Beauty from Pain 1.1

iTunes Review

After steadily rising through the Christian pop/rock ranks, Superchick signaled their crossover intentions by releasing 2006’s Beauty from Pain 1.1 via secular giant Sony. Upgrading an earlier version of the album, this release makes the case that the co-ed combo is ready for the mainstream. The band takes a frenetic style of punk-pop, tosses in some hard-rock balladry, and adds hip-hop texture for occasional contrast. Complimenting this sonic mix are reality-based lyrics, positive in focus but mindful of adolescent fears and pressures. Singers Tricia and Melissa Brock sing with a defiant (even snotty) edge, though always in the service of a good cause. Galvanizing numbers like “Anthem,” “It’s On,” and “One Girl Revolution (Battle Mix)” wave the banner of self-empowerment over pummeling tempos and blazing guitars. At times, the group sounds like a teen crisis center hotline set to music — “Suddenly,” “Courage” and the stirring “Stand In the Rain” offer encouragement to those in need. Boy/girl problems are dissected with a welcome dose of humor in “Bowling Ball” and “Wishes.”