That crazy solo-artist-with-back-up-band-gone-group All Star United is back! Ian Eskelin's band returns with their Euro-pop/rock-flavored tunes. The band has expanded some. With a member change & a member gain since the last project, their sound has been both amplified and at the same time, softened. Possible? Yup.

One of the only Christian bands with a goal for world domination, All Star United gives the listener a second dosage of fun- sometimes silly and funny -songs to give us positive vibes. Like their debut project, ASU, at the same time as serving up crazy dishes of musical entrees, provides us with some serious heart-filled Spiritual tracks that can even send a sensation of goosebumps down your spine. These rock ballads include "Thank You, Goodnight" & the incredible "I Need You Now."

Fans of songs like "La La Land" & "Smash Hit" will find themselves hoppin' and boppin' to the insanity of "Worldwide Socialites Unite" and the fun of "Theme from Summer." Although ASU has relatively kept their signature sound, they have progressed and changed. These changes include the addition of the "All Star Horns" to some of the songs, and Matt Slocum from Sixpence None the Richer lending his amazing cello talents to some of the rock ballads.

The disc begins with something totally new for the band... pop/punk. "Welcome to Our Big Rock Show" pounds out punk-pop rhythms and Ian's vocals layered with distortion in this instant-hit rocker.

The All Star boys have done it again. At my first listen, I was almost disappointed, but after multiple trials, i have found International... to be a fantastic musical experience. And the 3 hidden songs after the last song just add to the fun!

- Review date: 12/29/98, written by John DiBiase