Turn Off The Stars is a new band based out of Canada with a lot to offer. With great musicianship and beautiful melodies, the band proves themselves as a credible act. While they have a style in the vein of Brit-Rockers such as Delirious, Coldplay, and Keane, Turn Off The Stars still seems to separate themselves from being completely pigeon-holed as a copycat.

The first track, "I Wasn't Ready," sounds like it could have been a b-side from Coldplay's recent X&Y. However, lead singer Mike Walker's vocals tend to be in a slightly lower range. The difference in vocal styles helps give them a sound more their own. "Please" is probably the track that stands out the most. The rhythm section is the driving force for this song.

"Falling Into You" features dominating bass lines and powerful guitar riffs. This worship driven song displays the band's great songwriting. It far succeeds many of the overused and cliché worship songs of today. "Hours And Days" changes the pace and gives us the band's softer side, beautifully showing the band's ability to perform.

"30 Days" begins with very little instrumentation and instantly builds to the chorus after the first line. The song continues with a pounding rhythm section and melodic guitar riffs before slowing to an end. "Getaway" is a nice transition with a simple picking acoustic guitar. It isn't until the bridge that the other instruments accompany the song, and the result is reminiscent of Delirious' Glo.

"Nowhere Skies" is yet another worshipful tune that seems to capture the mood of the lyrics. This catchy song focuses on being lost in the midst of God's glory. "Lately" speaks about the mysteries of God and His plans. It faces some real truth with the lyric, "If I knew everything about everything / There would be no time for faith."

The song "Usual To Me" is about the mundane in life. It's a song of hope for those caught in a rut. The music helps carry the message as Walker's vocals are belted out toward the songs' end. "If Only" focuses on the light of God to help us on our journey through life. The album then closes with "Brightside," a simple song that makes for a beautiful finish.

Overall, this debut album from Turn Off The Stars is an excellent album. Fans of this genre should be very pleased with this album. They are far from being a Christian rip-off and do an amazing job to prove it. Each member plays an important and solid role in the band. With a top notch rhythm section, incredible guitars, and standout vocals, Turn Off The Stars is a solid debut that makes me I look forward to their future releases with great anticipation.

- Review date: 8/12/06, written by Brett Wier