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Intermission: The Greatest Hits Review

For a Christian band to sell over five million records is a lofty statement; throw in numerous Grammy, Dove, and Billboard awards as well as 14 number one hits and the reason why it was time for a greatest-hits package from DC Talk becomes clear. Concerning collections, Intermission is a gem, drawing from four studio albums and one compilation, with room for two previously unreleased tracks. Highlights from 1994's Free at Last include the rap-laced Doobie Brothers cover "Jesus Is Just Alright" and "Luv Is a Verb." From the multi-platinum Jesus Freak, DC Talk includes the title track, "Just Between You and Me," and "Minds Eye," among others. Also included on Intermission is the cut "My Will" from the Michael W. Smith Exodus project. The song is one that highlights the incredible spiritual fortitude and vocal harmonies that the band is known for. DC Talk's latest studio venture Supernatural is represented by only two cuts, the title track and "Consume Me." One tasty tidbit is the Larry Norman gospel classic "I Wish We'd All Been Ready" from the 1991 disc entitled One Way. This rendition is powerful -- as the lyrics ooze with heartfelt passion -- and a nice inclusion in the collection. Of the two new cuts on the disc, "Sugar Coat It" is the better one. The song moves with an energetic pulse; the harmonies are tight and the raps are modern. Notably lacking from Intermission is the band's latest number one single "Dive" and the popular "What Have We Become." DC Talk has always shined as a live band, so something from its live release Welcome to the Freakshow would have been fitting. Still, Intermission is a bold statement of where the band has been and where it's going.

Review by: Steven Losey, All Music Guide