Various

The downfall of many a compilation CD is the mixing together of vastly different styles of music in seemingly blatant disregard for the listener’s potentially short attention span. Thankfully, this isn’t the case here. That is, despite the short attention span, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find the various styles compiled here working and playing nicely together. Consisting of socially conscious pop-punk bands, many of whom find their home on Toronto’s Underground Operations record label, The Power of Music weaves together a varied selection of bands on a two-disc set in charity of the OCAP (Ontario Coalition Against Poverty). Although it’s not entirely clear whether the compilation has been issued to benefit or simply raise awareness of the activist group, the cause is certainly worthy enough. Overall, the spirit behind this extensive collection strives to convey that music is an expression of the human condition, not simply a commodity to be bought and sold. Mission accomplished.