Adam Again

Adam Again's second release, Ten Songs by Adam Again, is a major leap forward in maturity and musicality. Accompanied by members of the gospel group Joy, the band puts forth a dancy, soulful, introspective, and intellectual release that challenges the mind as well as the feet. The only drawback to this record is the lack of a drummer -- the group still relies solely on drum machines, which give the record a bit of an empty sound in places. The spastic guitar work by Greg Lawless goes a long way here, not to mention Gene Eugene's unusual voice. There is an excellent cover of "Ain't No Sunshine." The lyrics begin to become more sophisticated, with less reliance on simple light/dark concepts. "Tree House" is about the tyranny of the elite and the exclusion of the underprivileged -- maintaining that someday there will be a "fire in the tree house." It's a powerful song. Most notable is the eight-plus minute dance number "Beat Peculiar," with its killer jams throughout. If you can get past the drum machines, this is an excellent record. ~ Mark W.B. Allender, All Music Guide