While relatively new to the music scene with their debut Shine through the Stars, South Carolingian-based band Chasen have already been an opener at concerts for Relient K and Needtobreathe for some time, as well as garnered some attention and a hit single with "Crazy Beautiful."

Chasen's debut is honest and worshipful, with the band openly proclaiming their faith to the world, as well as what it means to them. Opening track "If It Comes Down" is a good example of this, with vocalist Chasen Callahan declaring that, between God and the world, "I choose You." The next two tracks are both good songs, - from "Crazy Beautiful"'s quirky "whoa-oh"-s to the soaring chorus in "Nothing Like You" - unfortunately, the rest of the album just doesn't stand out at all. It's a bit confusing as to why Chasen deviated from their promising opening, and headed in a direction that was comprised of mostly sub-standard worship songs, many of which were in the same key. It's a bit of a shame, as the listener is under the impression that they are capable of far more than that. Instead, the majority of the album has settled for a musical style used by many contemporary bands, most of whom are below par musically.

While songs such as "Crazy Beautiful" and "Nothing Like You" are good both lyrically and musically, they are hardly enough to offset the rest of the album, which blurs into itself with similar-sounding tracks and lacklustre musical composition. The band does show some promise, and with time and maturity, they just might iron out their kinks and creases for a promising sophomore release.

- Review date: 3/17/08, written by Adam Dawson of Jesusfreakhideout.com