Magdalene's re-release of Trytan's 1987 Celestial Messenger is not unexpected. The label is known for re-releasing classic Christian music albums. The liner notes had this statement: "There are a lot of wonderful albums that go out of print. They are written off as not being worth the time or effort to re-release. At Magdalene Records, we see each re-issue as a piece of Christian music history, still worthy of time and attention of music enthusiasts around the globe." Their choice to re-issue this album, along with many others, is a good one because new listeners are exposed to the beginnings of Christian music and can appreciate how far the industry has come.
Trytan's music is put together well and the lyrics focus on getting closer to God and not rejecting the Truth. Rip Van Winkle is a song about being called by God to follow him. The lyrics are direct and explain exactly what one should do when called:
Wake up, wipe the sleep from your eyes.
Stand up, come and follow me.
A tale passed down through the years, to remind us not to sleep.
Your whole life is flying by, laying by that tree.
Wake up, wipe the sleep from your eyes.
The other songs deal with similar subjects, with song titles like "Don't Turn Away," "Nowhere to Run," and "Chains." There are three bonus tracks included at the end of the disc. Two are from previous demos, and "In Her Eyes," a song previously unreleased. Even though the listener will know immediately that the music was recorded in the 80s, it is nice to hear the early stages of Christian music and lets the listener appreciate the bands and diverse genres present today.
3.5 tocks
Other coverage for this album
HM Magazine #83Reviewed by Doug Van PeltThis classic "Rush gone metal" trio put out a blistering debut album, which now sees the light of day again. If you're like me, you've been craving for this to be available on CD (at decent prices) ever since the disappointing sophomore album (Sylentiger) was originally released on CD. This crisp, progressive and computer-assisted music was just made for this digital format. Now it sounds even…Adonai Metal Rock #2Reviewed by Daniel BaillodTranslated from the original French Here is an album that is the fruit of the work of three of the best musicians in WM. "Celestial Messenger" is steeped in a sophisticated pop metal, and at times a very complex one. Steve Robinson does exceptional work on the bass; besides, TRYTAN has chosen to bring the bass particularly to the fore ("Gettin' Ready"). TRYTAN has often been compared to Rush,…Heaven's Metal #13Reviewed by Doug Van PeltCelestial Messenger has finally been released to an unsuspecting world. I'm real excited that this has finally been released. Regency Records, out of Burbank, California is distributing it. Their warehouse has already sold out of cassettes. More are being pressed right now. You, the readers of Heaven's Metal, and I have had a unique opportunity to view Lary Dean's attitude about his ministry from…Similar sounding releases
1985PhiladelphiaSearch and Destroy
2000American GomorrahExchanging Truth for a Lie
1998NarniaAwakening
1992Holy SoldierLast Train
2001In SolitudeOpus: Universe
1991TraxterRock 'N Race
