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I have a friend who listens to Nine Inch Nails, and I really don't think he should. Are there any Christian groups that sound like NIN?

-Josh

I appreciate your concern for your friend. And you're right. Nine Inch Nails is a band to avoid. Trent Reznor, NIN's chief songwriter and frontman, spews out lyrics of hopeless rage, generously sprinkled with profanity and sexual vulgarities.

Even so, it's tough to convince someone that he or she shouldn't listen to a particular band. This can be especially true for fans of NIN and other industrial artists. People often get into industrial music because it reflects some pretty deep feelings they're experiencing. If for some reason your friend is hurting inside, he can probably relate to NIN's rage-filled music.

So I'd encourage you to try and find out why your friend is into NIN. If your friend's taste in music mirrors some inner struggle, let him talk about his feelings. Doing so can gives him permission to express some deep hurt he may be hiding. And if your friend is hurting, he certainly needs your prayers. So pray for him regularly and specifically. He also needs to get to know some other Christians who can offer him caring friendship. If he's not involved with a church youth group, invite him to youth-group activities. Be sure and introduce him to your youth pastor.

Now, about a Christian alternative to NIN. One of the best Christian industrial acts I've heard recently is solo artist Daren Diolosa. Going by the name "Klank," Daren recently released his debut album, Still Suffering (Tooth & Nail). Influenced by industrial bands like Ministry and Fear Factory, Klank is the former guitarist and keyboard player for Circle of Dust. His music is no mere "Christian" imitation. The guy definitely knows his industrial stuff.

Klank also understands the pain a lot of industrial fans feel. In his CD liner, he writes, "The compositions contained herein were written as a direct result of situations I've dealt with personally or have been exposed to. … If you or anyone you know is being abused or taken advantage of in any way … seek help and don't hold it in and let it eat away at you!!!" Overall, the album deals with the emotions a person feels while going through a deeply painful experience. And while the lyrical themes are dark, the song, "Burning," stresses the importance of clinging to your faith even when life is at its worst.

If you give your friend Still Suffering, take time to listen to the album with him. Then, if he's open, talk to him about the hope and healing that can come through a daily walk with Jesus Christ.

Send your questions; we'll do our best to track down an answer: "Tell Me about It," Campus Life, 465 Gundersen Dr., Carol Stream, IL 60188. You can also reach us via fax (630-260-0114) or e-mail (clmag@CampusLife.net).

Copyright © 1997 by Christianity Today International/CAMPUS LIFE magazine.

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