Disengage [PA] (CD - 2007)

Personnel: Justin Unger (keyboards, percussion); Chris Berg (guitar, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, background vocals); Mike Payne (guitar); Billy Bond (acoustic guitar, background vocals); Jonathan Lawson (strings); Greg Bieck (keyboards, drum programming); Shannon Forrest (drums); Kelly Garasha, Brian Condran Hampton (background vocals).

Audio Mixer: Patrick Thrasher.

Recording information: Sundogs Arena, Prescott, AZ.

After a stint with pop duo Across the Sky, Justin Unger reappeared in Prescott, AZ, to lead worship services at the Heights Church. He released his debut solo effort with the help of the congregation. Unger's strong tenor naturally suits his inspirational piano-based pop, and his songwriting is above average. The title track, which describes coming closer to God while disengaging from the world, is a fresh outlook on the duality of the Christian condition. Other tracks describe a similar journey of belief. At his best, Unger resembles Jon McLaughlin's mastery of heartwarming hooks. Occasionally, the tempo slows down and doesn't seem to pick back up to the intensity that it could. Overall, Disengage is a strong debut that lays the foundation for mighty things to come in the future. ~ Jared Johnson minimize