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Sandtown is a children’s choir from Baltimore who was discovered  while performing with dc Talk several years ago and recently signed to Toby McKeehan’s Gotee Records. Composed of about 40 kids ranging in age from 8 to 14, all from the Sandtown neighborhood, the choir exists as a positive influence in the urban culture. A ten-minute documentary included on the CD offers a glimpse into Sandtown.

Their debut album, Based On a True Story,  follows a pattern of upbeat, well-produced urban pop anthems that celebrate family, friends, and God’s love. Standout songs include a piano-driven rendition of "America," opening block-rocker "Part of Me," and closer "Hear Me When I Pray." 

Missteps are very few. "Rescue Me" is a reverent ballad marred only by Out of Eden member Lisa Kimmey’s overdone vocal antics. Sandtown alone is enough to carry the song. Other guests include the Katinas, worship leader Israel Houghton, and McKeehan himself. 

The album’s most left-field song also features its best guest appearance. Michael W. Smith joins Sandtown on a cover of U2’s "Pride (In the Name of Love)". Hearing U2 reinvented with an urban children’s choir is a unique experience, but Sandtown pulls it off.

Sandtown is an extremely talented choir who is at their best when they are given the spotlight. Several of the guest appearances detract from the song and take the attention off the choir, but Sandtown alone is a powerful sound.

John Wilson 5/26/03