Reviewed by Jonathan Langley

I am glad that bands like Lifehouse exist. I love the fact that Christian bands are slipping in alongside all the secular bands of the soft-rock scene, getting good production, marketing and a shot at the charts. I enjoyed the debut Lifehouse album that had the gigantic US hit "Hanging By A Moment". I like all that. In theory. In practice I wish there was just one Pearl Jam and not the seemingly endless throng of bands emulating everything from Eddie Vedder's vocal style to his earnestness, but somehow lacking his bite, sincerity or talent. If you are a Lifehouse devotee, do not fear: this album is not a radical departure from 'No Name Face'. Truth be told, this is the same album. You'll love it. Buy it. The standout single, "You And Me" is catchy, though no "Hanging." and the album meanders through inoffensive songs with vague lyrics about life and love up to "It Has Only Just Begun", which may or may not be an oblique confession of spiritual struggle. This is pretty bland stuff and those who like their rock to actually rock may need to look for something with a little more oomph.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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