Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

With 'Stereotype B', Kevin Max unleashed a post dc Talk solo career that saw him daring to push back his musical frontiers into a creativity that matched his desire to be a true artist. Commercially less successful than his two bandmates, he continues to make the most interesting music of the trio. While Tait's band efforts have been tame and lame and TobyMac's two solo albums have seen him reapply for the role of the world's premier Christian rapper, Max's journey hasn't been so obvious. Moving from Nashville to Los Angeles, he played the lead in the Rice Webber musical Joseph, playing clubs and courting record labels. He also threw himself into making an album that has more of a mainstream feel after the lacklustre demos released as the 'Between The Fence And The Universe' EP last year. Whilst not as avant garde as 'Stereotype B', 'The Imposter' is no less interesting. Thematically Max is exploring the dual angels of our souls and the battle within ourselves between good and evil. I observe that it seems to be a struggle which is mirrored in the artist's own relationship to his music and its purpose where Max is still trying to find his own place in the world. For these ears, the album is one of the best from 2005 and more accessible than his solo releases so far. Packed with punchy songs, strong melodies, intriguing lyrics and great production, all topped with Max's amazing voice. It's a powerful package. Standouts include the opening salvo of the high energy art rock of "Confessional Booth" and the title cut which immediately get your attention. There's so much good stuff here that I'll just mention that I love the vibe of "Jumpstart Your Electric Heart" and "Stay" sounds like something Morrisey could have written and sung! After his version of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah", Max demonstrates his deft talent for selecting cool cover versions with his rendition of Dylan's "When He Returns". The album is wonderfully rewarding, growing better with every listen.

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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