After a slew of EP's, a full-length release last year, and a European tour stint, the band Philmont is back again. This time the band returns with an independently released EP which is being partially funded by fans of the band who have already donated over $4,000 to the project. So does their enthusiasm match the merit of the group's latest offering?

"The Transition" opens with "I Am," a typical pop/punk track featuring Scott Taube's vocals and lyrics that focus on how God perfects us in His eyes and seeks to be the center of our lives. The entire EP will stay true to that focus, and it nicely showcases the band's adamant stance about Who they're making music for. The music strays a little from the typical "pop/punk" sound that's heard all over the radio in "The Alchemist" and "Closer," which is probably a response to previous criticisms that the band sounded too much like other bands and failed to be innovative. The critics will be pleased to see that they have stepped it up a little in that department. This release also has some more meaningful tracks too: "You Will Remain" is a song about realizing that only the things done for God will matter in the end and "The Last Song I Sing," which showcases beautiful words about wanting God to know nothing less than the fact that we love Him.

All in all, there are a few upbeat/catchy tracks and a few meaningful worship tracks; a combination that creates a complete sound for Philmont. While I realize that the band isn't currently signed, I do wonder what direction they are heading in with the release of yet another EP. Most fans would be hoping for more than just another six track release at this point. However, if you're looking for some more of that pop/punk sound and don't mind the small package, then this should fit the bill well.

- Review date: 10/17/10, written by Kevin Hoskins of Jesusfreakhideout.com