Indie Rock Show Review
by Sonia V.

James Guest
Klenzd (2005)

The first impression rocker James Guest conveys is that of a distinguished voice not easily forgotten or mistaken.  When most modern rock bands are following the trends of being another carbon copy of Blink 182, Greenday & P.O.D., it's refreshing to hear a vocalist who can actually "sing" and not just scream over rock rage.  He'll remind you of such notable male singers Steve Perry (Journey), Greg X Volz, Lou Grahm (Foreigner) and Michael Sweet (Stryper) that dominated the 80's rock era with their tenor virtuosity.  But James Guest brings back the nostalgia of the style and vocal bravado that has been absent in music since the hair band decade in such a way that is a refreshing change amidst the cliché of commercialism found in most music these days.  80's enthusiasts yearning for something new that captures the best of 80's rock essence with renewed passion will appreciate the music on this new disc “Klenzd”. 

If you're seeking shallow,  formulated pop songs driven by teen and 20 something angst, this disc runs too deep for your taste.  The lyrical content relays the relationships of family and faith and some scriptural references but doesn't come across trite as much of Christian paraphrased music does.  James has a way of applying it to real life in a way people can identify with.  The songs speak of love relationships, the struggles, the will to keep fighting and preserve  faithfulness sometimes broken.   The story of this music is honest, addressing the inner struggles of a man striving to be a man of God even in the darkest times and storms of his life.   Unexpected and inviting.  For more on James Guest, visit online at www.jamesguest.org