Don't Let This EP Pass You By
Posted February 26, 2014
By SarahFine_NRT, Staff Reviewer
The name Carrollton may not immediately ring a bell with dedicated Christian music listeners, but I have afeeling that is quickly about to change.
Comprised of members Jordan Bailey, Michael Loy, Jeremy Menard, and Justin Mosteller, the group formed in 2008, and quickly began to make a name for themselves in the indie worship circle under the name Mosteller (Justin's surname.) After signing with Centricity Music in 2013, these worship leaders took to tape and immediately hit the studio to record their debut EP, Breathe In Deep.
There are six powerhouse tunes on this EP, unless you have the actual CD. For those who purchase the physical version of this project, calling this an EP is awfully generous, considering it is packed with a whooping nine songs--far more than the usual three or four in a standard extended play. The lengthy showcase is led by the track "Pass You By." Immediately, shades of NEEDTOBREATHE come to mind as Justin's silky yet gruff voice, combined with the folksy, down-to-earth feel their style provides, paints a clear picture of this group's melodic vibe.
"Holding Me" tells the tales of a girl who clings to the promises of God, despite the tumultuously unending seasons of pain in her life. It tells an relateable story, while still providing a praise filled ray of hope: "If You're the one who walks on water, if You're the one who calms the sea / If You're the one who holds the heavens, then I believe You're holding me."
"This Is Life" melds southern infused folk with the subtle hint of wannabe rock in a way that captures your attention, while the band's roots as dedicated worship leaders at their respected home churches present themselves fully in the hymn-like anthem "You Are Faithful."
"Wash me white with Your red" sings the band in the track "Red," likening the blood of Jesus to that of an unending river of grace. I'll admit, this style of music isn't particularly my cup of tea, but the way they present this track leaves me surprisingly interested, even wanting to hear more.
"Death Has Lost Its Way" is the final proper tune on this EP, and leads the way to some of the extra front porch sessions (AKA acoustic tracks). The aforementioned is the only song re-recorded, while three new tunes find themselves met with the simplicity of mere guitars and vocals, "Bring Me Back Home," "Rest" and my personal favorite of the three, "Found."
Closing Thoughts:
On Carrollton's Facebook page, the band states that they want to make an impact in the world of Christian music, and that they do with this EP. Fans of groups like Third Day and Rhett Walker Band will eat up this new batch of passionate worshipers, and following some time and growth, I can see them becoming a potential mainstay in the industry. With lyrical depth and the musical chops to back it up, this is definitely a band to keep an eye on.
Song To Download:
"Red" (Get it on iTunes here.) View All Music And Book Reviews By SarahFine_NRT | View SarahFine_NRT's Profile
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