"Master Of Styles" - what an appropriate title! "The Urge" presents an incredible mix of musical diversity. Steve Ewing (Vocals), Karl Grable (Bass), Jerry Jont (Guitar), John Perroni ( Drums and Backing Vocals), Matt Kwiatkowski (Trombone), Todd Painter (Trombone and Keyboards), and Bill Reiter (Sax), promote a mix of rock, ska and rap. Their sound resembles that of an experienced band, promoting the talents of each individual within the band. Produced by GGGarth, the Urge opens with potent guitar play, and pumped horns, in "If I Were You," reminiscent "S.O.S." by the Police. One starts to get a feel for where the Urge's influences came from. In my book, clear powerful guitar, and an associative range of vocals, separates the men from the boys. It's evident that Steve and John vocalize their passion and thoughts. A ska flavor with a sort of heavy metal blitz, a song about a change in reality that promotes progress and the battle of avoiding stagnancy.

My personal favorite is "Straight To Hell." I like the rap mixed with heavy guitar. The vocals are smooth, with funky strings and some soul and intensity that rocks the house. "Indentity Crisis" attempts to follow the same strategy, and does well, but doesn't come through with the same clarity, although Steve plays hard for MC status. The change of pace and tone with the trombone in the background gave me the "Urge" to hear more. Nick Hexum is featured in "Jump Right In," an upbeat reggae, poppish track, about feeling the need, overriding the conscious, and jumping right in, you know what I mean. Both songs are excellent.

"S.L.O.B.," "Gene Machine" and "Played Out" are definite temper tantrums, expressing frustration with ignorance, and suppression of anger that can lead to inappropriate outlets such as drugs and obnoxious, pompous behavior, while applying their talents in the alternative wave that is sweeping most countries - the opportunity to release negative energy via the pit. Young adults seem to revel in the banging and slamming, with the amazing ability to minimize personalizing, the sometimes brutal punishment to the body.

"Closer" is an enigmatic appreciation of the feelings associated with the experience of something new and fresh, whether it's a relationship or a life experience. The ability to mix the variety of instruments proves to be a fantastic blend. JJ plays with no prejudice, attempting to reach every ear. His ability to crossover shows his veteran status, and Karl's ability to maintain the pace with the bass is outstanding. "My Apology" needs no apologies to be made for Matt and Todd's horn play. One can feel the freedom of expression in this track, as well as the focus and intensity of the music. The pressure of guilt can become overwhelming to some. We search to rid ourselves of the guilt which usually results in the embarassment of a poor decision.

"Divide And Conquer" is another free flowing track with a message. If a whole is to divide to accomplish an objective, the divided are not as strong as the whole, and may experience narrow vision with less insight and wisdom, and not be able to maintain direction or redirect it's efforts as the divided tires, which may lead to an ugly creature.

"Praying For Rain" is the longest track, a semi-mellow tune about one of those nights where one just cannot get to sleep. "I want someone to play me the sound of growing crazy." Lyrics with the grinding interpretation of sleeplessness and insanity together. Finally winding and whining down with the sound of the rain, the music softens and ends the album.

"Master of Styles" is an excellent mix of ska, rap and rock. Each band member has honed their talents well. The ability to change pace and style is outstanding. Intensity and passion are two incredible ingredients that are represented in the guitar and horn play, as well as the vocals. "The Urge" can bring it in hard, relax on the soft beat, and somehow do both within the same track. I definitely "Urge" you to support this album with a purchase.