The entire record features some of the more talented, yet underappreciated members of the modern Christian music community. Starting out this disc with EDL's Tedd Cookerley, and having former members of bands like Plankeye and the Prayer Chain, as well as SF59 (Jason Martin) were wise choices, as they help to reinvent the vibe of this series (or compilation, or whatever it is), and serve to let folks know this isn't the Browbeats of the past. But like the former, Mike Knott appears here, doing everything from guitar/bass to singing and screaming - especially alongside Scott Silletta in "Getting Normal." Also a staple is Gene Eugene, especially with his stellar voice on the rootsy "Out of Time." It was cool to hear the memorable "Ricki Racer," and its remix, featuring Knott, and then an unnamed female singer, respectively. Also included here is a "rock version" of the Aunt Bettys' "Tattoo." Jason Martin's performance ("Just Wanna Be You") is a little more energetic guitar-wise than you'd find on a Starflyer record, and his vocals are less distinguishable, but heck, he does a nice job. In fact, I don't think there's a dud on the CD.
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Steven S. BaldwinFor fans of the previous Browbeats collection, this new album is a rude awakening. The more gentle, acoustic vibes of the previous collection have been mostly shoved aside for Michael Knott's signature brand of LSU-style rock'n' roll here. In fact, this collection sounds and feels most like the brash rock of an Aunt Betty's album, particularly their last one, Ford Supersonic, which continued…The Phantom Tollbooth 1998Reviewed by Josh SpencerFive years ago an album called Brow Beat--Unplugged Alternative featured some of the best Christian alternative bands around doing acoustic originals. They were (still are) some of the coolest songs I've ever heard. Now, Michael Knott has resurrected the name for a sequel, while changing the concept quite a bit. This time we are treated to a number of the best Christian alternative personalities…Similar sounding releases
1998Aunt BettysFord Supersonic
2000SundryThe Toughest No-Brainer Yet
2002The ZiggensThe Ziggens
1998Pearl JamYield
2002PlankeyeWings to Fly
1998BleachStatic
