Impressive First Album
06/15/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is an impressive first album for this Denver based Christian band. Although they describe their sound as "electro/synthpop/new wave," it is not that easily categorized. The music tends to be high energy & upbeat, yet it has a Moody Blues-ish quality as well. The vocals are first-rate: strong & innovative. Despite the complexity of the music, the message never gets lost. This is an album that energizes and inspires without being heavy-handed or preachy. It really is deserving of all five stars!"
Could be the Antidote You're Looking For
Nightowl | Jacksonville, FL USA | 03/17/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I host a Christian alternative rock show on WIOJ radio in Jacksonville, meaning I hear my share of blistering guitars cranked up to eleven, piled atop thundering drums and raking, wailing vocals. And while I never tire of that, there are times when I need a pallot-cleanser: an antidote to all ear-splitting racket. Last spring, I was sent an airplay copy of New Wave of Joy. I took it for a spin in the CD player of my car and was instantly convicted. Why? One word: warmth.
One of the many reasons technopop groups of the 1980s lost credibility was the cold, mechanical quality of their music. Situation breaks the mold with warm, very human-sounding vocals: not the whiny, milquetoast crooning that infected so much of the so-called New Wave. Yes, there are layers of synthesizers and electronic percussion, but they're arranged in a non-cloying way, as was so often the case with 80s electropop aggregates. Situation's songs are delightfully bouncy, melodic and catchy, as with the winsome "Don't Go," and the sparkling "Blue Skies." They do show some techno tendencies with the irresitably dancable "I Turned." And despite its mild silliness, "Jesus Boy, Jesus Girl," is probably the most likeable gem on this CD. Fans will find bonuses in the remixes of "Starry Eyes," and "I Turned." As I am fond of saying, listen without prejudice.
"
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1