Reviewed by Peter Bate

No sooner do dc Talk (temporarily?) exit stage left than this red hot New Orleans five-piece burst through the curtains, sounding every inch potential stadium fillers. Their hook-filled tracks have been endorsed by both Kevin Max and Michael Tait along with our own Martin Smith, but those expecting safe, teen-friendly alternative pop are in for a surprise. Because for every catchy melody there's a tasty Fender Rhodes-drenched jazz progression or, more commonly, a hard-as-nails rap barrage. Think what Rage Against The Machine would sound like if they discovered reggae, The Beatles and programming and you're still miles off. Killer opener "One Time" has radio hit written all over it with twin vocalists Adam LaClave and Paul Meany swapping ragga, harmony and rap lines to outstanding effect. Other arms-in-the-air highlights, pinned down by Prince producer David Leonard, include the bouncy "Whitehorse" and "Osmosis Land", featuring the band's manifesto lyric: "Bring the swing, let my God erupt". While it will appeal to a wide cross section, the group's variety could also prove their downfall. LaClave and Meany's lyrics manage an earthy humility but time will tell whether they keep their feet on the ground amid the hyped up world of CCM. If they can, the sky's the limit.

Also reviewed in CR65:
'Kaleidoscope Superior' was first reviewed in CR59 by Peter Bate. Now, re-issued by Fierce!, this is my turn. I have to say that I can only concur with Mr Bate's comments. This band has the potential to go to the very top! They already have the goods. It's all up to you guys out there. You put bands where the are - deserved or undeserved. Everything is here: reggae, grunge, rap, jazz and dance loops - all rolled into one superbly written, produced and executed album. I love the atmosphere of this album: its ponderous moments, its in-your-face attitude, its funky heart and its harmonies. The only thing I would disagree with Peter Bate on is the score. Really, you need this album. Trust me, I have a Doctor! Imaginative, brilliant and exciting. Now how often can you get all that from one band, huh?
10 squares
Andrew Privett

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