Audio Adrenaline

Item: Hit Parade
Author: Adam L.

Hit Parade

(2001)

Reviewed by Adam L.

Discogs Apple Music

Label ForeFront RecordsReAL Magazine2001

modern rock pop rock rockabilly

Are you as tired as I am of seeing another group that hasn't been around for more than five years putting out a greatest hits album? The label hardly seems deserved, with few exceptions. However, there have been few bands in the past 20 years of contemporary Christian music that have had as much success as Audio Adrenaline. Audio A has been around since the very beginning of the mass marketing of CCM, and they've thrived. Their upbeat pop rock music with the right mix of Christian sensibility has stood the test of time in one of the most brutal markets for any artist to have continued success.

In my opinion, it's the right time to release a greatest hits album for the group. They've become one of the top-selling bands in CCM today. Their style has become a bit edgier than their first releases, but the important thing is that they have never strayed from the focus that made their music so appealing to Christian teens in the first place. They are Christians. They're not perfect, but they know that the due credit for their success in music and in life goes to the One who gave them the talents. The way they praise Him with their music is an example that more bands should look to, regardless of musical style.

Now to the album itself. Hit Parade is a well put-together album, with a wide range of their earlier hits like 'Big House' from Don't Censor Me to the newer, edgier fare from Some Kind of Zombie and their newest studio release, Underdog.

Hit Parade flows well, with one solid track after another. Fans of Audio A will notice the new additions to the catalog, 'Will not Fade' and 'One Like You.' As was the case in PFR's greatest hits album, these songs fit in wonderfully, and also help showcase the band's growth as songwriters since the early days.

Overall, not much needs to be said about this disc, especially if you know the band -- except if you haven't already purchased it, do it now! It's a great addition to anyone's collection, and the new songs won't disappoint the old fans.