candycoatedwaterdrops

There shall be no sophomore slump here. Plumb's Candycoatedwaterdrops is one of the better modern-rock outings in the world of contemporary Christian music. As with their self-titled debut in 1997, Plumb embrace programming and loops on their second recording. However, this time singer-songwriter Tiffany Arbuckle steps up in the mix and takes center stage, making the band's sound all too human. "Late Great Planet Earth," "Here with Me," and "Solace" testify that Arbuckle and the band can certainly shake the walls. Songs like "Phobic" offer a counterpoint with a dreamy and lush backdrop. Producer Matt Bronleewe is another reason why Candycoatedwaterdrops stands tall, as he balances technology with pop sensibilities ("God-Shaped Hole" and "Worlds Collide: A Fairy Tale"), not to mention contributions from the London Symphony Orchestra. Well written, well produced, this one's a keeper. --Michael Lyttle