The title of this album begs the question, “what is Warren Barfield reaching for?” Musically, it seems to be a swampy ‘70s-rooted pop/rock/funk sound, heavy on throbbing rhythms and crisp-cut guitar lines. Barfield’s sophomore release finds the singer/songwriter delivering hook-laden tunes that emphasize his personal relationship with Jesus (as opposed to more broad-based comments on the world’s spiritual condition). Producer Marshall Altman’s punchy production helps things noticeably, embellishing the tracks with such touches as wah-wah guitar licks (on “Shadow”) and chunky organ chords (on “Head Held High”). Barfield comes through impressively as a vocalist, bringing to mind Third Eye Blind’s Stephan Jenkins and even (in flashes) Al Green. The predominant attitude here is gratitude, expressed earnestly in “I’ll Be Alright,” “Closer,” and the title tune. There’s a body-grabbing swing to many of these tracks, underscoring their God-centered message with sensuous grooves. If there’s any complaint to be made about Reach, it’s that Barfield avoids the struggle and sacrifice involved in walking with Christ. But with that caveat, it’s fair to say that Reach touches the right bases with little sign of strain.