"Finally, A band to shed some "color" into the shallow-generic-greyness the 90's dared to call music! The Texas based quartet's members include: vocalist Chris Cann, drummer Van Robbins and childhood friends Chad Salls (bass) and Dean Truitt (guitar). COLORs dynamic songwriting breaks away from the all too worn themes of anger, confusion and frustration that have plagued our airwaves as of late, and spins their lyrics into a more positive light. COLORs triumphant debut begins with the ardent and anthemic title track ARE YOU WITH ME (as featured on MTVs The Real World). This song embodies the attitude and energy that permeates this album. NOT THE SAME: Dean Truitts explosive guitar intro sets the stage for this high-energy rock tune that tells the story of ones awakening to the incompatibility of his relationship through lyrics that are both intelligent and introspective.WHAT GOOD IS IT: an atmospheric song who's message encourages the building of ones inner strength and confidence. "What good is it to see things that aren't real, soon you will find what's holding you back is all in your mind."ALRIGHT: track 4 is both fluid and melodic. This song is a showcase for the softer side of Canns vocal abilities.SAY GOOD-BYE: This ballad screams "hit single" from the 1st strum of the guitar! The lyrics depict the necessary, yet positive ending to a relationship. The songs fluid melodies are hook-laden and the vocal performance is potent and unforgettable. TRICK OF THE LIGHT: A whimsical uptempo rocker about a femme fatale. This song reaks of flare and attitude!OUT OF ORDER: a killer track that boasts passionate vocals echoed by melancholy guitar melodies. The song has an intense vibe and brilliant lyrics...I love the play on words in the chorus.GOING MY WAY: a potently catchy rock tune with a variety of unique and intricate melodies. This song is full of energy and positivity.I FEEL SORRY: A very atmospheric and intense song who's lyrics delve into the guilt the narrator feels for burdening another with his problems. I KNOW: a climactic conclusion to an incredible album! The power and drive behind the music grows though out the song, breaking momentarily for the dream-like melodic bridge, then exploding into a finale that will leave you breathless!COLORs music casts an ambiance that is only cheapened by my failed attempts at description, it is something that truly must be experienced for yourself.....so do yourself a favor and buy ARE YOU WITH ME and hear for yourself!"
COLOR scores a grand slam with their debut album
C. J. Keller | Austin, TX USA | 09/13/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Color's debut album, "Are you With Me?" is an incredible first offering for the Austin, Texas group. Chad Salls has proven to be a songwriter of incredible depth, providing tight harmonies and multiple textures. It's almost too hard to pick favorites on this album. Definitely "Trick of the Light" is a standout and is the opener to their website. The album's title piece "Are you With Me?", "Say Goodbye" and "Alright" are top of the list as well. You can hear Salls tip his creative hat to the Beatles in "I Know, I Know"; the atmospheric orchestration is reminiscent of the Sgt. Pepper era Beatles. The only downside to the album (having heard the band in person) is not being able to hear Salls' amazing bass abilities. One of the most innovative players in the industry, he consistently produces intricate and melodic bass lines that should be heard better on the CD.
Chris Cann, co-writer on many of the songs, proves that not only can he turn a phrase, he can deliver the goods as lead singer. Dean Truitt shines throughout the album on lead guitar; Van Robbins ties it all together with alternatively rocking and soulful drumming. This is a strong first entry and, hopefully, just the first of many more to come."
Are You With Me? ... YES!!!
Lisa | San Diego, CA | 10/19/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Out of the five or so CD's I've bought in the past few weeks, this one is the best I've come across in awhile. Say Goodbye is my fave track and the CD is glued into my CD player. Are You With Me? and Trick of Light are also great songs. The lead vocals are amazing! A friend recommended that I buy this album, and I can really say that she was right on with this group! They ROCK!!"
Just COLOR
Dave the COLOR Fan | Springfeild (like "The Simpsons") | 09/22/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
""Every Antic ups the Ante [] Lend a Helping Hand [] Things are Getting Desperate [] and it's time to take a stand [] ARE YOU WITH ME?" - "Are you with me?" COLORThis is definatly one of the stand out songs on the title, and a great anthem to rally behind, for anything. Personally, I like all the songs, but I love "Are you With me?", "Alright", "Trick of the Light." This is a great band and I love their rock and roll sound, it isn't so far out that it's only for the punk rockers, and it's just "poppy" enough for many people, I think this group could fit into lots of people's CD cases, I know it's in mine, well, that's a lie, it's in my CD player.Thanks to whoever it was that IMed me randomly about this group. I ususally don't deal with people like that, but for some reason I went to the site, and well, I'm now a COLOR Fanatic."