|PIC1|You probably know the band VOTA by their previous name, Casting Pearls. When the similar sounding band Casting Crowns started hitting it big the guys decided to change their name to avoid any confusion between the two.

Band drummer Scott Rutz explains about the name change, "It's a new day and a new chapter for this band. We have a new sound, a new direction, a new feel, a new member, a new label, and new management, so it felt like our old skin didn't completely contain what we do now, nor did it do this band justice anymore."

One of the biggest changes you'll notice with the band is the addition of a new member. Joining the original trio of Bryan Olesen (lead vocals, guitars), Case Maranville (bass, vocals), and Scott Rutz (drums) is Riley Friesen who will add a new keyboard element to the band's sound.

The music found on this self-titled release is high-energy pop rock with songs that have catchy melodies that grab your attention. Think of a mixture of the bands Switchfoot and Maroon 5, with a splash of Van Halen added into the musical mix.

"Hard to Believe" is the first track and single from the release, and also my favourite song on the album and it's been quickly climbing up the charts since its release. This song sets the tone for the rest of the album with its high energy rocking beats. The song talks about the joy that comes from having the Lord in your heart, and wanting to shout it out, letting everyone else know about it.

Spiritually most of the songs have a somewhat muted message that could have double meanings. One example is the song, "Be Mine", that the band explains is about experiencing true love between a husband and wife. The song could just as easily be a love song to God with lyrics like, "how did I survive before you took over my heart."

While most of the songs are upbeat the band does slow it down on "Honestly", a passionate piano ballad that talks about being honest, pulling back the curtain on your life to show the world the wonders of God's grace.

This release also benefits from the work of veteran producer Nathan Dantzler (Relient K, Audio Adrenaline, Tree63).

If you're looking for an intense, deep spiritual learning experience from your music then this one isn't for you. If you like your music more light and carefree with more of a surface type spiritual experience then VOTA's self-titled release fits that need perfectly.

In this modern age when Internet music sales have become just as important, if not more, as those of the corner record store this album has a double release date. It was released digitally on 11 November 2008, but for those of you who like to own a physical CD you'll have to wait until February 10 to get your hands on it.