Kevin Max

Stereotype Be
Forefront Records

Following on the heels of his colleague Michael Tait, Kevin Max  (Kmax) is the second member of the multi-faceted trio dcTalk to release a solo album. Unlike Tait’s project, “Stereotype Be” bears little resemblance to its dcTalk origins. This album is more a reflection of the music that has influenced Kmax through the years, including everything from Elvis Presley to Queen.

Many people will find the lyrics on this album difficult to interpret. Kmax is an artist at heart and often uses his words abstractly. This may be a hurdle for some listeners but should not prevent them from listening for the underlying principles of the songs. “Be” encourages the listener to be the person that God created him or her to be. Songs like “Angel with No Wings” and “I Don’t Belong” deal with the struggles sometimes experienced in personal relationships.

As mentioned earlier, the album reflects the music that has shaped Kmax. As a result, the songs are very reminiscent of European singers like David Bowie and Sting. “Stereotype Be” is a true representation of Kevin Max — the poet and the musician. It is refreshing to see an artist reveal so much of himself in such a new and creative way.