BDA comes from Greenville College, which also produced Jars of Clay. It should come as no surprise, then, that their debut album has some Jars of Clay tone to it, or that two band members list that group among their chief influences. But there is also a rougher, edgier sound to their music that makes their sound somewhere between pop rockers Third Eye Blind, and influential smartpop band Toad the Wet Sprocket.
"Love is Here," reminding Christians they are never alone, perhaps is the best example of this song. Other listeners to this disc thought this was a Jars song, until Matt Jones' vocals kicked in. "Truth Found You," my personal favorite, flips the traditional idea of people finding God, pointing out that He actively seeks time with us.
"Don't Be Long" feels like a stripped down version of Third Day, while "All To Thee" is the ballad of the disc, almost hymn-like in its approach and sound. "Mystery of You" lyrically recalls Rich Mullins' "Hard to Get", pointing out that God is impossible to understand fully, and testifying about man's need for faith.
BDA will resonate with young adults and high schoolers, and those who are looking for pop with an edge to it. Better Days Ahead? Very possible, if this album is any indication.
3.5 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2004Reviewed by Bert GanglOutside of Nashville, Greenville College in Illinois may well boast one of the more impressive resumes in Christian Music. The institution is home to the Agape Festival, one of the longest-running Christian music festivals in the country. Its music department is one of only a handful of institutions offering a major in Contemporary Christian Music. And the college's alumni roster includes a…
