Testimony
Untitled release
Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt
This tape starts off with a killer intro that builds into what you think is gonna be rippin' music. Instead of wailing guitars crashing in, a mid-70's Jesus music piano a la 2nd Chapter of Acts comes in. After this, vocalist Lois Gistinger comes in. It's kind of anti-climactic for me. It's good stuff here. The music is hot and there's talent, both in the song composing and the performance, but I really expected to rock out and the song didn't deliver. The second song starts out with some crunching guitar chords, and then a candy-pop keyboard comes in to add texture. The last song, "In a Twinkling of an Eye," is the real winner here. Lois starts off the song with some tender, yet passionate vocals. It's a bit reminiscent of the best of Barnabas. I think it holds its own well because Testimony is tackling the sound they do best and not stretching themselves beyond their musical identity. There's a real nice guitar picking sound that carries the song, accompanied by a nice ethereal keyboard sound, plus slow and upfront bass scales, and accented by subdued drumming and light cymbal dancing. There's definite talent here, as the last song exhibits. Guitarist Gary Gistinger promises their next project to be heavier. If you'd like this tape, Testimony has a deal for you: One 3-song cassette; lyric sheet and bio; signed 8x10 glossy; plus a surprise bonus item. All for $6. Testimony, 3020 Hunkin Circle, Deltona FL 32738.