CD reviews
By Lara Hendrickson
Features Editor

The Nadas — Transceiver
Playboy magazine called the Nadas “the best college band you’ve never heard of.” With Iowa natives Mike Butterworth on vocals and guitar, Jason Walsmith on the same, Jon Locker on bass and Tony Bohnenkamp on drums, the Nadas have made a career out of their college pastime, filling clubs across the country and selling more than 50,000 albums through Authentic Records.

Transceiver is the band’s fourth studio album. Produced by Todd and Toby Pipes of Deep Blue Something (think “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”) and mixed by Stuart Sikes (The White Stripes), the latest album is a mix of rock ‘n’ roll with a touch of country roots.

Basically, The Nadas are blue-collar rockers, in their dirty jeans and T-shirts. Their lyrics reflect being in love, breaking up, missing their families and driving past the cornfields of Des Moines.

But don’t let that discourage you.

Ten Shekel Shirt — Risk
Ten Shekel Shirt has infused its traditional acoustic rock base with an electric sophistication that has been influenced by the British pop invasion.

Not afraid to chart a different course or venture outside normal boundaries, the band has taken to exploring new musical landscapes while staying true to their faith. From the opening chorus, Risk makes the listener feel challenged and a little less comfortable with their own comfort.

Produced by Brent Milligan, with one track covered by Grammy-award winner Monroe Jones, the album is one of shiny guitar hooks and confident and rich vocals.

In a press review, Milligan said Ten Shekel Shirt was the most rewarding experience he has ever had.

“Their level of talent combined with a vision for connecting with people and being relevant to the culture challenged me for the whole process,” Milligan said.

The Christian-based quartet’s lyrics sweetly promote the idea that living life is about reaching out and loving.