Amazon.com
Very likely the most amped-up female vocal group in the Christian arena, ZOEgirl cuts loose urban grooves that fit right into the core of today's favorite pop sounds. This trio is introducing itself to the world with this self-titled debut record--and more than 100 concert dates with Clay Crosse, Nichole Nordeman, and Carmen. The word
zoe, which means "life," is a symbol of ZOEgirl's vision to portray the passion and beauty of a life that is in harmony with Christ. And with youth as a target audience, they have put their passion into songs about issues that affect the lives of teens. The centerpiece of this project is the pristine vocal energy, which strikes a perfect balance between playfulness and warmth. As well, ZOEgirl's gifted crafting of catchy, anthemic melodies adds an element of euphoria to the message that they carry.
--Israel Button
From CCM Magazine -- Subscribe Now!
ZOEgirl is the latest incarnation of the girl/boy band phenomena, joining a proliferation of teen-to-20s artists in Christian music. The trio of Chrissy Conway, Kristin Swinford and Alisa Girard (dad Chuck was an early Jesus music pioneer) has voices that naturally blend together. The harmony works well in the opening tune, "I Believe," a hook laden, up-tempo, I'm-not-ashamed-of the-gospel, feel-good track. One other notable highlight of the record is the thoughtful ballad, "Give Me One Reason," the story of a young girl who comes to Christ then struggles with the "be not unequally yoked" concept, praying that someday the one she loves will also believe in God.
Most of this keyboard/drum track project is pleasant but generic pop, with lyrics that touch on themes or concepts that are easily understood by the group's intended younger audience ("Anything Is Possible," "Living for You"). The sometimes thin production value ("Upside Down" is more suited for an aerobic training video) is less than expected from the veteran production team of Joey Elwood, Tedd T. and Quinlan.
At the end of the day, there are threads of good work here-enough in the short-term to please and encourage pre-ten/pre-teen/pre-college listeners. If lately there could be an argument made for patience and artist development in Christian music, ZOEgirl may be it. -- Mike Fernandez (c) 2000 CCM Communications, Inc.