The Phantom Tollbooth
 
I Want to be Like You 
Artist: FFH 
Label: Essential Records 
Length:12 tracks/47 minutes
"We do what we do because we have been given a burden to reach as many people for Jesus as we can, as quickly as possible." These words, written by the members of the band FFH, are contained in the liner notes of their debut CD I Want to be Like You. They clearly state the purpose of this group of three men and one woman; to that end, they have produced a CD full of songs that draw the listener closer to the Father while at the same time exhibiting a playfulness that might even bring a smile to His face.
 
What makes this project so much fun is its varying styles. FFH hasn't locked itself into one particular kind of music. While most of the songs here are typical CCM pop, there are a few that point to a potential to break out of this stereotypical mold and give us something that is clearly different. From the acoustic rock feel of "One of These Days" to the praise and worship (and tight harmonies) of "I Want to be Like You" and "Power in the Blood," there is enough variety on this project to suggest even better things to come.
 
"I'm Alright," a song about trusting in God even when trouble comes our way, showcases the fine vocal talent of Jennifer Deibler, the lone female member of the group.  It's an amusing, funky number with an alternative rock feel.
Because I'm alright
Trouble may find me
But it's not gonna keep me down
'Cause I'll hold on tight
To the Father who loves me
He likes having me around
Yeah, He loves me and He cares for me
And so I'll be alright.
Another departure from typical CCM fare is "Big Fish," a song about the trouble we get ourselves into when we don't follow God's leading in our lives.
Are you in the big fish
Are you sitting in the belly of a world gone mad
Have you turned your back on His wish
His will for your life, have you made Him sad
Do you want to get out of the big fish
Listen to God and follow His plan
And you won't be part of the main dish
He'll spit you out onto dry land
Spit you out onto dry land.
What makes this song work is its four part harmonies. Although carried along by instrumentation, it has the feel of an acappella piece and the group acquits itself nicely with harmonies that are clean and flawless.
 
While not for everyone, the music of FFH is for those who like acoustic rock with nice harmonies interspersed with a variety of other styles and sprinkled with a good dose of humor. It's pleasant on the ears and good for the soul.
 
Janet Friesen (7/14/99)