Not Ashamed by Newsboys (CD, Jan-1995, Chordant Music Group)

I bought Not Ashamed for my kids actually, but I previewed some of their songs before doing so. I am not really a fan of CCM, I find most of it derivative and uninspiring. With the exception of some of the 70s, early 80s artists (Randy Stonehill, Larry Norman, Keith Green, DeGarmo & Key, e.g.), Christian artists are quite homogenous, as if style was an affront to the Almighty. I understand this thinking, however, I think it is somewhat misled.

The Newsboys impressed me, though, with a unique style that tends toward formulaic at times, but still fulfills its purpose to proclaim the Message in a trendy, up-pop, almost dance-groove way. It is a true alternative to the whispery-soft singers of Christian radio.

Listening to Not Ashamed, I can get whiffs of the 80s British synth invasion ala New Order, maybe even a little Cure. But their sound isn't dated, just influenced. Lyrically speaking, I think they are good - not excellent; these aren't lyrics that will grab you and poetically explode in your mind. They aren't horrible or milquetoast either, at least when I can hear them. Enunciation or clarity seem to be lacking at times.

I recommend this CD to anyone who wonders where the good contemporary Christian music has gone.

This was a gift for my son; he was seeking rock band music but I was not interested in inviting trashy lyrics into the household. Here was our compromise and it is well worth it.

Some critics suggest that Christian music is simply "sanitized" version of secular rock n' roll but we disagree. The music has variety to it and is tolerable to listen to considering we are entering the teenage years.

Since this purchase, he has received another Newsboys CD and enjoys it even more. He tells me one of the songs is duplicated on this album and the 2008 album but he does not mind.