Inside is the first project for Whiteheart on Curb Records, their new record company. Curb is offering Whiteheart the opportunity to break the barriers of distribution that sometimes can stifle Christian music. With two of the singles, "Even The Hardest Heart" and the title track "Inside" already on the Christian charts, Curb plans to release a single (as yet undetermined) to the mainstream market this month.
The maturity of their music and ministry is clearly demonstrated by their ability to speak to the everyday issues of life. With two previous strong albums like Tales Of Wonder and Highlands, I was curious how they would follow them up. Just seconds into the sheer power of the first track "Inside," newcomer John Thorn on bass (and, of course, Jon Knox on drums) made short work of any concerns I had about the rhythm section changing with the departure of former bassist Anthony Sallee. The overall tone is very different than the heavily-produced and layered sound on the previous albums; this disc has more of a clean, live sound. Producer Ken Scott didn't listen to any of Whiteheart's previous work (except one time through Highlands) and brings a fresh approach. This album is going to sound better in concert than any of the others-there isn't much that can't be duplicated live. The only down-side to this is that there isn't as much vocal work on this recording, compared to the others.
This project is definitely a return to the raw sound that Freedom gave us. I could liken it to the vibe and energy of groups like the 77's and King's X. The noticeable difference between these groups and Whiteheart, however, is the message. Gersmehl and Smiley remain the primary composers, but everyone is more involved this time around; guitarist Brian Wooten shares composing credits on half the songs. I should say at this point that Wooten's guitar playing has really matured over the last few years. On the ballad "Speak Softly," the acoustic work, along with Gersmehl's lyric and vocals, is almost haunting. The solo in this song is reminiscent of the majestic work of Toto's Steve Lukather.
Florian's vocals are as strong as ever. He tells stories that range from loneliness and pain, anger and fear to invitation and hope. However, the overall theme can be summed up in these lyrics from "Come One Come All":
No walls or barriers Not for members only It's a kingdom without end So come in as you are The broken and the lonely Your heart must be born again
There are 10 tracks and musically the range is similar to previous albums, with most of the record being heavier, and a few ballads. But on Inside, the rock songs rock harder and the ballads are more emotional and piercing. I would recommend this album not only to current Whiteheart fans, but also to all those who have ever complained that Whiteheart could never be a real rock band. If that's been your impression, you're in for a surprise with Inside.
More from White Heart
1990Souvenirs
1993Highlands
1994Nothing but the Best - Rock Classics
1994Nothing but the Best - Radio Classics
