Solo is the 2001 EP released by the popular Christian group dc Talk. It contains two solo songs from each of the three members of dc Talk and one song by the whole group, a live cover of U2's "40"; "40" lacks the polish of previous live dc Talk songs, such as those found on their live Welcome to the Freakshow album, and does not bode well for the future of dc Talk. However, the solo projects really seem to shine, and make up for the lack of performance by Toby, Mike, and Kevin together as one band.
Michael Tait and his new band, aptly named Tait, starts off the first two songs after "40" using his great, melodic voice that really shines in the band's recent radio hit, "All You Got", which talks about giving everything you have for the glory of God. Pete Stewart is excellent on the guitar as part of Tait.
Kmax sings the next two songs, "Return of the Singer" and "Be" These two are the highlight of Solo. "Return of the Singer" explains Kevin's experiences and love for the stage, while "Be" urges listeners to be themselves and not model their lives after anyone else. Kmax has a true poetic sense and his lyrics are deep and real.
Toby McKeehan provides the final two ditties on the record. They are heavy in rap interludes and heavy beats. His best performance is the song that first appeared on the Extreme Days movie soundtrack, cleverly titled, "Extreme Days"
Overall, Solo is a worthwhile attempt to keep dc Talk fans from straying from listening from their tunes, although it lacks the overall polish of some of the band's actual albums. That is to be expected from an album of this nature, though. With the solo albums out already, it seems as if getting Solo would be in vain. However, Solo is a great album to listen to when deciding which solo artist(s) best suits your tastes.
Mark's Score: 3.5/5
Other coverage for this album
ReAL Magazine 2001Reviewed by Josh L!Seven songs. Three artists. One band. But does 1 + 1 + 1 really equal solo? Is this a new dc Talk album, or an advertisement for something else? Maybe it's a little of both. The solo careers of the three main members of dc Talk have been whispered about for a few years. I swear I've heard rumors that "Kmax's album is coming out this fall" for the last three years now. Well whisper no more, it's…The Rebel Base 2001Reviewed by Josh HurstA brief recap: Dc Talk, one of Christian music's most beloved groups, it taking a hiatus and the three Talkers, Toby Mac, Kevin Max and Michael Tait, are each releasing solo albums. In an effort to continue to make money off of dc Talk while they are taking a break from the band, ForeFront Records has released a seven song EP, simply called Solo. The EP features three songs from each solo album,…The Phantom Tollbooth 2001Reviewed by Glenn McCartyThe recent hiatus taken by Christian music super group dc Talk was peculiar. There would be a one-year "intermission," during which time each member would complete a full-length album and release it under his own name. The structure heightens with the release of Solo: Special Edition by the trio. The album is released under the dc Talk moniker, yet contains individual efforts, leading one to…Similar sounding releases
1999SonicFloodSonicFlood
2001Kevin MaxStereotype Be
2002NewsboysThrive
2003TaitLose This Life
2004David Crowder BandThe Lime CD
2002Jars of ClayThe Eleventh HourMore from DC Talk
1997Welcome to the Freak Show
1995Jesus Freak
1994Free At Last Extended Play Remixes
1998Supernatural
1994Narrow is the Road (Video)
1995Jesus Freak The Single
