Shades of Gray (album)

Shades of Gray is the second studio album and the first EP released by Christian alternative rock band The Choir (known as "Youth Choir" at this point), released in 1986.

Recording history

Because the band was gearing up for a 20-city tour in support of Steve Taylor, the EP was recorded in a furious rush to be ready in time, hence the "demo" feel to the songs. Youth Choir never intended to release an EP, but the record company acquired it as the resolution to a contract dispute, which freed the band to be signed by Myrrh_LA later that year.

While brief, Shades of Gray is more musically diverse than the band's debut, because Youth Choir is now a foursome. The quality of the songs also attracted praise from not only critics, but other musicians such as Sam Phillips, who seriously considered covering "All Night Long" for her album The Turning. Although most of the drums on the album are once again drum machines, Steve Hindalong makes his official recording debut as the band's drummer on "15 Doors," which proved to be a live favorite.

All five songs were later included as bonus tracks on the CD release for Chase the Kangaroo.

Track listing

All lyrics written by Steve Hindalong. All music composed by Derri Daugherty.

1. "Fade Into You" – 3:58
2. "15 Doors" – 3:05
3. "More Than Words" – 2:36
4. "Tears Don't Fall" – 4:02
5. "All Night Long" – 5:01

Personnel

• Derri Daugherty - Lead vocals, guitars, piano, voices
• Steve Hindalong - Drums, vocals, percussion
• Tim Chandler - Bass guitar, vocals
• Dan Michaels - Saxophone, lyricon

Dan Michaels was selected to join the band after Youth Choir's roadie pulled his name off a church bulletin board. The band sought to emulate Romeo Void, which also featured a saxophone player

Production

• Producers - Derri Daugherty and Steve Hindalong