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"Normal Generation 1"
Normal Generation are a trio of young German lads (Simon, Stevie and Marc) who have a passion for sharing Christian truths through the medium of - you've got
it - modern dance music! Though recorded in '96 and since succeeded by "Normal Generations 11" and the very recent "Outsiders", this venture still sounds vibrant and totally 'with it', being given an immediate
Top10 position when first received by GoldUSA.
Simon and/or Stevie wrote most of the tunes and lyrics, while all three musicians provide the raps. Additional vocals are provided on many tracks by one Corrine Vorstermann
van Oyen, whose clear and powerful voice gives a (sometimes hauntingly) beautiful ring to the overall feel of the album. Thus songs like 'You and me' and 'He'll be there' come over with poignancy and clarity. Indeed all songs are
incredibly infectious, there being plenty of musical variety to stop this disc from sounding repetitively boring or dangerously hypnotic in influence. The fastest track is the delightfully poppy 'Flybubble' (at a speed of 210bpm
for all you techno-phobes!), while most bounce along at around 145bpm. The lyrics are deep and clear, covering issues such as pain (a real standout being the delectably dancy 'Troubles'!); spiritual encouragement, and offerings of
worship to the King ('Halleluja'). A little contrast is provided on the slower 'August summer night' (running at a mere 80bpm!), with a sound as beautiful as the image conjured by the song's title, and on 'God is alive', recorded
live and including keen audience participation!
All in all this is a rare piece of dance-beat beauty. If you haven't yet caught the sound of these energetic and creative dudes, then "Normal Generation 1" is a
great place to start.
Review by tom lennie |
