All Star United - Smash Hits

Friday 1st December 2000
All Star United - Smash Hits
All Star United - Smash Hits

STYLE: Rock
RATING 7 7 7 7 7 7 7
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 2941-3356
LABEL: Essential 8306106672
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1


Reviewed by Dan Raywood

As there were only two ASU albums (1997's 'All Star United' and 1998's 'International Anthems Of The Human Race') before the band were dropped by Essential, it's got to be said that a compilation like this one, because it sports four new tracks (including an acoustic version of "Saviour Of My Universe") will appeal to All Star United fans. Imagine though that you come to this CD as a new punter having never previously heard Ian Eskelin and co. What does it sound like? Well, we kick off with a collection of upbeat Brit pop sounding efforts that all so occasionally could even be classed with the current fad for supposed skate punk. However, what confused me is that half way through this album we are then treated to a complete change in style, such as "Theme From Summer" which would be better treated to an S Club 7 fan. The music is generally what would be heard on American mainstream radio which could be promising if this band were to ever go into secular music. The songs do seem to vary in their meaning too, the worship base fell in with "Thank You, Goodnight" and "Saviour Of My Universe", while "Superstar" seemed intent on name-dropping every band that they have ever heard of.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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