5 Stars Isn’t Enough…
Posted July 06, 2010
By SarahFine_NRT, Staff Reviewer
When Newsboys announced the departure of longtime band member and lead vocalist Peter Furler, no need to say just how shocked fans were, but not nearly as shocked as they were when they announced who would be ‘stepping up to the microphone’ this time around… none other than dc Talk-er himself, Michael Tait. The initial response from Christian music was welcomed, yet fans weren’t so sure, even going as far saying that the band should have just called it quits --the boys weren’t going for it.
Everyone who has ever had the privilege of sharing the stage as a Newsboy has left their mark on the band. From the spirited John James, savvy Paul Coleman,. and quirky Phil Joel, each member of the group has left their imprint on the band, and in his last year and a half as Newsboys front man, Tait is no exception. Not only have fans been pleasantly surprised by the fresh sound, but I think everyone else was somewhat blown away by what the ‘new Newsboys’ could accomplish together. This being proven in their first album back since Furler’s departure, the aptly named ‘Born Again’.
Your going to hear right away that this album has a heavier vibe than any of their pervious material (think more along the lines of ‘No Grave’ from their 2009 release, ‘In The Hands Of God’), obvious by songs such as the solid title track and ‘One Shot’, one of the hookiest songs on the entire album. ‘When The Boys Light Up’ will no doubt become a beloved fan favorite for this group of guys, sharing the story of Michael’s invitation to join the band, with the classic whimsical Newsboys lyrics everyone has come to love so much.
As fun as these guys lyrics can be at times, they also know when it’s time to get down to business, this being one of their most lyrically deep albums together. ‘On Your Knees’ covers the topic of a prodigal returning to their faith, while ‘I’ll Be’ is a reminder to the listener that even when the whole world has forsaken you, God hasn’t and He never will. ‘Build Us Back’ will remain one of the memorable tracks on this album for me, the perfect anthem for anyone in the middle of a storm, sharing the hopeful message of restoration and unfailing love.
Other highlights on this album include the upbeat and witty ‘Miracles’ (one that is sure to become a favorite to hear live), and ‘Escape’, co-written by longtime Newsboys songwriter, Steve Taylor. ‘Born Again’ comes to a close with their powerful rendition of renown worship track ‘Mighty To Save’, and, to the surprise of Newsboys and dc Talk fans alike, a remake of 1995’s ‘Jesus Freak’ with KJ-52 on the rap end. As a HUGE dc Talk fan, and someone who thinks ‘Jesus Freak will always remain untouchable, I am giving the band some serious credit… they nailed it flawlessly and I am VERY impressed. It’s a fun way to end an amazing album, and no doubt 90’s Christian music fans will enjoy the new mix.
I had high expectations for ‘Born Again’, and they were all met, if not surpassed. Michael Tait has certainly left his stamp on the group, and they will defiantly not be the same after this album. This is by FAR one of my favorites of 2010, and catalog wise, it ranks up there with the likes of instant classics such as ‘Going Public’ (’94), ‘Take Me To Your Leader’ (‘96) and ‘Go’ (’06). 5 starts just isn’t enough for this smashing album, more like a well deserved 10.
Duncan, Jeff, Jody, and Michael have proven to the “doubters” that the Newsboys have still got it. Longtime fan or not, give this album a shot… your in for a treat. View All Music And Book Reviews By SarahFine_NRT | View SarahFine_NRT's Profile
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