There are many artists out there who put on tremendous live shows but never seem to quite capture that energy on a studio recording. The Canadian band, Hokus Pick, is one case. Their first major release, Pick It Up, offered several outstanding songs ("Sofa Logic," "Turn Around In Circles") but generally failed to generate the same intensity as their concerts.
The new release, Brothers from Different Mothers, is a totally different story. With a new producer, Mark Heimermann, this album has a smooth, polished sound but also brims with energy, excitement, and fun. Songs like "Bye Bye Bye" and "No Conversation" rock with a hint of grittiness and demand playback at loud volumes. The ballads are also outstanding. "Safe Assumption" just seems to ooze out of the speakers, and "I Believe," a duet with Rich Mullins, has a nice folk feel to it. The other songs bounce between several styles including a hilarious blues/metal number called "Love Stuff." However, despite the variety in styles, the album still has a feeling of uniformity about it.
Lyrically, there is no doubt that these individuals have a deep love of God. The songs are predominantly sung from a first-person perspective which makes them seem almost autobiographical. Emphasizing the personal aspects of faith rather than any deep theological insights, these songs speak directly and simply.
This album is highly recommended to any lovers of music with an alternative bent to it.
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1996NewsboysTake Me To Your Leader
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