For some it might come as a shock that mainstream LDS music doesn’t appeal to everyone. One listener’s spiritual experience might be another’s elevator music.

So, naturally we’re pleased to see Mormon Music add some breadth to its depth. Thanks to artists like Alex Boye and Mark Hansen, the message is making its way into new territory.


Alex Boye, a Londoner with singles in Europe’s top ten has released a self-titled four song preview through Deseret Book. And it will change your perspective on LDS music.

I expect this new CD to debut at Stake Dances the world over. It expresses the Gospel message to a hip-hop beat more often associated with popular music. And no, this is not another ‘mormon rap’, it is rife with genuine soul and a moving beat.

You can get moving to Boye’s driving dance beats for $5 (for the four song preview) from Deseret Book.

On the complete other end of the dial, Mark Hansen is packaging the message in what can only be described as a morphing of Queensryche and Afterglow. Hansen rocks with searing distortion and thoughtful ballads.

Mark Performs often in the Utah and Salt Lake Valleys, and many shows are free. You can download samples of his music (and even guitar tabs) from his website. Hansen’s newest CD, One United Generation can be had from his site for $13 shipped.

So, if your idea of LDS music is different, than these artists may just be what you’ve been looking for. If you’re satisfied with your Saturday’s Warrior, than you’ll probably want to pass on these. Both CD’s are clean, though neither fits a standard definition of “Sunday appropriate”.