Friday, October 06, 2006
Flyleaf
Originally published at Keepin' On:
“What’s your take on Flyleaf?” an online acquaintance asked. I’d never heard of them – not surprising in an area where the Christian radio station plays music from artists like Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman – but his query prompted me to look deeper.
This young band’s self-titled debut album pulses with edgy rock and vocals that range from breathy to ethereal to all-out screaming. Yet unlike some of their tour partners (bands like STAIND, Breaking Benjamin, and 3 Doors Down), Flyleaf’s lyrics portray positive messages that clearly demonstrate their faith. Though there’s pain in life, as lead singer Lacey Mosley’s dramatic story of finding Christ on the brink of suicide shows, there is One who can and will help you overcome it.
From the hard beat of “I’m So Sick” to the softly romantic “So I Thought,” Flyleaf is just under 34 minutes of angst, pondering, sorrow, and triumph. Two songs particularly showing this triumph are the second single “Fully Alive” and “Cassie.” “Fully Alive” tells of one woman living life to the fullest despite pain, and “Cassie” is a tribute to the Columbine martyr: “Do you believe in God/Written on a bullet/Say yes to pull the trigger . . . and Cassie pulled the trigger”.
“All Around Me” and “Red Sam” celebrate God’s presence. “I can feel you all around me/Thickening the air I’m breathing/Holding onto what I’m feeling/Savoring this heart that’s healing.” “There you stood/Holding me/Waiting for me to notice you/But who are you/You are the truth/Outscreaming these lies/You are the truth/Saving my life.”
Blending the styles of P.O.D. and Evanescence with their own unique twist, Flyleaf’s not for everyone, but those who enjoy hard rock with powerful themes will not want to miss out.
Reviewed by Katie Hart