The Phantom Tollbooth

Kiss Me (single)
Artist: Sixpence None the Richer
Label: Squint
Time: 4 tracks/13:51minutes
 
In a rare move for the Christian music marketplace, Sixpence None the Richer has put out not only a single but a single with both a B-side and a previously rare bonus track.

Also uncharacteristic of all marketplaces, the B-side is really good. Starting off with the radio remix of "Kiss Me," which I find more enjoyable then the original, the single seems just like any other single, with a remix and an original version of the song, which happens to be the second track. The radio remix contains a fuller sound than the original, with some additional echoes on the chorus and other added layers to the sound.  "Kiss Me" is a classic pop song about a true love relationship that anyone who has been in love will be able to identify with.
 
But the real gems on this release are the second half. "Sad but True" highlights Leigh Nash's angelic voice over crunch guitars and has a little more gusto than "Kiss Me." Originally on the limited edition vinyl release of the self-titled album, "Sad but True" has a storng rock sound that is a real contrast to "Kiss Me." The final track is a live version of "Kiss Me" where cello is a nice addition that really rounds out the song.
 
This release is a worthy addition to the collection of any fan of Sixpence None the Richer and hopefully the start of a trend in Christian music that will last longer then ska or swing. A fan is always looking for more, and singles give an artist a chance to give back to the fan by releasing rare items as B-sides.
 
By Aaron Bell (2/20/99)