In 1993, Code Of Ethics released their self-titled album, which would remain the ultimate techno-rock album for years to come. After releasing their debut album, Visual Paradox on R.E.X. Records, Code of Ethics was placed into a new world with successful labelmates Audio Adrenaline and dc Talk. The production is much tighter on this release when compared to their debut, and some of the songs could easily have been used as movie themes throughout the '90s. Some of the music from this album was actually used on MTV Sports with host Dan Cortese in the mid '90s.

"Eden" is an intro that is very atmospheric in tone and is almost needed to complete the opening song, "Freedom." Right away, the listener can tell that Code of Ethics has come a long way from the days of Visual Paradox. "Freedom" refers to salvation as a release from the previous ways, "Break the chains/ Let the birds fly from their cage/ and drift upon the winds of change." The rhythm found in "Freedom" bears an uncanny resemblance to New Order's "Bizarre Love Triangle" which was an enormous hit in mid '80s. The next track, "True Love" is a ballad, yet it still has techno integrated throughout the mix. "Something Real" is borderline a hip-hop-techno-rock track as this song could easily have been done by dc Talk with Kevin Max providing lead vocals. "Without Reason," a personal favorite, offers an array of sci-fi sound effects reminiscent of Depeche Mode's "Violator."

The album continues with more great techno hits, such as "World Machine," which illustrates how a person can fall into a life that compromises their faith. "Waiting" and "Satellite Babies" are both a completely a new style not found on Code's first release. "Waiting" brings some classical tones along with some of COE's usual mixing, while "Satellite Babies" brings some aggressive rock elements that will be further explored a bit on their next release, Arms Around The World ("Hurricane" comes to mind). "Follow On" is a great title that was originally released as a single prior to this release in 1992 on R.E.X. Records. The chorus is a memorable one, "I feel that life is worth living/ Even when troubles come my way/ I know that you are here to stay." "Sands of Time" closes the album with limited lyrics, however it does not wear out its welcome by bringing music that conveys emotion.

While there are some incredible releases found in Christian music today, the '90s had some great releases as well, like Code of Ethics' self-titled album. Now that Code of Ethics is making a return in 2008, hopefully new fans will look back over this incredible band's history and discover (or even rediscover) the band's earlier gems.

- Review date: 7/21/08, written by Wayne Myatt of Jesusfreakhideout.com