Undercover, a band involved in the onset of what we know as Christian music, has persevered through the trials of both the music industry, as well as crushing personal tribulation. And that is what makes us stronger and, dare I say, more certain of who we are . . . and what's inside of us. The passion that starts with "Spill" and continues through "Union" wraps around you as it bellows through the speakers. Undercover flirts with joy on many different musical levels. The strange and pleasant addition of Rob Gallas (from Black & White World) taking lead vocal to a whole new dimension for the band, paints new stories and challenges old Undercover listeners with a simplicity that is quite refreshing.
The menacing, thrilling keyboards find their trademark on several cuts, such as "Forum (Lullaby)" stating, among other truths, "It's only how you think that matters..." At first maybe just another humanistic, selfish idealogy . . . but, in context, a personal realization of a relationship with our Creator. Grit and groove, flame and funk swirl throughout each song. There are no facades on this record. No pretentious yelping about how much we know about God -- but God, or His Spirit, permeates through the dancing violins on "Carmenita." We wonder over wonder about the heavens in "Moon and The Blue Around."
Redefining has been fun for these guys. A new plateau, and they sure make it fun for us. Our car stereos will love it for the guitar of "Whoa Nelly," the all-out desperation of "A Pocket Full of Money" and a complete package of straight-ahead assault in a forum we who appreciate good rock and roll will understand. Undercover is on higher ground.