STYLE: Rock RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 17667-11184 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Simon Eden
When something dies, occasionally something even more amazing rises up. Out of the ashes of the cremated Scarecrow And Tinman comes Cheer Up Charlie with almost the same line up. Chris Padgett - lead vocalist of Scarecrow And Tinman - has gone, but Bradley DeRosia now fronts the new line up. Thankfully the insane hairdos have also gone. Jason Kopp (drums) and Seth White (guitar) are still in with new additions Greg Polson (guitar) and Jon Daws (bass guitar). From the start, a sense of humour pervades uncompromising rock with a passion to connect young people to Jesus. The pinnacle of their former life was playing at World Youth Day for Pope John Paul II and three million people. How Cheer Up Charlie can top that is another question - maybe heralding the return of Jesus? They do describe themselves in the words of Willy Wonker - "We are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams." Even the stunning artwork portrays an enchanted fantasy land. The music is mainstream rock that doesn't surprise, but is played with impeccable skill and talent. However, the strength of the lyrics and vocals carries a ministry that pervades the soul and makes Charlie more of a mission with a refined and raw message than just another band. Lives will be impacted. Long live the resurrected.
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