The band name and album title from this California quartet sparks the interest; the principals involved provide the dough. Former head Altar Boy and solo artist Mike Stand lead the group that also former Allies bassist Matthew Chapman and newcomers _ (guitar) and _ (drums) through a seven-song, 31-minute EP of postpunk guitar rock. If that description sounds like the Altar Boys, you're on the right track, but Sunday perhaps kicks a little harder and is a bit edgier than Forever Mercy, the 'Boys' last studio offering.
The five standard compositions(the closing two tracks are mainly rock instrumentals with repeated, short refrains) bring back the uniqueness of Stand's songwriting -- mainly upbeat and positive, never afraid of proclaiming God's name, and with an acute understanding of God's grace and the need for our daily commitments to His ways. "Give" and "This," the first two tracks, are perfect examples of how Stand encourages and challenges; "Surround Me" is a compelling cry out for grace in a restrictive world that recalls the 'Boys' earlier works.
The most satisfying musical moments on Sunday are also the most energetic. "Paint This Place" employs a low, driving rhythm with a guitar counter melody that leads into a catchy, anthemic chorus and "I Don't Hear the Question," which lament for the lack of critical thinkers in today's society, has a powerfully dynamic quality that climaxes with an intense dual-guitar ending that features a standout solo. It's during this type of all-out rock that Stand's urgent vocals, as always, communicate the loudest and resonate the deepest. At his best, Mike Stand makes us feel it.
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