Roman Catholics Online
Artist of the Month Talent Showcase
July/Aug 1998

Besides having the gift of excellent music talent, this Canadian group of musicians exalts the hope and love we should have in God as our Redeemer! The debut release titled "Faith Looks Up" brings together situations we face in daily life through inspiring lyrics with a strong melodic blend of vocals and modern music for the masses.

According to vocalist David Wang, the name of the group "Critical Mass" means several things. "First, the Mass is central and critical to all the members of the band. Jesus is truly there in the Eucharist and that is simply incredible! Second, in physics, when one puts together a critical mass of certain elements, one can get a nuclear explosion. We hope that our impact can be like that."

When I heard the first track on this CD titled "Wisdom," I knew exactly what Wang was talking about. "If we can inspire a critical mass of Youth, perhaps we will see an explosion which can revive the youth of our Church" says Wang. With this year being declared the year of the Holy Spirit, I can't help but to see this critical mass taking place in our times.

A few tracks like "In The Meantime," "Eyes of Love" and "Take My Body" offer thought provoking and inspirational messages, blended with superb music and vocal arrangements. Track eight offers an instrumental version of "Body and Blood" which I found myself singing to. It was great being able to share in praising our Lord with Critical Mass, through this wonderful arrangement on track eight.

I can see why Critical Mass has developed a large following by performing at many Youth Masses. "It is gratifying to see these kids return to the Church with fervor and knowing that we were able to be a part of that process." Wang says.

It's no surprise to hear how and where their music has surfaced. "Our music is now used in several places in youth services. For us, that is the greatest honor and the greatest evidence of our impact. Body and Blood is now used by several churches in our area, including a Protestant Church!!"

I always find it fascinating to see how the Holy Spirit works in our lives. I think it's quite obvious in seeing how this band was formed. Wang describes these events: "We've met through a series of 'coincidences' Eric, Jodie, Tim and myself knew each other previously. We met Tom, Sharon and Lorraine at a Twila Paris concert in another city 60 miles away. We were very excited when we learned that we were all RC and were from the same area. We joined up with Matt Bierschbach after he quit his secular band. Apparently, as he sat talking to his mom about what he should do with his talents was when we called him to ask him to join our band. Matt Devine joined us after quitting his secular band as well."

Various members of the group have gone through dramatic conversion experiences. They come from an extremely wide variety of backgrounds and walks of life. Wang adds "It makes it even more surprising that we ended up playing music together!"

The CD reads with the inscription "Dedicated to Mother Theresa who was a living example of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To love at all times, To love at all cost. May we continue her work by loving all those around us."

Since the band's inception, they have each been put through extreme trials and tribulations in their lives, in and outside of the band. I remember a professor once told us in one of my music courses in college, "A a true musician lives his music" You wouldn't expect Critical Mass to believe otherwise. Especially when the music, is about the love, faith, and hope in Christ. Wang remarks "During all this, however, we have been drawing closer to Jesus, and surrendering all our trials to Him, trusting that He is leading us in the right direction." After listening to this entire CD, you'll see that it's quite obvious that He truly is. This is a CD you won't want to miss.