So, what kind of music is this, being sold by this Joe Tritz guy? Well, it's Christian Rock. But I think it's a little different than a lot of the other stuff. Let's see... if you take a hard-rocker-guitar-hero-wannabe and stick him in a keyboardists body, influenced by 70s and 80s rock with some more recent CCM influences, then you'll get an idea what to expect when you listen to the music. Add the Christian lyrics and there you go.
Joe is an independent solo artist with six kids, a full-time job, and a lot of stuff bouncing around in his head. Understandably, it has taken quite a while to finish this initial CD project, Avant-God. However, one reason why it has taken so long (9 years) is that he wanted to get it right, and produce a final work that he was proud of and that others would enjoy. Perhaps it is a biased opinion, but the mission, in his wife's opinion, has been accomplished. But give a listen, and decide for yourself.
Joe is 39. Growing up in the 70s and 80s, it helps explain some of what will be heard. But it is not all a throwback. There are some progressive twists, as well as some more low-key, melodic songs as well. As a Christian Rock artist, there is a clear, positive, Christian message with carefully crafted lyrics.
Every artist believes they are unique, yet every artist is comparable to some others, even if in small ways. One of the unique things noticed in Joe's music is that different influences are apparent in different songs, and some influences only rear their head momentarily and will be gone before you can say "what did that remind me of?". Not every song sounds the same, yet there is a connective style. One song will have a heady 80s rock influence, while the next will show Joe's piano background and a Billy Joel-ish sense to it. Some of the background vocals and little production elements suggest a combination of Yes, Styx, or DC Talk. Some songs may remind the listener of Michael W. Smith, while the next will demonstrate a progressive rock feel.
This is not to say the CD is completely eclectic. There is a little something for everyone, but Joe truly believes that the listener will connect with not just a song here or there, but most or all of the songs. For this reason, Joe has opened up every song for a music sample so the listener can judge for him or herself.
Joe thanks God for the opportunity to present his music. He is thankful to his wife, Wendy, and his six children (Erin, Amanda, Alex, Jacob, Jonathan, and Thomas) for their inspiration. His music is a trustworthy addition to anyone's music collection. And while the primary audience is Christian, he also invites others who do not generally listen to Christian music to give his music a listen.
Thanks to anyone and everyone who is willing to give it a chance.
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