I think there might be some misconceptions about Code of Ethics. Their latest release is being pushed as a Pop album, but this categorization misses the mark. Code's ForeFront debut album falls more in the alternative spectrum, drawing most notably from the slower, more alternative sounds of Depeche Mode. On the more upbeat side, influences can be noticed from Erasure and New Order-a real European feel. It is keyboard/program intensive with a few samples, a few house beats, excellent lead and (not so common in the more alternative music) background vocals, and a hip-hop interlude in one spot. It should not stretch your imagination to picture any number of the tunes blasting in a local nightclub. For fans of Code's earlier Visual Paradox, be ready for a more evenly distributed album, which actually may lean a little more towards the downbeat. Interestingly, Barry has changed the spelling of his last name from Blazs to Blaze-go figure.
Lyrically, while not a particularly dark album, it certainly doesn't beat any Christian ideas into your head. All the songs are clearly written from a Christian viewpoint and address a part of that personal relationship with the Lord, with the exception of "True Love" which appears to be a love song. Nothing on the album is particularly direct in focusing the listener towards God. Most Christians should instantly understand the statements and realize that they are being directed towards the Lord, but this may not be so for the non-Christian.
Songs like "World Machine," "Satellite Babies," and "Sands of Time" make statements such as "From God down to man, you've been given information, so turn the page and decide what you believe," "Death is not the end for my satellite babies, if you put your trust in me," and "I've taken your hand, I know who I am... You've given me hope." It all sparks thoughts of God for someone that knows the Lord, but for someone unfamiliar with Christianity, it does not lead them to the Lord. Even more common are the statements such as "Can't you help me, me at all," "Is there someone who can set me free," and "Show me something more, give me faith without reason. I know there must be more to change my life like the seasons turning," which raise questions that aren't in any way answered on the project. Even songs that seem to be sung from God's perspective, "Waiting," "Satellite Babies," and "Pain," don't state that this is the case. The curiosity engaged in the lyrics is not channeled in a way for the listener to engage in a relationship with the Lord.
Perhaps it is more a part of the musical style, remembering some of the work of Depeche Mode and Erasure that was less than easily comprehensible. The ambiguity is also somewhat engaging, requiring more than a casual listen to hear what is being said.
This is an album that truly moves me, physically and mentally. The music is probably some of the best European style, easily outrating any secular artists today. Lyrically, it made me think. This should definitely help Code of Ethics carve a niche that few Christian bands have pursued.
Similar sounding releases
1996AleixaHoney Lake
1992MortalLusis
1992TechnokcraciSmall Square Boxes
1998As If...Strange Blue Thing
1996Disco SaintsCosmic Cowboy
2000ParadoxNew Devotion
