Helming from Brampton, Ontario, the pop trio Carried Away is comprised of sisters Pam and Colleen Walker and their cousin Christine Prankard. The members' ages range from late teens to twenty which helps the group maintain a youthful feel. From their opening track "I Will Live For You," a raw vocal harmony is a defining characteristic, while a modest delivery leaves them sounding restrained at times. The album's rock elements are reminiscent of BarlowGirl ("Lift," "Alive"), while the harmonies and pop sensibilities will undoubtedly draw comparisons to ZOEgirl ("Spinning Round").

The band's use of live instruments is a nice touch indeed. The worshipful ballad "Jesus Beautiful Jesus" is especially strengthened by this, allowing it more accessibility and longevity than if the girls had relied too much on electronic pop effects. The title track is a radio friendly song that benefits from more solo work from the girls, as opposed to mostly harmonies that many of the album's opening tracks are heavily built around. The band's song "Carried Away" features Gotee Records worship leader Jeff Deyo as a guest vocalist, who ironically takes over lead for the majority of the song. Deyo's contribution is decent, but he sings so much on it that it feels moreso like the trio are guests on one of his songs. In the end, Deyo's vibrant and passionate vocal delivery contrasts the more laid back Carried Away girls rather than compliments.

Overall, Carried Away offers an impressive debut with Closer To You. Their love for Christ shines through each song on the album and their take on the pop genre is unique. Their vocal deliveries are soft and at times timid, but with further experience, Carried Away may just be a name the mainstream Christian market will be hearing more from real soon...

- Review date: 6/18/05, written by John DiBiase