Noise Ratchet is a four-piece emo/punk band that has been playing in various forms for over three years. Their first release, an independent venture by the band, is at first listen very normal. Very normal, that is, if you listen to secular bands like The Getup Kids or Jimmy Eat World. I could probably stick this CD in one of my friend's piles of music, and they would never know the difference musically between Noise Ratchet and all the other bands they listen to.

What makes the band stand out, however, is their focus on ministry. They almost always have a time during their live set where a member gives his testimony or shares something about God. They've even been known to stop playing their own songs and start playing worship songs in the middle of a show. Of course, this can be a precarious situation for some bands, especially for those who are relatively young, but Noise Ratchet presents their message with tact and intelligence.

And this tact and intelligence can easily be seen in the band's lyrics. Noise Ratchet's words create a window that allows you to peer into the most intimate moments between the band members and God. The track that catches me the most is the title track, "Why We Cry." It shows an immense desire to know God's heart.


Perhaps it is because they are still young and new to the wears of semi-stardom that Noise Ratchet seems so passionate and un-jaded about their songs. In any event, they never seem to be performing for the crowd, but rather letting you witness their hearts being laid bare before their Savior.

This concert experience rivals that of almost every other band I've ever seen. The show is more intense than Mineral, more fun than the Promise Ring, and crackles with more energy than The Getup Kids. And although Noise Ratchet is not as polished as any of these bands, they are making their way very quickly. What they lack in musicianship (which is not much), the band makes up for in pure energy.

The main case against NR is maturity, but with tight riffs, urgent vocals, and a heart for ministry, success should come easily. Plus, with the success of bands like The Juliana Theory, the Christian market for emo/indie rock should break open any time. In that case, Noise Ratchet will enjoy immense popularity for years to come.

Although the band is unsigned at the moment, it is rumored that they're talking with Tooth and Nail Records, along with a number of other, smaller labels. I wish them the best of luck, as should everyone who likes good music.

Overall, I give this CD 4 of 5 stars, only because I wish it were longer than thirty minutes! This disk is recommended for those searching for a quality Christian alternative to bands like The Getup Kids, Jimmy Eat World, or The Promise Ring. Also for listeners of The Juliana Theory, 238, Mineral, Pop Unknown, and a host of other lesser-known bands.

Check them out at www.mp3.com/noiseratchet, or go to their website www.noiseratchet.com for more information.