from: hm magazine, issue #57, Jan./Feb. 1996
author: Brian Vincent McGovern
website: http://www.hmmagazine.com

»» NEWSBOYS, Take Me to Your Leader, Star Song

Here's the Steve Taylor-produced (again) follow up to the best seller, Going Public. Well, the 'boys have found themselves an edge. Just as bands like PFR, dc Talk, Audio Adrenaline, et al, have acquired a harder element, these, men have added more guitar and reduced (if not gotten rid of) those electronic . . . things that made Not Ashamed so POP-ular. Take Me to Your Leader is raw for the most part, while sticking to a modern pop vibe. The title song is definitely a standout, as it is reminiscent of last year's big hit, "Shine." Again, several different characters are represented lyrically, and take a little thinking to understand completely. (You can thank Taylor for that. Read the lyrics to "Breakfast," and see if you don'tchuckle even a little.)

Guitarist Jody Davis got a better opportunity to showcase his talent, and introduces a variety of sounds the likes of which I don't remember ever having heard on a Newsboys album, from a smooth, classic rock style distortion, to a raw and gritty modern rock feel. Something else never before done is bassist Phil Urry helping out John James and Peter Furler with lead vocals. This album is obviously a must have for fans of this band, but if you have never liked the Newsboys because they were "too pop," go ahead and give it a listen. You just might be pleasantly surprised.

--Brian Vincent McGovern ««