Call it alternative, hip hop, rap, or rock, the sound that Reality Check has developed is a potpourri of music, with a twist to it that can only be described as fresh. With their self-titled debut, they demonstrate a sound influenced by many bands before them, with the changing rhythms and style of dc Talk and Audio Adrenaline, and the harmonies of Church of Rhythm and the late, great PFR. The album is strong with its range in style, upbeat and positive messages, and obvious knowledge of a winning sound.
Even though much of their overall sound can be traced to other Christian musicians, Reality Check has a modern day retro-70's groove that seems evident on more than one track. It's hard to picture a blend of 70's rhythm and modern rock, yet they do it, and it's done well. The album is digitally put together, pulling off good tracks, but putting more emphasis on sound, not vocals. Reality Check finds a balance to their music so that they never lose their edge, and yet can go from hard core rock to a simple ballad in a split second.
Messages of hope, forgiveness, and love are some of the subjects reflected through the songs. In "Know You Better," they pull off a definite closeness to Jars, vocally and lyrically, with the professing desire to love God more freely (reminiscent of Jars' "Love Song For A Savior"). In "Masquerade" and "Plastic," you hear the big blend of their sound and how defined and strong they are vocally, as they sing of fake friendships and hiding behind masks. Both songs are shining examples that their sound ability isn't just instrumental-they have much to benefit by vocally, also. When they're not singing in harmony, bright solo vocals come peeking out, showing talent in single voices.
The album is geared to those who like the alternative vibe, with lyrics that seem largely geared to a teen audience. Those who appreciate a retro 70's feel could be hooked to Reality Check's sound when looking for that groovy beat from years gone by. Keep your eyes open to this band. They're seeing green, and it isn't the glow of a lava lamp-it's a big sign telling them to go spread their message of God and this groovy sound that they've created.
Other coverage for this album
7ball #12Reviewed by Ed RockReality Check plays like a buffet for the ears, aimed at listeners who love dc Talk, Newsboys, Audio Adrenaline and even PFR. If you take elements of these bands and mix in a little 311, you get an idea of what Reality Check sounds like. The group raps a la dc Talk's Free At Last and mixes the guitar element of dc Talk's Jesus Freak, the fun grooves of Audio Adrenaline, and the Beatlesque harmony…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Josh SpencerFans of corporate youth group pop/alternative a la DC Talk and Newsboys, rejoice! Reality Check is a very qualified hip-hop/rock/ alternative/rap outfit (4 singers and a backing band, like DC Talk). I don't usually go for this type of overproduced schlock, but I found my head nodding quite a bit the many times I listened to this. It's very catchy, with some cool sounds. They've made good use of…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Shari LloydFans of DC Talk will feel at home with this album, which isn't altogether surprising given that Todd Collins of Gotee Brothers Entertainment did some of the producing. Most of the songs reflect a heavy DC Talk influence but the guitar work is heavier, which I enjoyed. Like DC Talk, these four guys sing while accompanied by a backup band (one member, Nathan, does play guitar). The songs and the…Similar sounding releases
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