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The Promise Artist:  Plus One Label:  143 Records/Atlantic Recording Corporation Time:  12 tracks, 44:32 min	Samples The Promise

In keeping with the mainstream pop culture trend of ‘boy bands,’ the Christian music industry has offered their version of ‘N Sync.  Plus One has everything they need to make it in the competitive music world.  They’ve got the look.  They’ve got the smooth as honey vocals and incredibly tight and cultivated harmonies.  They’ve got the cheerfully ambiguous music.  And they’ve definitely got the backing.

The five members range from ages 17 to 22 and come from various parts of the country.  Their growing success is due mainly to the people and corporations involved in their promotion and music composition.  With the likes of producer David Foster (Celine Dion, Faith Hill, Toni Braxton) and production team members Dow and Brad (LFO), Eric Foster White (Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys) and a host of other talented and experienced producers, it’s no wonder Plus One has already been flung into the industry spotlight.

The Promise is a collection of upbeat pop songs written by some of the best in the business, including Stephanie Lewis, Dan Muckala, and Reed Vertelney.  Musically, the release has a definite compatibility with others in the mainstream market.  Vocally sweet, Plus One has the Backstreet Boys sound that producers hope will bring them increased success with their target market.

Lyrically, however, like other would-be stars before them, there is much room for improvement.  In keeping with the tradition of pop music, ‘my soul’ and ‘my heart’ were mentioned in inordinate amounts.  “God Is In This Place” features weak lyrics that take away from some of the other tracks.  Though the message is good, the lyrics tend toward the ‘cheesy.’  “Written On My Heart,” is one of the best tracks on the album.  Lyrically tight, it features strong vocals and pop music’s signature harmonies. 

“Soul Tattoo” is another well written and well performed song.  “Last Flight Out” speaks of the fear of losing some one you love.  While the song has definite potential, there are points where the emotional energy  necessary for such a song, is simply lacking.  “Run To You” features an annoying digital effect similar to Cher’s “Believe.”

The album winds its way through both good and bad songs, finishing up with a soulful ballad reminiscent of All-4-One.  Overall, The Promise is a decent debut for a group that has talent, potential, and the youthfully delicious look sure to evoke all the teenage emotion that screaming middle school girls are capable of expending. 

Kerry Maffeo 6/17/2000