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*WARNING* Pre-review rant:
The first thing that caught my attention is the fact that these guys are on ForeFront, one of the most despised labels in the Christian Rock Industry (Disclaimer: Thats my opinion based on a lot of things, maybe i’m the only one that despises them). With the exception of The Benjamin Gate, this is the first new and relevant band they have signed since the late 90s. They do still have DC Talk, Toby Mac, Audio A and Rebecca St. James, so it’s not like they were dead, but those artists have been a part of ForeFront since its inception. ForeFront did pave the way for the likes of Tooth and Nail and other Christian Rock Labels, but many of their very talented artists barely made it past 2 albums. Reading between the lines about many of these now defunct bands will help you understand why I blame the label.  I also have info directly from the mouths of two of the former artists –i used to be a concert junkie and would hang around and talk to guys. It was a pretty easy thing to do at Christian concerts a decade ago– Anyway, maybe ForeFront will make a comeback, until then …

Rest In Peace: Smalltown Poets, The Normals, Big Ten Revival, Grammatrain, Code of Ethics, Bleach, Pax217, Steve, Satellite Soul, Considering Lilly, Eli,  and most importantly… Seven Day Jesus.

Now, onto the review of This Beautiful Republics’s debut album Even Heroes Need A Parachute.

Musically, when they rock, it’s pretty strong; when they chill, its average. Lyrically they’re very encouraging and positive, with little  but some cliche use. They are definitely not ashamed to let you know how strongly they feel Christ will change your life, but they don’t do it in an “in your face” kinda way. The songs are laced with grace, hope, and a chance for a better tomorrow.

Reminds me of: The Classic Crime, Day of Fire (sometimes)

Workout Mix Worthy:
Casting Off
Going Under
Right Now
Fears and Failures (my fav)

Annoying:
Black Box

The rest falls between “Ok” and “Decent”. Slow Down is one of those that the verses are annoying but the chorus is strong and enjoyable. If you’ve only got the budget to buy one album and you like Republic’s rock stuff, pick up the Classic Crime instead; as a whole, it’s much stronger.

Overall, for 7.99, it’s a good buy. I’d say *** out of *****. Which is good enough to have on your shuffle without worrying about having to skip the songs.

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Category : Music