| Written by David Wang, The Catholic Register,
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 This month, we have a whole set of new recordings to go through for your summer enjoyment.
Stellar Kart — Expect the Impossible
OK, this might not be the impossible, but it sure is fun. These songs have a punk/pop attitude that makes it hard not to break out into a smile. Highly energetic and accessible, I am sure that Stellar Kart will make new fans on this effort. If you like groups like Hawk Nelson, songs like “Automatic” and “Innocent” will grip you immediately. “Jesus Loves You” and “Pray” show that Stellar Kart is not just about the party atmosphere but have a serious spiritual side. Recommended highly.
Pillar — For the Love of the Game
Pillar once again satisfies with a solid hard rock sound that pounds relentlessly through most of these cuts. Although not as intense as their earlier rap-core sound, this is nonetheless not for the faint of heart. Clever lyrics in the title cut and songs like “Turn it Up” incorporate spirituality without preachiness. The only caveat is a certain sameness to the feel of these songs. However, “Smiling down” provides a great ballad to provide some needed variety. Solid effort that should satisfy fans of music with a harder edge.
Starfield — I will go
One of the rising stars in Canada’s Christian music scene, this band once again goes back to worship for its inspiration. Something, however, rings hollow on this album for me. There is no doubt about the band’s sincerity on these cuts but there is nothing here that hasn’t been heard on Christian radio in the past, in my humble opinion. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with this one. If you are a fan of worship music, however, you may still want to check this one out.
Hawk Nelson — ... is my friend! B0011Z6926
Canada’s own Hawk Nelson supplies some power punk riffs combined with more of a spiritual bent in the lyrics than in previous albums, where the most you could say was that the band provided positive lyrics. “You have what I Need” and “Friend like That” kick off the album with Hawk Nelson’s usual catchy hooks. However, the last song, “I Still Miss You,” about a grandmother’s death leaves no room for doubt as to where these lads place their trust. Another recommended recording. My kids love it.
Avalon — Another Place, Another Time
Long time readers of this column have noticed that I am not a big fan of slick adult contemporary albums that seem to be so generically produced in Nashville these days. However, this album of covers of some of the biggest hits in Christian music over the past two decades works in a great way. Even if you are familiar with these classics, the new arrangements by Avalon brings new life into songs such as “El Shaddai” and “For the Sake of the Call.” If you only have recently discovered Christian music, there is no better place to see what you have missed.
Delirious — Kingdom of Comfort
Hailing from the UK, Delirious continues to represent the Brits in the contemporary Christian market. The band produces another consistent effort but this is also a weakness. There is a real sense that the listener has already heard it all before. If you are a fan, then songs like “God is smiling” will continue to please. Lyrically, the album is strong dealing with social justice issues. However, the band seems to have hit a bit of a rut musically and really needs to reinvent itself, perhaps in the vein of “Give What You’ve Got” which is the highlight of the album.
Superchick — Rock What You Got
I am a big Superchick fan. With their positive lyrics emphasizing the value and self-esteem of every person, the band addresses a growing need among today’s teens. However, on this album, where many of the songs seem to emulate Gwen Stefani and the latest Avril Lavigne, I am disappointed. Unless you are determined to find a Christian equivalent to these artists for your youth, I would suggest checking out this band’s earlier efforts.
Canada Rocks
Canadian Christian music has grown in leaps and bounds recently. This compilation is a great way to check out this growth. Featuring cuts by Thousand Foot Krutch, Hawk Nelson and Hello Kelly as well as discounts on the recordings of these artists, this is a great way to support our national Christian music industry.
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