The Sungazers are new talent to hit independent label Wounded Records. From the opening sounds of their debut release Not This Window Of Time, the listener is given the promise of great things ahead. However, what unfolds in the following sixteen tracks doesn't quite hold up.

The ethereal sounds of "Kyrie" create a theatrical vibe that soon gives way to a pop/garage rock platform in "At Your Mercy." A simplistic drum beat and an out-of-place keyboard throw off the raw rock sound, giving the music a schizophrenic feel as it's not sure if it wants to be contemporary pop or indie rock. The remaining tracks have moments of unique arrangements but ultimately fall flat more often than not. Frequent sour notes from the lead vocals and poor production only do more harm to the already haphazard songwriting.

Lyrically, the Sungazers hearts are in the right place. A God-centered focus is common throughout the record, helping to redeem what is otherwise a disappointing effort. The Sungazers show promise from time to time on the record by attempting new things. However, the overall vibe of the record, stylistically, may be over a decade too late. Perhaps with some more refining and some professional production guidance, the Sungazers will really have something going for them in the next window of time.

- Review date: 5/22/04, written by John DiBiase