Wideawake is a name that some of you may recognize. They've played in 4 countries, 17 states of almost 500 shows with more than 18,000 independent release sales. Their debut release, Thread brought attention from independent label True Tunes while they've gone the independent route with their sophomore album, Bigger Than Ourselves.

"Everyday Rockstar" starts things off with an almost U2 guitar riff that even states, "Maybe one Bono is enough for the world but maybe my songs can help some little girl." "She Likes Purple" adds a very well crafted pop track while "So Simple" slows the pace in balladry fashion. "Bigger Than Ourselves," the title track and "It's Not Dead" bring grungy contemporary delightful tunes while "Along The Way" includes a well-molded anthem of hope. "Shooting Star" is a radio friendly wunderkind while "Hey John" ends the wonderful album in a slow approach.

If Wideawake can't get a major record deal, then what hope does anyone else have? They have the perfect pop rock musical ability, the look, and a rock star lead singer name in Scott Leger. This is not the "Christian Matchbox 20" by any means as Wideawake makes up a whole separate moniker by themselves. Pop rock fans wake up, and don't miss out on this gem!

- Review date: 6/18/02, written by Blake Garris