In a time where trends come and go, Christian music often jumps on these trends, going all out to supply the listener with an assortment of artists to choose from. Some are exceptional, some fall short of really catching our attention. Some are overrated, some are highly underrated. As I listen to Tree63's self-titled debut to the US, I have mixed feelings about what I hear.

Modern worship is a Christian trend sweeping the scene. Pretty much started by Delirious and the Insyderz a few years ago, it has just kept increasing in popularity. Tree63's sound and feel is a lot like that of Delirous' Cutting Edge project or the latest Scarecrow and Tinmen effort. Lyrically, the words are very worshipful and full of praise, but musically, they're not entirely doing anything new. Although straight from Durban, Africa, it's surprising how much their sound reminds me of Delirious.

Don't get me wrong, though. Tree isn't bad. I'm more disappointed than anything. The lyrics are strong in message from song to song. "Treasure" starts off the album with a radio-friendly pop rhythm that especially reminds me of Scarecrow. The vocals are similar to Delirious' Martin Smith but are not as powerful or emotional. "Joy" follows, another happy pop tune with a monotonous intro with a more pleasing chorus. They slow things down a bit for "Anthem," a worshipful song that comes across better musically and lyrically than the previous tracks. Along with "A Million Lights," their more melodic tracks seem to be more fitting for their sound.

Nothing new, but a decent project, Tree63's self-titled USA debut is a good worship record, but it isn't Delirious' Glo, which releases 2 weeks prior.

- Review date: 10/3/00, written by John DiBiase