The cutting-edge CCM artist returns with a vengeance on this, his only solo release of new material in the '90s. Targeting the Christian market more than the critically acclaimed
Chagall Guevara eponymous release,
Taylor has a few surprises for his fans. Most notable is a tribute to (not a satirization of) the guy at all the football games with the "John 3:16" sign on "Bannerman." Apparently he is satirizing listeners for being so cynical. The energy is high and the production is well done. The opener, "The Lament of Desmond R. G. Underwood IV," is a hard rocker with an uncompromising Christian message of the need for salvation and "Easy Listening," a reggae/ska-influenced number, satirizes the milk-toast nonactivist types who lack the courage of conviction. A fun album from beginning to end -- an end which features a dramatic "rock opera in three small acts" entitled "Cash Cow." Yes,
Taylor has a knack for releasing one album every few years too many, but when they come, they deliver. ~ Mark W. B. Allender