The Return of a Legend
Posted July 04, 2011
By gizmodad,
After announcing his departure from the Newsboys in March 2009, one of the most well-known and unique voices in the industry, Peter Furler, returns with his debut solo album On Fire. After more than 7 million album sales, multiple Grammy® and Dove Award nominations and 25 No.1 hits with successful pop/rock band Newsboys, Peter confidently handed the group over to his band mates, as God lead him and his wife Summer to pack up their things and move to Florida. For the next two years, Peter found creative freedom to write what was placed on his heart. He soon announced work on a solo project, teaming up with acclaimed producer Steve Taylor, former Newsboys band mate Phil Joel and Seth Mosley from Me In Motion. This album is a testament to Peter's immense faith in God, his hard work and dedication to the industry and his pure talent as a musician.
Peter Furler's On Fire project opens up with "I'm Alive", a bouncy, enjoyable, techno influenced track that will please fans of Newsboys' earlier work. It is a song written in gratitude of our forgiveness and freedom. Following this song is the infectious first single "Reach", which is already a hit at Christian radio. This contagious modern pop tune reminds us that even though God created the heavens and the Earth, he cares for each of us individually. The powerful reminder in the message and the inspirational lyrics really set this song apart. "You reach for me / with a love quiets all my fears / You reach for me / like a Father wipes away the tears / so many people in this world / but i hear You calling out my name / You reach for me / now I'm never gonna be the same."
"Glory To The King" is a worshipful anthem written by Peter at his grandmother's funeral, speaking of the day when we will bow down to Jesus and our tears will be wiped away. Everything about this song is flawless, from Peter's incredible vocals to the heartfelt and emotional message. "Never Ending Love Song" is an upbeat, playful song that thanks God for all He has done for us, and talks about how we will never stop singing our love song to Him. The chorus had me singing along in no time, making this song one of the highlights from the album.
"Matter Of Faith" is a passionate rock anthem that speaks of having faith in God, saying that without faith it is impossible to truly believe in Him. The following song "All In Your Head" was my favourite from On Fire. With its pulsing bass line and catchy techno dance beat, this song encourages listeners to "forget what's behind and go where you're lead" by making the most of chances we get in life.
“Closer”, featuring Steve Taylor, is an infusion of funk/pop beats that asks the most relevant question of all, “Are you ready for the future?”. The diversity of sounds that are brought to the table in this song definitely make it worth the listen. Lyrically, “Faster and Louder” is autobiographical, following the story of the creative freedom Peter found when writing the album. The clever lyrics during the first verse add a comical perspective to the song, “Chill out / you’ve earned a break / time to start another page / artists of a certain age / writing ballads / eating salads // there must be something more / who we getting mellow for?”. Musically, this song ticks all the boxes through the catchy whistling incorporated with the melody throughout its entirety.
The following song “Psalm 23” was something that I found to be an interesting move from Peter Furler. It is literally the words of Psalm 23 married up with a pounding dance beat and auto tuned vocals, which is not necessarily bad in this case. Although the lyrics are not original, the manner in which Peter has musically altered the song is certainly remarkable! “Hold On” is an enjoyable pop/rock track that encourages the listener to “just believe” through the hard times that God will bring them through. The closing track “Greater Is He” acts as a fitting benediction to the album. Featuring guest vocals from Phil Joel and Bill Furler (Peter's father), this song ends the album in an upbeat, worshipful manner, a poignant reminder that God is powerful and worthy of all praise.
Peter Furler's debut solo album On Fire is certainly an enjoyable listen, and a must have album for 2011! It is an absolute joy to see a fellow Aussie and Christian music veteran back doing what he does best! This album's catchy techno flavour was extremely enjoyable and like nothing I've ever heard in the industry before. Peter Furler is back, and he's here to stay.
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