First off, you have to understand something about Joy Electric. Their music is made entirely with synths, and not just any synths, but vintage synths. This would cause many to classify them as techno, which would not be a fair assessment of them. No, it is a unique world of nonsensical poetry with a melodic background. Take away the first part of that and you have ChristianSongs.

Unlike their earlier albums, ChristianSongs consists of 11 tracks boldly proclaiming their faith. The opening track, "Voice of the Young," sets the stage for the lyrical portion of the album, with lines like I know we are younger but we're getting closer/ to be all that we hope to become. Following this melodic track is "Children of the Lord," the most outspokenly Christian track on the album. Another winner comes to life in "Disco for a Ride." The only misstep on this album takes form in "Lift Up Your Hearts." While not a bad song, it doesn't seem to fit the quality of the rest of the tracks on the record. "I Sing Electric" slows things down a bit, but they pick up again with an excellent rendition of Keith Green's "Make My Life a Prayer." Returning to the nonsensical poetry of yesteryear is "Singing in Gee," a beautiful, story-telling song. "True Harmony" is a somewhat similar song while "The Magic of" thrives on a great beat despite its lyrics being somewhat incomprehensible. "Sythesized, I Want You" continues with great melodies and beats. Closing things out is "Birds Will Sing," a pretty little song that will stick in your head for weeks.

Many people have labeled Joy Electric as a novelty and have thrown them aside, never giving music that is somewhat different a chance. I know many of you are very into hard rock and such, as I am, yet, if you open your mind, you will find a wealth of perfect pop gems in ChristianSongs.

JFH Reader Review: written by Allison Simmons, 3/23/03, for Jesusfreakhideout.com