Bash -N- The Code

Description

The self-titled debut album by the American pop-rock combo Bash -N- the Code was released on Myrrh Records in 1986, a division of Word. The album was produced by John Andrew Schreiner.

Now that – at least in some sectors – it’s safe and even preferred that Christian pop and rock not forfeit the danceability inherent in the genres, Bash-n-the Code debuts a barnstormer of a dance album. Melding worship lyrics and overtly biblical admonitions to find the joy and uniqueness of Christian living to thoroughly modern dance music in a vibrant and utterly enjoyable combination, Bash-n-the Code makes it abundantly clear that the time has come for this music and this band.

Hats off to producer John Andrew Schreiner (the noted keyboardist on many a Sweet Comfort Band album) who has enabled the project to shake, rattle, and roll out of the speakers. Bash, a seasoned band of veterans already known as Found Free, puts their best feet forward this time around. The punchy drums of Chris Kearney (aided by the Linn 9000) and textured keys of Scott Carmichael and Trent Deanset the stage for the emotive black gospel-styled vocals of Rebecca Ed Sparks, Greg Sparks, and Keith Lancaster. What keeps Bash from dance-mania is the stunning rock guitar soloing of Mark Townsend. Obviously influenced by Clapton and Beck, he adds a certain musicality that tunes aimed at the dance floor often neglect.

«Testify», R.E. Sparks’ duet with guest vocalist Mylon LeFevre, delivers the message in a no-holds-barred R&B riff that best typifies the power of this amalgam of ’80s sounds and the best of the rock ‘n’ roll tradition. «Power Praise», «Whatever I Do», «Go Ahead», «Promises», «I Will Win This Fight», and «Fanatic» may be aimed at revealing to high schoolers the joy of salvation and creating a positive identification for peer-pressured youth, but they had this “old rocker” getting down in his living room, playing air guitar in the dining room, and pounding on his trusty typewriter. Needless to say, a good time was had by all. Bash me again. [Brian Quincy Newcomb, CCM, June/July 1986]

> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/bash-n-the-code/1733713170)

LP tracklist:

Side One
A1. “Power Praise” – 3:26
A2. “We Exalt You” – 3:00
A3. “Whatever I Do” – 4:07
A4. “Testify” – 4:23
A5. “Go Ahead” – 3:49

Side Two
B1. “Diamond” – 3:43
B2. “Promises” – 4:08
B3. “I Will Win This Fight” – 4:19
B4. “Fanatic” – 3:50
B5. “Land Of The Living” – 4:42

Note: Simultaneously released on cassette, 12-inch vinyl LP, and CD by Myrrh Records.

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