Main Review
The look in Aaron Keyes' eyes brings to mind an early explorer, standing at the front of his boat, looking for new worlds.
Yet he would likely cast himself in the role of the ship instead; boldly moving forward towards an unknown land, guided by
a promise of treasure and a captain who's already been there. When you're Not Guilty Anymore, there's nowhere to go but
ahead.
"You Never Cease To Amaze Me" is a song of awe that suffers a little in the arrangement - the music is a bit faster and
louder in relation to the vocals than I would've liked. "Forever Worthy" has a neat bend on the verse line ends. I can see
why it's becoming so popular - it's easy to sing and beautiful in its simplicity. "My Soul Finds Rest (Psalm 62)", co-written
with Stuart Townend, sounds just like it was ripped out of a hymnbook. (In fact, it uses a chorus from a hymn the name of
which escapes me.) If I tried to quote my favorite passage, I might as well post the whole thing. Seriously.
"Elohim Creator God (Blessing and Honour)" uses various names of God as given in the Bible. The song has a kind of
soft lullaby feel to it, almost affectionate. "I Am Yours" is perfect for corporate worship because the song invites everyone
to sing about various aspects of God ("Can anyone stand in praise, can anyone stand and say") "Like Jesus" is simple
and high-energy. I could see this possibly being covered in a kids worship album, possibly even danced to.
"Not Guilty Anymore" speaks gently from God's POV, and reassures us that forgiveness is complete. It's beautiful, but the
way Aaron goes high note on the end of some of the chorus lines wasn't necessary. I bet this song is better acoustic, so
here's hoping he records it that way with Relevantmag. "Nothing Less Than Beautiful" ascribes to God beauty and
faithfulness. It's a song that proves that you don't need several unique verses, pre-chorus, chorus and bridges to make a
good lyric.
"Help Me Lord", a plea for mercy and peace, uses very simple words (the longest is "tenderness") and is a perfect song
for missionaries to translate and teach to their congregants. "Where Are You Now?" is at once a prayer of desperation in a
desert place and a statement of faith. The juxtaposition of the two statements ("I am broken, worn out, barren/You are
Sovereign") is probably one of the most difficult, yet powerful things one can say. "Not What My Hands" is the oldest song
on the album, and the only one Aaron did not (co)write. The simple arrangement of guitar, piano, violin and occasional
tambourine retains all the mixture of solemnity and joy a hymn of redemption and reliance on God should bear.
Closing Thoughts
Jeremiah 29:11-12 reads "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to
give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you." (ESV) Unchanging
truth married to stirring melodies, Not Guilty Anymore invites listeners to partake in God's promises of grace, and
celebrate His glory. Aaron has found the "keyes" to life, and we would do well to follow him through the door.
Review Written By: Laura Chambers [laura.chambers@christianmusicreview.org] on 8/21/2010
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