After landing a deal with Forefront last year, Texas alternative rock band Abandon is now releasing two simultaneous EPs. The Abandon EP was released last year, but is now being re-released as a CD with one new track.

"Providence" starts this effort ambitiously, with a nice modern alt rock sound that will remind the listener of Sanctus Real and The Afters. "Be Alive In Me" is a simple, heartfelt song of dedication, where lead vocalist Josh Engler asks God to "Be alive in me. I know I'm Your's forever... So take me and shake me. I know I'm needing You to be alive in me." Next is "Hold On," a hopeful, synth-filled track that has already been a hit on the radio. "All Because of You" slows down the tempo with a more straightforward worship feel. This theme continues through the final two tracks.

Musically, Abandon brings a cheery alt rock sound with plenty of catchy hooks. This well-accepted format brings many other bands to mind, including some traces of Switchfoot and Tree63. The lyrics are fairly straightforward, dealing with themes of desire, a need for Christ, and humble worship.

Abandon has put together a solid EP that will definitely create interest. While not groundbreaking by any means, this band is good at what they do. The only noticeably weak track is the final number, "Atmosphere" (the addition to this CD release of last year's digital-only EP) which is a mellow worship tune that fails to stand out. Rough spots aside, this is a satisfying listen and the future looks bright for Abandon.

- Review date: 4/22/09, written by Timothy Estabrooks of Jesusfreakhideout.com