Chasen make their major-label debut with That Was Then This Is Now, an album that flirts with some secular traditions -- alt-rock chief among them -- but lays its cards on the sacred side of the table. Like
Switchfoot, the band takes its cues from post-grunge’s swagger and
U2’s uplift, creating a sound that mimics the fist-pumping appeal of stadium rock but champions a more spiritual message. It’s hard to miss the fact that these guys are Christians; they make no attempt to downplay their faith in the album’s ten songs, which name-check Jesus and flaunt unapologetic titles like “Love in Your Name.” “Castaway” and “One in a Million” could be modern rock singles, though, and
Chasen balance their own reverence with the desire to make a solid album, rarely stumbling under the weight of their main subject. That Was Then This Is Now is certainly tailored to Christian radio, but as far as CCM albums go, this one has more crossover potential than most. ~ Andrew Leahey