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Posted by Andrew Greenhalgh
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11:22 AM Tuesday, 25 September 2007 |
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Despite the deep roots of faith and Christianity held by the South’s Bible belt, country music has continued to be a tough sell to a contemporary Christian crowd. Perhaps some of that reluctance has to do with the continued inclusion of faith among mainstream performers that churn out hits like “Jesus Take the Wheel” and “Somebody Must Be Praying For Me” that fill those roles. The answer is anybody’s guess. Yet, many have tried and failed within the Christian bubble. Performers like Paul Overstreet and TBN stalwart Del Way have found a very limited audience and the genre has been without any solid contenders for some time. CO3 aims to change that with the release of their debut album, Determined.
Comprised of Dave Romero, a former worship pastor, and Chad Little, whose claim to fame is having been the bandleader and writer for a young, pre-“American Idol” Carrie Underwood, the duo shows promise. Just a quick listen will show that the two artists clearly have talent. Their voices harmonize with ease and possess that critical element of twang so essential to country music. Instrumentally they hold their own as well, offering up some solid tracks. Yet, for all that is good, something just seems to be missing. The production lacks fullness and leaves the occasionally preachy lyrics lost in the air.
The title track sets the stage for CO3’s mission, with a declaration of faith and belief that will not be compromised. “Godspeed” instead opts for a prayer for safety and peace, set to a toe-tapping drive that showcases some of the duo’s solid melodies. “Be Still” slows things up and is reminiscent of everyday fare from XYZ southern gospel group while “Good News” is a rocking track that, lyrics aside, would actually fit well into today’s pop-styled country market. “Beyond Praise” again brings the duo’s vocals to fore but suffers from the aforementioned lack of fullness while employing some conventional elements.
The group takes a step forward with tracks like “Well Done” and the
hope-filled “Dreamer” which, while employing some conventional lyrical
content, finally find that hallowed country ground. “It’s You” brings
some Eagles-influence to the fore while “I’ll Go” simply falls flat.
Sadly, uninspiring is the word for the ballad “He Speaks” yet “Step Out
on Faith” does in fact step things up a bit by focusing more on the
vocals. “Well Done” rounds out the set list and is indicative of the
whole album as it falls more or less so-so.
Christian country music fans are going to have to wait a little longer
for that great breakthrough of a solely faith-based group. CO3 is a
talented duo but would be well served to find a greater foothold that
they can boost themselves up from. Marching away from well-worn
lyrical content couldn’t hurt as well. While some will enjoy the sound
found here on Determination, many will find more to enjoy in the recent
offering from Rascal Flatts wannabe’s 33Miles. For the rest of us,
we’ll just have to keep on keepin’ on with our old Johnny Cash records.
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