MuteMath Reset

I always listen to EP's with some hesitation. It makes you wonder if the label is too insecure to release a full CD of the artist's music.

So, when I received the EP for MuteMath's Reset, I didn't expect much.

There are seven tracts on Reset. This is a stunning debut. If you think this will be just another (somewhat Christian) rock CD, you are mistaken (as I was).

With the opening instrumental, Afterward, you get a mood-setting taste of what is to come.

Control is the second track which features driving guitars and strong vocals. Somehow, Mutemath has managed to weave some sensational electronic elements to soften this song.

"So many days I've thrown away, but you just say it's ok. You don't recall my past mistakes, you just say it's ok." It's OK is a kind of ballad but still with enough force and drive to keep the CD moving. This song is enough to make everyone re-evaluate their relationships and see how they measure up to what they could be. This song reminded me of one of my favorite lines from a film. "Too many things in life are mediocre, love should not be one of those things." (Advice from a Caterpillar)

Peculiar People is the most Bible-ly song on the CD. If you haven't read much of the Bible you probably won't get what is actually being said in this song. Regardless of your personal history, this almost reggae-rock-electronic jam is fantastic.

Progress is one of the best rock songs of 2004. One listen and you will be immediately drawn in and entranced by this recording. "...Like an instrument for a song, like a sun for tomorrow's dawn. Every moment of time is just an answer to find what you're here for, what you breathe for, what you wake for, what you bleed for..." Lyrics and music like this is what life is all about. (I wish I would have written this song.)

We are promised a full-fledged CD release from Mutemath in 2005. We can only hope that they double the songs on the full CD.

Mutemath has a great future moving people's feet and hearts with their music. Listen.