CD. With the release of their sophomore opus Engage Pax217 extends the vibe from their successful debut Twoseventeen while managing to reach loftier heights. Where the prior tended to run a bit hot and cold Engage is a full-throttle rock/reggae/rap excursion from beginning to end. Cuts like Tonight and I ll See You are examples of prevalent songwriting for today s generation. These cuts remain more subdued on the verses but are highlighted by angst-ridden guitar-driven choruses. Move on This is an example of the band s reggae influence; guitarist Jesse Craig lays down a staccato line highlighting the cut s effectiveness. Other gems include the drum-driven Melody or the emotional What Is Love that shifts dynamics to sonic delight. Engage is a disc that takes Pax217 to the next step both musically and lyrically making a statement that says plenty. ~ Steven Douglas Losey Rovi