Michael Tait's first release outside of dc Talk is not really a solo effort. In fact, Tait has invested his many talents with three kindred spirits (guitarist Pete Stewart, drummer Chad Chapin, and brother Lonnie on bass) to form, oddly enough, a band called Tait. And Empty is not just about Michael Tait simply flexing his musical muscle outside of dc Talk. It's a melting pot of ideas that produces enough smoke and fire to cook up one winner after another. From the no-holds-barred opening rocker, "Alibi," to the final track, an emotionally wrenching "Unglued," Tait not only sounds like a band, but has the soul and feel of one as well. The sound of a real band comes through in the alluring, hook-laden "All You Got," the riveting "Talk About Jesus," and the anti-racist, anthemic "American Tragedy." There's tightness in the sonic bond here that can't be had through any allegiance with studio musicians. No, Tait is a band, and Empty is anything but. --Michael Lyttle