Mad At The World

Roger and Randy Rose from Mad at the World are back at it, with a powerful re-visit of their early synth-heavy albums. Being a fan of MatW and of good synth work, their album Hope fails to disappoint. The synth structures and sounds are reminiscent of the eponymous first album and the powerful subsequent release of Flowers in the Rain. Fans of 80s synth pop and industrial will find this album a treasure. While the influences from that time are strongly represented, the Rose bros. (I hope they will forgive the use of the phrase!) bring a fresh eye to the music and make it musically contemporary.The album's title, Hope, is befitting the overall sentiment and lyrical content. The writing is honest, inviting, and unapologetic in presenting their theological views. It's not preachy, yet a genuine expression of heartfelt sentiment.The first track, "Healing on Planet Earth," is a great introduction to the overall theme. While retaining a sadness and darkness MatW listeners are familiar with, the familiar sense of real, objective hope in the world that has ever served as a stamp of their music. This track is a pleading prayer asking for a return for love and understanding on Earth. A hopeful return of what we appear to have lost touch with and perhaps failed to expand, leaving it withering on the vine as it were. It finishes with a plea to Jesus to heal us again."My Old Best Friend" is a send-off to one's old self and welcoming a renewal of heart. Very nice piano work in this, accompanied by some synth backgrounds."You are Free" engages strongly in a celebration of the rchestral Hit' sounds common to the 80s, yet as strong as a sound as it is, it's pronounced yet not overbearing in this song. Perhaps it's best use is accomplished in this song. "I can't help but wonder if God is real, or I'm the one to blame, for all my shame" is a well-constructed lyric that is strong and very accessible. In some instances, it brings tears to one's eyes. The chorus, "you are free," is moving."Moving In and Moving...