Reviewed by Tony Cummings

The bizarre controversy that has seen these Little Rock, Arkansas, newcomers step perilously close to apostasy as they tied themselves up in knots denying they're a Christian band. But what of the music on their million-selling debut? Despite HM magazine's perculiar suggestion that it sounds like "Bonnie Rait fronting the early CCM rock band Servant," this is actually an intriguing blend of influences with Amy Lee's voice soaring hauntingly over explosive bursts of nu metal guitar and elegant piano and strings to create a sound that is an anthemic goth mutant of considerable originality. Bassist/songwriter Ben Moody was being rather disingenuous when he suggested to a Guardian reporter that he was "not ashamed of my spiritual beliefs but I in no way incorporate them into this band." There are many traces of an unfocused spirituality and message of hope ala Creed, in between the passages of dark despair. And one song, "Tourniquet" ALMOST makes it as a full on Christian song. But sadly, it's now clear that there's more fog than illumination in this talented band's music.

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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