{$Joy Electric}'s {$Ronnie Martin} basically made a greatest hits type thing with the double-disc collection, {^The Art and Craft of Popular Music}. This retrospective spans eight years of {$Joy Electric} material, highlighting {$Martin}'s favorite cuts, as well as brand new songs. Obviously, the work of {$Depeche Mode}, {$the Pet Shop Boys}, and early {$New Order} are sure ways to {$Martin}'s heart, for {^The Art and Craft of Popular Music} echoes shiny, bright {\new wave} ambience. Dark, muted synthesizers overlap {$Martin}'s boyish, artsy vocals. Classics such as {&"The Matterhorn"} and {&"Ringing Bells"} are standouts, and the kitschy cool {&"Every Nook and Cranny"} is an added bonus. The Christian-tailored {&"Disco for a Ride"} follows suit, while structured, basic {\pop} songs like {&"The Girl From Rosewood Lane"} and {&"Keep Him in Your Thoughts"} showcase {$Martin}'s growing status as a songwriter and musician. {$Joy Electric} is a rare breed, and {^The Art and Craft of Popular Music} pays close attention to what once was without getting lost. {$Ronnie Martin} has carved himself a space inside {\indie pop} -- it might be small, but he's there and that's what counts. ~ MacKenzie Wilson, All Music Guide