While some various-artist compilations succeed in including some underrated songs by a diverse assembly of artists, many accomplish nothing more than providing a collection of radio hits that everyone has heard many times before. Since many recent compilations have been nothing more than advertisements, True Tunes 2000 was a breath of fresh air. It is genuinely a good piece of art.
True Tunes features seventeen little-known artists, most of whom I was unfamiliar with before purchasing the album. A few of the artists featured include veteran artists Bill Mallonee and Vigilantes of Love, worship leader Justin Fox, up-and-coming rock band Sundry, and Lynda Randle, the sister of dc Talk's Michael Tait.
Musically, this record is very diverse, featuring styles ranging from hard rock to gospel to folk. Wide Awake kicks off the album with a catchy, raw Southern-flavored rock song called "Hero." Justin Fox's "Take Me Over" is honest and worshipful, while Siler's Bald contributes the uplifting "Got Me Smiling." Other album highlights include Third Day's Mac Powell teaming up with Sundry for the rock/rap "Least of These" and the classic hymn "Solid Rock" performed by pop rock outfit Daniel's Window.
Granted, there are a few low points on the album. Lynda Randle's "He is God" misses the mark lyrically, and on Jason and the Gmen's take on the classic spiritual song "Here's One," the music does not really fit the lyrics very well. All in all, however, True Tunes 2000 is a good, diverse compilation disc, and a wonderful introduction to some talented artists that you may never have heard before.
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Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2001Reviewed by Darryl A. ArmstrongTrue Tunes 2000, the latest compilation album from True Tunes Records and Rhythm House Records, starts off with a solid alt-rocker entitled "Hero" by Wide Awake. Following is Bill Mallonee & V.O.L. with "She Walks on Roses" from their most recent effort and probably one of their strongest, Audible Sigh. This compilation from True Tunes and Rhythm House says a lot for the quality of artists these…
