Mute Math

If it were 1978, Mute Math would definitely be called a "skinny tie band." With obvious influences in the Police and, um, the Fixx, this New Orleans foursome thankfully updates its sound with ambient textures and some kinetic psych-pop songwriting. Heralded on several religious websites (uh-oh), the songs on their eponymous debut certainly steer clear of the banalities inherent in Christian rock. Except for the obsessive instrumental prowess, tracks like "After We Have Left Our Homes," "Noticed" and "Stare at the Sun" are catchy mixes of '80s cheese and more recent postmodern fare such as the Wrens. Thank God (literally) that Mute Math doesn't let their piety get in the way of their engaging retro chic.