May 2001 introduced us to the power hitting moody sounds of The Benjamin Gate. Straight from South Africa, the quintet quickly became known for their more unique sound and presence. Their debut album ["untitled"] became a favorite of the year's new artists and the CCM scene welcomed the group with open arms. In just a little more than a year since their debut release, The Benjamin Gate offers a second helping of Gate goodness with Contact.
At first listen it's clear the band is already headed in a slightly different direction. Not exactly the leap that Skillet made from their self-titled grunge record to the electronic rock of Hey You - I Love Your Soul, Contact introduces a less aggressive approach than their debut. This is evident in more radio friendly pop opener "Lift Me Up." "Need" and "Do What You Say" are two tight rock songs reflecting similar sounds to previous Gate recordings, and serving as significant album highlights. The addictive twist known as "Overkill" uses an infectious bass beat to break open the track forming another highlight as lead vocalist Adrienne's soft vocals glide through the song's opening. The relevant and all too easy to relate to message of worrying too much will hit home with the listener making "Overkill" all that much easier to listen to.
"The Way You Are" is a good praise song that has thankfully been updated from its six minute plus long length to a more listening friendly, less repetitive pop rock song. Unfortunately, not all the songs made a smooth transition from the prerelease to the final and regretfully "The Calling" is Contact's greatest casualty. It's original guitar-driven intro has been replaced by a watered down radio friendly opener. However, in an attempt for redemption, the original version has been tacked onto the end of the record tucked away behind "Fall Away."
The Benjamin Gate release an even stronger album with Contact than their impressive debut. Although not perfect, Contact is one of the best modern rock albums of 2002. Don't miss this one on July 2nd.
- Review date: 6/12/02 (updated 6/25/02), written by John DiBiase of Jesusfreakhideout.com
|
|
NEEDTOBREATHE's Sold Out Red Rocks Performance Set to Stream Globally May 19 Wed, 27 Mar 2024 14:25:00 EST |
Hezekiah Walker Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Love Fellowship Tabernacle Wed, 27 Mar 2024 14:15:00 EST |
Alex Henry Foster Announces New Album, "Kimoyo" Wed, 27 Mar 2024 13:55:00 EST |
Barbara Mandrell's 'Precious Memories: 20 Hymns and Gospel Classics' Tops Christian Albums Chart Wed, 27 Mar 2024 13:15:00 EST |
Patrick Mayberry Earns First No. 1 At Radio With Psalm 23-Inspired "Lead On Good Shepherd" Tue, 26 Mar 2024 15:10:00 EST |
Atlanta, GA's Grungepunks To Release "The Fall Blues EP" Tue, 26 Mar 2024 15:00:00 EST |
Ryan Stevenson Delivers Summertime Vibes with "Just As You Are" Tue, 26 Mar 2024 13:30:00 EST |
Demi-Leigh Tebow to release debut book this August Mon, 18 Mar 2024 21:20:38 +0000 |
LIFELINE CHILDREN’S SERVICES, GRUPO NELSON PUBLISHERS CO-HOST BOOK LAUNCH AND SIGNING FOR “WHOSE AM I?” Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:49:00 +0000 |
EEM’s Bibles for Kids Initiative to Provide 570,000 Free Bibles to Children & Teens in 2024 Mon, 04 Mar 2024 22:33:43 +0000 |