When I sang in a Christian vocal group back in high school, the only good, current ensemble music that we could find was being put out by Truth, the veteran Christian vocal group. Sure, it wasn't exactly cutting edge. I'll also admit that most of the songs were very predictable and sometimes trite - but I do remember that those songs translated wonderfully to the stage, giving a strong, easy to understand message to our audience who would only hear us once, not over and over again like a recording artist.
Truth, which started in 1971, had a rebirth of sorts with their previous album, One. The baton was passed to a new generation of vocalists who spruced up the Truth image from a traditional traveling choir to a smaller, more focused pop ensemble. One changed many listeners' mind about Truth being stuck in the '80s and brought in a wider span of fans.
When I listened to Truth's new album, Never Be The Same, it seemed that a little bit of the newness had worn off. Being produced by Don Koch (best known for production with the Truth offspring, 4Him), I expected this album to have just as an updated sound as 4Him has managed to have the past few years. I did find more modern touches on this album with their extensive use of programming, effects, and some great percussion and vocal grooves. The tarnish on my view comes from some trite lyrics here and there and the overuse of the old Sandi Patty approach to songs - light vocals at the beginning of songs that slowly lead to a overdone chorus at the end. This approach can be effective, but it started to get tiring after a few songs.
While the overall view wasn't totally picture-perfect, the vocals and most of the songs by themselves are very enjoyable. The album's opener seems right at home with radio airplay. With an Avalon-like, upbeat groove, "Wonderful World" jumps right in with what Truth does best - smooth group harmony.
One song takes a decidedly alternative turn. "Through The Noise" has an edge, both in lyrics and in instrumentation. With a mix between '80s and '90s rock influences, this song speaks of trying to reach God through the "noise" of our modern lives. This sort of creativity and chance-taking shows the potential of Truth's current members to catch a younger audience.
"Say The Word" is straight-ahead pop. I really liked the inclusion of acoustic guitar laying some of the rhythm and the organ in the background - these touches gave the song a sort of organic, '90s feel. The chorus is the kind that will probably get stuck in your head for awhile.
The album really shines on the last three tracks. The first of those, "The Bridge Will Appear," is led by Jason Breland, one of the heirs of the Truth legacy (his father, Roger, founded Truth). Jason's strong, agile vocals lead this upbeat song that could rival 4Him or Avalon any day. Also of special mention, "Let Go" features the ladies and has a real R&B flavor.
The last song, "The Glory Of The Blood," blends the best of both worlds. With a modern, mysterious sound, this ballad/anthem presents the gospel beautifully. While very easy to understand, the lyrics are not trite at all, but instead they face the gruesomeness of Christ's death unflinchingly and paint the picture of His forgiveness and ultimate love.
All this brings me back to my original point. Truth will always be best at being a traveling ensemble that has a ministry of presenting the gospel in song. They aren't always the most modern or popular recording artists - I have to admit that their talents are probably better showcased live on stage. With that said, I would still recommend this album to fans of 4Him, Avalon, First Call or other vocal ensembles.
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