Java 101 hosted a free show Friday with local Christian bands Nash Taylor Cash and Finding Isaac. The small café was packed with people eager to get out of the cold and see the bands.

Nash Taylor Cash headlined with a set showcasing the talent of each member in the band. Unfortunately, the acoustics in Java are not as great as some of the other area venues, which made it difficult to hear the individual parts of the music.

One thing that sets the band apart from others in its genre is how the band displays its message. Though they are a Christian band, they are not too preachy. They are more subtle, which makes their music appeal to a larger crowd.

The three singers have very different styles and voices, but they come together to deliver quite a show. Drummer and singer Joel Nash has a great voice that is extremely clear and controlled. His voice is similar to an early Chris Carrabba, emotional and heartfelt, but also like Aaron Marsh of Copeland – soft, clear and in a higher pitch.

Guitarist Kevin Singer (aka “Cash”) has more of a rock style to his singing. His tone of voice is slightly scratchy and yearning, which makes him at times comparable to The Used or even Simple Plan.

Matt Taylor sang amazingly on one song that sounded somewhat like Modest Mouse. That style suited the bearded violinist. The three took their unique capabilities to the next level as they harmonized in the song “It’s Not Over Yet.” With it, they served up a tune that sent chills down spines.

Opening for the show was the acoustic duo Finding Isaac. The band had a pretty, yet slightly innocuous sound, but at the same time, it appeared that the guitars were a bit off-tune, which took away from the rest of the music.

The second song played was a cover of “Falling Slowly” from the movie “Once.” Though it was exciting to hear the song, it was lacking without the female vocals. Though it may have been better for them to call on a guest vocalist, it seemed that the crowd caught the hint. Lead by Kevin Singer, various girls jumped in with the missing parts, singing along to the obvious crowd-pleaser of the evening.

Finding Isaac was good, though some of the songs had the cliché style of strumming the same four chords throughout the song, which is somewhat stereotypical for Christian songs.

The show made for a nice night in the cozy cafe, safe from the harsh weather outside. Nash Taylor Cash and Finding Isaac were entertaining and fun.

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