Stellar Kart’s debuted with “All Gas.No Brake,” last year. Since then the band has moved light-years ahead. “We Can’t Stand Sitting Down,” out July 25, shows the gain.
Some critics were unkind last year, but the public made Stellar Kart leaders on the radio charts and at the sales counters. SK played over 200 dates with bands like Kutless, BarlowGirl, Falling Up and Pillar, leading to several Dove nominations. In the midst of all this hard work, they took time to hone their song-writing chops and polish their instrumental skills. They wrote 25-30 songs for the project before whittling the list down to 12 solid tracks that cover tough issues with honesty and compassion.
Once accused of being "insubstantial" and "sterile," they are anything but today. "We Can't Stand Sitting Down" is a mature, well-produced collection, thematically focused on the wisdom and blessing of living surrendered lives. Which is not to say it doesn't rock. These twelve songs burn through at the speed of light, with punk-pop tracks like opener "Procrastinating" and the muscular "I'm Pretty Good" blasting past in nano-minutes. Their youth-group roots show through in "Always Waiting" and the rousing "Activate," both fast and hard.
Surprises include the father-oriented "Only Wanted" and the powerfully moving encourager "Hold On," written to hearten those dealing with depression. The album's center might be the slammin' "Lose Control," its rock changes and background crooning giving over ego-driven self-control with great relief. Jordan Messer's drums thunder throughout, though the concentrated efforts of all four (Adam Agee: vocals, Brian Calcara: bass, and Cody Pellerin: lead guitar) can leave you breathless. I want to make sure to mention two more standouts: the compassionate "Me and Jesus," told from Christ's perspective to remind us of his constant presence, and the worship-rich "Angels in Chorus," thick with spirited vocals. All in all, a very worthy follow-up, sure to silence the critics and please new fans. And be sure to check out my recent conversation with Adam Agee to learn more about the inner workings of this awesome band!
