By: Kevan Breitinger
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Chasen
Shine Through The Stars
OMG Records
Pop
04-15-2008
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SCORE
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Get ready to hear a whole lot more about Chasen, a rootsy pop trio out of South Carolina and the debut artist from upstart label OMG. Their thirteen track debut album blows a fresh wind into the Christian music scene, and first single “Crazy Beautiful” is already creating buss with its effortless climb up the charts.
The rootsy, ambient “If It Comes Down” snags my attention instantly with its splashy percussion, taut programming, and frontman Chasen Callahan’s warm vocal on rousing lyrics of commitment. I was easily drawn into the airy bridge with its stirring refrain: “I won’t bend and I won’t break/ No matter what they say.” Single “Crazy Beautiful” comes across like earthy beat poetry with its fresh rhythms and focused affirmation. Two tracks in and you already deeply appreciate Chasen’s energetic positivity.
They take a sharp left turn with the sweetly acoustic worship track “Nothing Like You,” rhythmically nuances and fresh, and it’s all good. I love the intuitive way “Drown” builds from its gentle acoustic opening to thick rock guitar strums, cleverly illustrative of its subject matter: lust. The epic track is underscored by lush strings and Callahan’s strong vocal communicates an intensity that fits. The wildly melodic “Doubts or Disbelief” is instantly appealing, its quiet celebration slowly sinking in through the potent vocal arrangements and heartfelt chorus. Chasen injects a subtle country vibe in many tracks, including the joyous bounce of “All Creation,” the slightly edgier “You and I,” and the steel-guitar enhanced “Don’t Walk Away.” The thick chords of “History Tonight,” a warm song of friendship and commitment comes across with an Eagles-like country rock vibe, while pulsating pop worship track “God & King” is more Sunday morning oriented.
It’ll mess with your iPod, but the hidden bonus track of “Stars Are Meant To Shine” is more than worth it. The majestic, melodic song of repentance and worship comes in at the three minute mark and is an absolute show-stopper. Actually, I believe it is the title track, and Chasen, also strong on moving keyboards, pours heart and soul into the lyrics of potent adoration: “You forgive / You forget / You let me start again / Even though it seems I won’t change / You still love me the same.” A great closer to an irresistible new project. You’ll be kicking yourself if you miss the Chasen debut.
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