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Psalmistry have finally released the album their fans have been waiting for. In contrast to their previous low-budget recordings, this one is far more professional and convincing than anything they've done to date. For most of the album they retain their familiar hard-edged sound (somewhat akin to Prodigy or Chemical Brothers), while adding spacey synths, strong female vocals, and the odd hint that the more jazzy approach of some of their fellow Bristol area acts has been an influence. To really appreciate this album a good quality hi-fi, or at least a pair of headphones, is required. There's a lot going on in most of the mixes and the band make extensive use of stereo imaging. Extra vocal layers are often placed some way back in the mix and the beats are also heavily layered. Funky hip-hop vibes add diversity and keep a number of tracks driving, and the rapping is among the best of any Christian dance album. Lyrically there is a little more here than expected. Many songs have a strong worship focus, and others are directed at those who are either not Christians or are lukewarm in their faith. The band thankfully avoids the cliches common in evangelistic music, and the tracks do stand on their own strength. Personally, I find "Jesus Armchair" to be the most interesting track lyrically as it questions how easily some Christians sit back and accept what they're told as truth without actively exploring it. This laid-back track is akin to Massive Attack in some ways and is one of the stand-outs for its simplicity. The frenetic energy of "Hectic" makes it one of most engulfing tracks, while "Didgereborn" is perhaps the most interesting, taking an unexpected look at world music faintly reminiscent of a harder version of Hydro's Aborigination. Ethnic vocals and didgeridoo work seamlessly in this album--something the band will hopefully continue to do. Towards its end, the album loses some focus. The punk of "Paul Daniels," while well executed, doesn't feel quite right in this context and the rap will not be to everyone's tastes. Yet this is still one of the finest hard-edged dance albums to emerge from a Christian label and well worth the wait. James Stewart (4/3/99)
Armchair Rebellion puts the listener on the dance floor with one of the most exciting bands playing in the name of Jesus. Here Jesus is Lord and worthy of your praise. Any Christian DJ can slip this CD in at a secular gig without embarrassing himself. This album is top notch praise and worship. Armchair Rebellion is a biting indictment against complacency which makes sub par praise and worship albums such big money makers. Musically, Psalmistry made some wise artistic decisions without compromising the essence of industrial music. There are no instruments on the album other than sampling keyboards and drums. But the hooks and beats are so captivating that you will be disappointed when the lengthy cuts draw to a close. There is a fine line in industrial dance between extended grooves and pointless repetition. Psalmistry always stays on the exciting side of the line. Their furious energy and hard-edged sound sounds somewhat similar to Prodigy or Chemical Brothers with synths and strong female vocals. There is even a punk song to show this band's versatility. Great driving music too but watch your speed. Give this a try today. Hey, N*Soul how about some live shows in the US. Linda LaFianza & Shari Lloyd 4/04/2000
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