Neon Steeple

Recording information: Sound Emporium, Nashville, TN; Spencer Creek Studio.Photographers: Mary Caroline Mann; Zack Arias.Two years after the dissolution of the David Crowder Band, its frontman and songwriter issues his solo debut, Neon Steeple. In his promo video for the record, the artist calls this music "folktronica." The term goes back to music journalist Jim Byers writing about Badly Drawn Boy. Momus' 2001 album was titled Folktronic, and as a "genre," early records by Beth Orton, Tunng, and many others fall under its umbrella. But this is a first for CCM. Etymological origins aside, Crowder's description is somewhat accurate, at least for its purposes. While "Neon Intro" is a rootsy acoustic number, it's immediately followed by massively looped handclaps, dropped synth basslines, four-on-the-floor drums and programs, acoustic guitars, banjo, Dobro, and fiddle in "My Beloved." Bluegrass melody aside, the sheeny production and rhythmic tack move it directly toward mainstream radio