Avalon
Sparrow
Let's play word association. I'll throw out a phrase, and you say the first thing that comes to mind. Ready? Christian pop quartet. New R&B/pop sound. Traditional gospel. If what sprung to mind were Point of Grace and 4HIM, Anointed and Andraé Crouch, you have begun to piece together the stylistic bent of Avalon's self-titled debut.
The Charlie Peacock-produced project begins with this foursome's first single, "Give it Up," an upbeat, straight-up pop tune that is by far the jewel in this collection. This song has it all-solid lyrics, interesting music and strong yet smooth vocals that are indeed music to the ears.
The remaining nine songs on the album cover a lot of musical ground, from the European pop/dance tune "This Love," to an almost a cappella version of "My Jesus I Love Thee," and finally to a cover of Andrae Crouch's classic gospel song "Jesus is Lord." With the exception of two or three cuts, Avalon's style leans more towards a mixed gender Point of Grace or 4HIM with a bit of an R&B feel. With lots of drum and synthesizer programming and four powerful vocalists, this is definitely high octane music.
The lyrics are certainly conveying some solid spiritual truth, yet I doubt this album will become known for its poetic depth. Don't get me wrong; there's nothing bad here, but many of the concepts and ideas expressed have been said in similar ways through the years.
As a whole, this album will probably be very well received in the adult contemporary Christian market. It is hitting the bull's-eye on what is currently popular in the genre: straightforward, conclusive lyrics and music that is brimming with vim, vigor and vitality.
--Laura Harris
