Who said Christian bands can't rock & roll? One of the best releases in the late '90s, if not the decade, Audio Adrenaline's Bloom is laced with hard-driving grooves and riveting guitar licks. The opening "Secret," "I'm Not the King," and "Memoir" prove the former, while "Never Gonna Be as Big as Jesus," "Good People," and "Walk on Water" demonstrate the latter. And through it all, the band reminds us that they know a good melody when they hear one. The powerful presence of singer Mark Stuart is apparent throughout as he showcases his classic FM-radio rock voice, now an Audio Adrenaline signature. You'll also love the cover of Edgar Winter's "Free Ride," which never sounded so fresh. --Michael Lyttle
