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Tait Most people will recognize Tait by vocalist Michael Tait, the band's namesake and one third of dc Talk. It seems safe to say that if Tait proves popular, Michael's superstar identity had a little something to do with it. However, after listening to this album it's easy to tell Michael isn't their only strong asset. The band is also graced by Pete Stewart's guitars (formerly of Grammatrain), Lonnie Chapin's bass (from Petra) and Chad Chapin's drums (from Curious George). I can't say that with Empty, Tait has a straight shot to the top. In fact, most of their music affects me only enough for it to go in one ear and out the other. Tait's melodies, instrumentation and lyrics are oftentimes predictable and formulaic. Of course, with three of the band members originating from such giants as Grammatrain, Petra and dc Talk, that "Top 40" formula probably comes all too naturally to the songwriters. It's not bad music, but it can be uninspired at times. There aren't enough risks being taken in much of the album for the music to really be interesting or stick with the listener. This generalization does not apply to every song. Two tracks from this album keep me coming back for more. The first, 'Alibi,' is memorable for its energetic melody and smooth guitar work. I expect this song will do well on the radio (be it Christian or mainstream). The second of the two is my personal favorite. When listening to 'Unglued,' it's easy to tell the song is deeply personal for Michael. The emotion is readily apparent in his vehicle, and I wondered on one particular verse if he might have actually been crying while recording it. After reading about the meaning behind the song's lyrics, his sadness becomes quite understandable: the song is about the pain Michael experienced when dealing with the loss of his father, brother and sister all in a single year's time. This song is truly inspired. I only wish the same amount of heart had been put into the rest of the album. One of the things I appreciate about this song, and the album in general, is that Michael would most likely never have been able to share this song on a dc Talk album. I suppose that's the point of a solo career. Although Michael hasn't gone 100% solo with Tait, it seems to be as far as he needed to go to express himself fully. Empty takes a devotional approach to the everyday ups and downs we all experience. Each track showcases simple, solid songwriting and instrumentation with lyrics that are sometimes cheesy and predictable, but always honest. Michael's vocals are as solid as they've always been. Anyone who has loved his voice in the past won't be disappointed by his vocals on this album--they are truly top notch. This album should top the shopping list of any fans of Michael Tait's vocals or Pete Stewart's guitar work. Anyone else may want to give this album a listen in the store before dropping it in their basket. All in all, Empty is a good debut, but Tait has a long way to go. (Josh L!) |
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