A band that names its debut disc “End of Silence” is sure to make some noise, but landing a Grammy nomination is stunning.
The modern rock band Red received the nomination in the Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album category.
The Grammys will be awarded in Los Angeles on Feb. 11.
“End of Silence” opens with a deceptively mellow piano intro that segues into a wild, pounding tempest, complete with churning guitars and howling vocals.
However, the neat orchestration of the opening track is echoed in numerous songs, giving the disc a very melodic feel.
The first radio single was “Breathe Into Me,” which hit No. 1 on the Christian rock charts.
The track describes desperation and brokenness — “This is how it feels when I ignore the words you spoke to me, and this where I lose myself when I keep running away from you.”
This prompts lead singer Mike Barnes to literally scream for God’s help.
The second single was “Already Over,” a mid-tempo piece about having nothing left to lose.
The track is balanced by the disc’s closer, “Already Over Pt. 2,” which offers a hopeful conclusion amid soft strings and acoustic guitars.
The disc sweeps from assertive guitarwork to melodic strings — sometimes mixing the two to good effect.
It explores toxic friendships in the assertive “Let Go” and running from problems in the angst-ridden “Hide.”
Overall, “End of Silence” is a full-force exploration of brokenness and the relief of redemption that deserves to be heard.
On the Web: www.redmusiconline.com
‘Live Like We’re Alive’Last year was a good one for punk fans, partially because of Nevertheless.
The group’s debut disc, “Live Like We’re Alive,” offers plenty of lively fun but also manages to pack some good lyrics.
Josh Pearson’s energetic vocals certainly don’t hurt, either.
The disc opens with the group’s first radio single, “The Real,” which calls out to God for help amid despair.
It’s good, driving pop punk.
“Patience and Devotions” describes focusing on God.
The title track recommends taking action because “we’re here only for a second.”
“Lover” starts as a ballad but builds in intensity as it describes divine love. “Let It Fall” says we’re all “bruise and destined to lose,” and asks that grace fall on us.
“Perfect Chemistry” slows things down as it acknowledges that we all face problems with relationships.
The disc ends with the ballad “O’ Child,” which urges a turn to God.
Many Christian punk bands tend to focus on relationships and daily life, hoping that a message of faith seeps in through the cracks.
Nevertheless isn’t stealthy. Its message and music are bold.
On the Web: www.neverthelessmusic.com
Today's Praise is a roundup of news and reviews from the contemporary Christian music industry.
