In a world where teenyboppers like N'Sync and "rock 'n' roll bands" like Limp Bizkit dominate the radio airwaves, it is nice to hear a truly great band getting some significant radio play for once. The band that I am talking about is a 3-piece rock band called Lifehouse, which started as a community praise and worship band but has quickly become one of the biggest pop/rock bands in the world.
The main reason why Lifehouse is such an incredible band is because of their lyrics. All of the songs on their debut album, No Name Face, were either written or co-written by frontman Jason Wade. Wade's lyrics are better than most bands that you'll hear today, as he tackles spiritual matters with honesty that both Christians and non-Christians alike can relate to. "Sick Cycle Carousel" deals with getting caught up in sin, a familiar topic to be sure, but Wade brings some fresh ideas to the table. Other lyrical highlights are "Trying", which was born out of Wade dealing with his parents' divorce, and "Breathing", on which Wade proclaims, "Cause I want nothing more/Than to sit outside heaven's door/ And listen to You breathing."
On top of the impressive lyrics, Wade throws in some intricate layers of guitars and distinctive vocals. His bandmates do a great job on drums and bass, and the polished pop melodies make the songs of Lifehouse very catchy and appealing to all. Despite the occasional feeling of sameness, every song on No Name Face is a masterpiece, and this album is a work of art that belongs in everyone's collection.
Josh's Rating: 4.5/5
Other coverage for this album
The Rebel Base 2001Reviewed by NathanIn this day and age, when Britney Spears, Kid Rock, Limp Bizkit, and their various copycats and hangers on dominate the radio dial, it is refreshing indeed to see a genuinely good band like Lifehouse getting some significant air time. The band's lead single, "Hanging By A Moment" deservedly climbed the charts, and their best song, "Sick Cycle Carousel" didn't do too badly either. Lifehouse is…The Phantom Tollbooth 2001Reviewed by Andy ArgyrakisAlthough they may not sound like much more than Creed wannabe's, Lifehouse is able to produce a dozen solid tracks which run the gamut of radio friendly smashes, to aggressive ballads. Their message is similar to that of Creed's, probably due to the fact that singer/songwriter Jason Wade grew up in a home where both of his parents were Christian ministers. Wade doesn't claim to have all the…Similar sounding releases
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