Taking a postmodern approach to worship, traveling along the same track as Viva Voce, Cush, or label-mates Violet Burning, Dashboard Saint is a collaborative project of multiple musicians. Musically, it moves between blistering rock, electronic-tinged melodies, and ethereal hymn-like worship, with a variety of guest vocalists.
Skypark's soulful vocal chops are lent to the techno-mix of "Higher" courtesy of Tyrone Wells. Jyro, of Fold Zan/Mortal fame, makes an appearance on "Into Your Holiness," and Sharon McFeeters from SCSI performs aptly on "Be the One."
One of the most unique songs, "He Rose Up From the Dead," with a child-like creativity can also be explained by the fact that the words were penned by a six year old. The evocative and haunting "Thank You" features soaring guitars, textured richness, and syrupy female vocals. "All I Need" has a groovy, So-Cal lounge-shoegazer quality that flies really well.
If the project could have been improved somehow, it would have to be lyrically. Given the creativity that went into the musicianship, it was a bit of a let-down to hear songs with predictable lyrics with traditional rhyme-schemes. (Face, grace, place, whole, soul, etc.) That's not to say that they all suffer from the same syndrome, but it is noticeable. However, this would easily be one of the most interesting and sparkling worship albums for the indie-rock crowd.
