Is it wrong to rock for God?

Detractors of the Christian rock genre have often criticized the non-secular artists for being overly – sentimental, downright cheesy or, in Creed’s case, complete crap.

One of the few differences separating mainstream artists and their non-secular counterparts is that Christian artists sing religiously and limit their vulgarity.

-The Supertones, an Orange County ska quintet, proves there indeed is good rock in the Christian genre, and that contemporary Christian music is not all Pearl-Jam-wannabe wimp-rock like Creed.

“Hi-Fi Revival” is a strong album that mixes in the more laid back alternative rhythms, bits and pieces of James Brown style funk (see “Superfly”), classic ska grooves and blasting dance beats.

The Supertones, typically known for their dominant horn section, stepped in a different direction with their latest CD, writing with more of an emphasis on soul and less of ska.

The horns of Darren Mettler and Dan Spencer, which are now more of a muscular structure than a supporting vertebrae, are proof that The Supertones’ latest effort is their best to date.

And in a time when ska is said to be more dead than the laughs at Carrot Top’s stand-up act, The Supertones’ new sound is like a rush of invigorating life.

One of the more memorable cuts includes “Welcome Home,” a sure-shot upbeat track that is fueled by short, down-stroke ska riffs and an energetic horn section.

Listen for “Attitude,” a catchy little number reminiscent of George Michael’s “Faith.”

Only in a few sparse regions does the latest Supertones effort veer into discourse.

“Hold Onto Jesus” is as tired and overdone as one would expect from a song with such a cliche name. This is the same kind of flaccid music that has plagued, and will continue to plague, the Christian genre for years to come.

Aside from that blemish, the “Hi-Fi Revival” is a good disc, a valiant effort from a band which many consider to be a cornerstone of the Christian rock scene.