As I sit here on my balcony writing this review, the sounds of Critical Mass' album, Faith Looks Up, are lifting in the background:"I am Wisdom, I am God; calling from eternity to pull you from the mud..." and it reminds me of what I like so much about this project: the sound. This band has a great sound, a little edgy, definitely alternative, firm but not overpowering, and so different from contemporary Catholic music. This, of course, is not to say that typical contemporary Catholic music isn't good, but it is also good to hear the gospel proclaimed in another way.

Critical Mass is a band based in Ontario, Canada and is made up of many members. This is their first CD and a strong debut effort it is. The vocals are strong and stylish, the arrangements tasteful. I find myself playing this CD in my mind as I do things around the house, and while I work.

My favorite cuts are "Wisdom", "Body and Blood" and "Save me". The lyrics of "Wisdom" are so true: "You'll never understand the Truth unless you trust in Me". This song establishes the feel and style of this album, which is carried through consistently in the other cuts. "Save Me" features the female members of the band in the lead vocal position. When I listen to it, I can just hear the members of our parish Youth Choir (mostly female) performing this number at Mass, and picture their shining faces as they sing, "Save me, Hold me in Your arms, that's where I need You..." My favorite cut, though, is "Body and Blood", a wonderful, meditative song about the Eucharist which just lulls you into the love of Christ, shared through His Body and Blood. The message, conveyed through simiple lyrics, is very powerful:"Take My Body, I offer it to You, Take my Blood, I've poured it out for you..."

I can understand why Faith Looks Up appeals to young people, but as an over 40 (but not too much over!) mother of two, I know this album has an even wider appeal.

Susan Bailey