Christian music usually follows the trends of secular music, looking to hit a genre that's already popular. At times, this ends up being hokey. At other times, it creates a result that it superior. I think Telecast has accomplished this with their debut, The Beauty of Simplicity.

It's not hard to pick out that Telecast is aiming at Coldplay fans. The acoustic sounds of that popular secular band are an obvious influence here... maybe even a base. But Telecast does something that Coldplay doesn't... they worship.

Be very careful not to get caught up in the whole Coldplay sound so much that you miss the depth of their lyrics. These guys may borrow a popular sound, but they're not borrowing from anybody when it comes to the genuineness of their words. "Just Need You" is a song that I can definitely see becoming a part of my own worship regimen in years to come: "To be a part of Your story, this story of love, and of our great need for you.. I just need You, 'til you're all I can see." It's a quiet prayer that permeates my soul and finds itself on repeat more often than any other song I've heard in a while.

You've probably heard "The Way" if you listen to Christian radio very much. "Radiate" is probably the most obvious throwback to Coldplay, while "Covered" offers a catchy sound that's sure to catch on in worship services. The whole CD is great, though.. one of those rarities that I seldom find myself skipping through other than to get to those songs that I really dig. As recommendations go, this one is right up at the top of my list.

Visit Telecast's website

Back to reviews