Music Minute

There's a lot of great new stuff out this week in Christian music, and I'm here to tell you all about it, but I don't know if I'll make it in 60 seconds! We've got tons of variety this time - don't be afraid to give a listen to stuff you don't think you'd like, and don't worry if you don't like it all!

What's brand new: May 27 releases include new CDs from TobyMac, Joy Electric, Article One, Since October, and Say No More.

What we like:
• Alive & Transported: TobyMac brings it home when he puts on a live show, and this album is no exception. Energetic and full of your favorites, this iTunes Music Store exclusive comes with 21 songs and 3 bonus videos. We like "Ignition (Live)" — a mixture of hip-hop, funky dance-hall beats, and a touch of grungy guitar doesn't sound like it would work, but it does!



• JoyElectric's new album My Grandfather, the Cubist is for you old-schoolers out there who looove '80s synth-pop. Synthesizers don't get used much any more, but back in the day, they defined '80s pop music. Joy Electric combines 'em with a poppy, snappy sound that's a little strange at first but quickly becomes irresistible. Check out "Draw for Me, MC Escher," and while you're at it, find out about MC Escher.





• Fans of P.O.D. will love Bradenton, FL rockers Since October. Listen to them while you're mowing the lawn and you'll be done before you know it. Check out "Guilty" — you won't be sorry!



• "This is Our Way" from L.A. rockers Say No More is the best song we've heard all week. Their sound reminds us of Forever the Sickest Kids ... power pop that is just a tiny bit nerdy (but in a good way) and sounds familiar and new all at the same time.



What we're looking forward to:
Above the Golden State. The album doesn't release until July, but we found their site today looking for new stuff and don't want to forget them! Three reasons we're looking forward to this album: 1. Portland-west-coast-alternative-rock sound—sounds good! 2. There's a bear on their MySpace picture posing with the band. 3. Band member names are listed on MySpace as "Michael, Tim, Brook and Sea Bass." (Who's who is a mystery. Did someone's mama name him Sea Bass? Is that the bear?) Seriously, what's not to like? You can check out their single "Sound of Your Name" right now at the iTunes Music Store.



What we don't like: Stale chips, clammy hands, and food that sticks in your teeth.