Reviewing music is my passion.  So why take time to talk about this band and their music?  It's unique in many ways and surprisingly fresh for my older ears.  Of course, as a former critic now retired, I don't take time to listen to new musical sounds the way I used to.  But the circuitous route that this CD took to find it's way to my hands, and the fact that I'm a frustrated cellist are both worthy of note and my time to write today.
Not all the tracks are equal in quality, a trait that can be odd, but also endearing.  I can tell that "Grown Up Lullaby" was a labor of love, although the harmonies in the instrumentals are not in keeping with the message.  The singing is beautiful, lush, and heartfelt, much like the rest of the album.  "Cry for Freedom" is garage-band material, while "Grace in my Pocket" has a raucous energy that brings to mind beach bands of the 60s.  Why can't we hear more of that excitement in other so-called Worship music?
Finally, I love the cello, while I hate that I gave it up for soccer in my youth.  Yes, I'm in shape today perhaps because of that choice, but to make the sounds heard on song after song...I would put on a few pounds just to have the priviledge of playing like this guy.  Ah, the sins of my youth.  So we have ranged from classic string sounds, to happy energetic tunes, to deeply felt singing.  Not bad for a small effort out of Virginia.
                            Read more...