Before coming to Christ, my perception of Christian music was limited to traditional hymns and older songs that my mother enjoyed. But, after a friend introduced me to modern Christian music, I was surprised by its contemporary sound, like what I had heard on mainstream radio.
At the time, my musical taste leaned towards post-grunge bands, such as Lifehouse and Creed, so I was surprised to learn that there were also Christian post-grunge bands, such as Skillet and Kutless.
I first discovered Skillet through their songs “One Thing” and “Savior” and Kutless through “Grace and Love,” “Treason,” and “In Me.” Over the years, I have continued to listen to both bands.
When evaluating a band's music, I pay attention to how well they create powerful ballads. In this area, Kutless excels, with lead singer Jon Micah Sumrall's voice fitting seamlessly with the band's anthemic, worshipful arrangements.
In the last decade, I've explored heavier music and have evaluated rock bands based on their sound. Again, Kutless stands out to me, mainly due to lead singer Jon's ability to adapt his vocals to the band's powerful guitar riffs and intense drumbeats.
If you're a rock or worship music fan, take the time to listen to Kutless and find out why they are a band worth your attention. Here’s a mix of their ballads and rock songs to add to your playlist. Enjoy.
“Words of Fire”
Kutless, a band formed in 2000, initially established itself with a more complex rock sound. Over time, their sound evolved to become more focused on worship music. But, unlike many bands that mellow out as they age, Kutless has done the opposite. After a long break, the band’s returning to their rock roots with their new single, "Words of Fire." The track showcases lead singer Jon’s powerful vocals and the band's signature hard rock sound. It is a high-energy song that’s perfect for a workout.
“Bring It On”
Kutless's album, Surrender, features rock and worship music. The album's lead single, "Bring It On," exemplifies this balance with its high-energy, rugged rock sound ideal for working out. It deals with life's struggles and challenges and encourages listeners to rely on God's strength and guidance to overcome them.
In 2017, Kutless took a page out of Seventh Day Slumber's playbook and released, Alpha/Omega, a covers album of current-day worship songs, such as "Great Are You Lord," "Cornerstone," and "King of My Heart." The band's rock influences are evident in their renditions, making a great listen for any rock fan.
“Carry Me to the Cross”
I didn’t immediately connect with Kutless' song "Carry Me to the Cross" when it was released on their 2014 album, Glory, as it was softer than their previous work. I was more accustomed to their heavier sound. But, after listening to it repeatedly a couple of years later, I came to appreciate the song. The lyrics express the singer's longing to be taken to the cross where Jesus died for our sins and find forgiveness and peace.
"What Faith Can Do"
In 2009, Kutless released the powerful ballad "What Faith Can Do," a song that achieved great success. It reached the top of the Christian Adult Contemporary chart and the Top 40 on the Adult Contemporary chart. The song is about the strong faith that can provide during difficult times and encourages listeners to believe in God.
I’ve shared this song with many friends who are going through hard times. And, often, I find that they make excuses instead of facing their struggles. I play this song for them as a source of inspiration and encouragement. The lyrics "It doesn't matter what you've heard/Impossible is not a word/It's just a reason for someone not to try" are particularly meaningful, and I hope they resonate with those struggling. If you’re feeling stuck, I hope this song will inspire you to keep moving forward.
"Promise of a Lifetime"
"The Promise of a Lifetime" compares to "What Faith Can Do." Both songs are about encouragement and faith. "The Promise of a Lifetime" speaks about God's promise that He's always there for us, guiding us through difficult times and giving us the strength to keep moving forward. It reached No. 1 on the Christian Rock chart and No. 2 on the Christian Adult Contemporary chart, while "What Faith Can Do" focuses on the power of faith in overcoming challenges and difficulties in life.
"Strong Tower"
Many fans and industry experts consider the song staple, “Strong Tower,” one of the band’s most famous songs, reaching No. 1 on the Christian Rock charts. It’s about faith’s power and the safety found in God during a person’s dark season. The lyrics encourage listeners to turn to God as a "strong tower" for protection and strength. The lyrics also refer to Proverbs 18:10: "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."
“Strong Tower” is from the album of the same name. It’s worth mentioning that “Sea of Faces,” another song from the album, is also a must-have for your Kutless playlist.
“Run”
Kutless dropped their self-titled debut album more than 20 years ago. In 2022, the band dropped an anniversary EP featuring rerecordings of the band’s hits from the album. One of those songs is the hit single “Run,” a motivational anthem about running towards one's faith and persevering in facing life’s challenges. It encourages the listener to push forward and not lose faith.
Paul Phillips is a Canadian journalist with 20 years of experience writing and editing digital and print content. He specializes in health, fitness, nutrition, and travel. He loves music, movies, and, of course, living for Jesus.
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