This one has been a long time in the waiting. It is Charizma's first CD release and their first album in years. And, to my thinking, well worth the wait.
The Ultimate Call contains 15 songs, including the Charizma classics "Turn Me On" and "Take You High" (both of which could be huge hits if released by a major mainstream label stateside), a brand new version of the ballad "Where Do You Stand?" and four completely brand new songs; "Heart of the Wild," "Garden of Eden - Part 1," "Garden of Eden - Part 2" and "Always the Same," as well as the demo classic "One Life To Live" and all eight songs from their latest demo, Heaven Can't Wait.
"Heart of the Wild" has an infectious groove to it with a memorable sing-along chorus. "Turn Me On" and "Take You High" are remarkable radio anthem classics, while "One Life To Live" is slower and more guitar-oriented with a chorus that hooks you in. Another newie, "Garden of Eden - Part 2," like "Heart of the Wild" is driven by an infectious groove and guitar riff with a can't-miss chorus. "Longing for Heaven" and "Feels Like I'm In Heaven" bring us back to the classic keyboard-driven Charizma sound. This is truly an incredible record! Charizma's release in my opinion sets the standard for Christian hard rock in 1994. These guys have put together a release with vocal and lyrical hooks unmatched in Christian hard rock since Stryper's To Hell With The Devil album. This is a must-own record for hard rock fans and an easy Top 5 pick for 1994. Maybe even a 1, 2 or 3. Man, these Swedes are hot.