All New and Uplifting
Posted September 16, 2015
By JJFrancesco_NRT, Staff Reviewer
The Pitch:
Good news: All Things New have an all new album!
What Works:
The album is a fun pop endeavor that knows how to have a good time praising the Savior. Lots of fast, upbeat choruses and enchanting hooks put an engaging shine on the musical numbers.
While a bit thin at just ten tracks, All Things New makes each one count. "You Love Me For Me" opens with a groovy guitar riff and gang chants, building to a memorable pop hit. The title track explores similar themes of individual worth and potential and the profound grace of Christ in our lives.
Softer piano-based numbers like "Believe" and "Changed" shine every bit as brightly as the faster anthems, rounding out the intimate and personal testimony of faith that is this album. The latter especially reaches some soaring sonic heights, with a chorus boasting a lush musical backing to passionate vocals.
In an age where more pop/rock bands are emerging every year, All Things New fits in well with the surge of new talent. If you've been enthralled by the likes of acts like Everfound and OBB, there will be much to like with the new offering from All Things New. The passion and energy behind these songs makes it hard to not sit back and enjoy the work of their hearts.
What Needs Work:
Fitting in well with other bands is a great thing, but it could also be an obstacle to truly owning a musical identity. At times, it did feel like identity was something this album could have used a higher dose of. While never boring, the similar themes and musical approaches kept some of the songs from standing apart from each other.
Closing Thoughts:
All Things New is a talented group and has created an enjoyable, accessible record that is truly fun and uplifting. It might not break new musical or lyrical ground, but it satisfies. It might want a bit for a diverse and distinguished musical identity, but it has integrity and honesty that make the lyrics relatable. All in all The Good News is a success, and a recommended release that's sure to kick off an interesting autumn in Christian music.
Song to Download Now:
"Changed" (Get it on iTunes here.)
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