It would be difficult to overstate the importance of Resurrection Band in the history of Christian rock. As the hard rock music ministry outreach of Chicago's Jesus People USA since 1972, they have always been more interested in work and ministry than in flash and trend. They've stretched the boundaries of what's acceptable in Christian music. They've tied their music ministry to social and spiritual causes. As part of JPUSA, they've reached out and ministered to the homeless, the hungry, the abused, the lost and broken. For their 25th anniversary, Resurrection Band celebrates with an acoustic retrospective, Ampendectomy. With fresh arrangements, the band covers all the bases, from a pained "Broken Promises" (from their label debut, Awaiting Your Reply) to "Across These Fields" (from their last, the concept album Lament). It's laudable that this is no "reunion" record--every member has been with the group since that first record (even the "new guy," bassist Roy Montroy, was on the first record). Although fans will never be truly served until the whole Rez catalogue is reissued on CD (a big box set would be nice), Ampendectomy will do for now. It's a welcome note from old friends, and a delightful way to remember the old times.
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Tony LaFianzaRez Band has joined the many bands with an unplugged review of their past great records. Glenn and Stu pick up the acoustic guitars first for "Lovespeak." The groove is there, and then Glenn and Wendi come in with a gravelly, pure rock duet. Glenn and Wendi still sound choice after twenty-five years and fifteen albums. The band has picked out some good songs for this effort, including "Rain…Similar sounding releases
1999Glenn KaiserTime Will Tell
1998Michael EnglishGospel
1996Gary ChapmanShelter
1993Michael AndersonSaints and Sinners
2000Jon BlackstoneNot Dressed for the Occasion
1995Rex CarrollThe Rex Carroll Sessions
