Resolute Potential| Posted May 03, 2015
Joining all the new pop/rock bands defining a new generation of CCM is Elliot, a pop/worship act newly signed to DREAM Records. There usually has to be an "it factor" to separate the memorable acts from the bland copycats. Fortunately, Elliot's sound pushes them towards the former.
What Works:
Brothers Casey and Corey Parnell front a pretty refreshing worship act here. Dabbling in synth pop at times, the album blends emotive crooning and upbeat balladlike melodies to create a signature sound. On the surface, it shouldn't feel as original as it does. Chanted "woohs" and "oohs" are popular right now. Guitar-driven pop is a safe choice for worship. Even electronically-tinged beats sprinkled in put the band in good company. Yet somehow the effort transcends any limitations to truly resonate.
I suppose this is where that "it factor" comes in. Everything just seems to click here. The piano intro to "All Things New," coupled with a soothing vocal performance and upbeat musical support, make the song an all-around beautiful endeavor. "I Don't Walk Alone" is a more rousing and anthemic number that sets itself up as single material. Boasting a powerful chorus that builds on the calming vocal style with joyful shouts of praise, the song soars high and aims for the sun.
"Starlit Sky" is another highlight here with a memorable opening leading into an all-around hit of a song. I could definitely see this one becoming one of the album's most popular songs. "In The Safety" turns up the rock energy a few notches while still fitting the band's sound like a glove. Providing some needed versatility, the song reminded me a bit of Citizens and Saints at parts while still sounding distinctly Elliot.
Parnell's vocals also compare favorably to Ryan Kirkland's (Between the Trees) at times. Yet there's no doppelganger effect here. The album is an all-around fresh debut from a promising act that I hope to see the join the ranks of the new elite in Christian pop rock.
What Doesn't:
With everything flying on all cylinders, there really isn't much to have a legitimate complaint about. I suppose, taken as a whole, the stylistic similarities of many of the songs keep some tracks from standing out in repeated playthroughs of the album. With the overflow of talent, subsequent albums could become landmark releases if some of the tracks are made more distinguishable from one another while still standing together to create a unified album.
Closing Thoughts:
Destined to be one of the year's underrated treasures, Resolute is a shining achievement from a great band. The soothing vocals coupled with the upbeat music pairs in a way that many bands try but often fail to accomplish. While everything is played close to the vest, there's just something about these guys that just makes the music better. Keep an eye out for what they'll do next.
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