Main Review
The band Above the Golden State, marks out a space for themselves inside the CCM industry with the
release of their unique, self-titled, debut album. This album combines classic, up-beat West Coast-style
acoustic, rock-pop sounds with moving, reflective songs of praise and worship. The lyrics are simple
and clear, yet deep and introspective. While folksy and soulful, Above the Golden State is at its core
authentic and environmental. This is one of those rare albums you’ll want to sit back and experience
straight through from beginning to end. It’s upbeat and trendy at times, while moody and melodious at
others.
Above the Golden State reflects on life and God and the impact of His Word (referenced so frequently
throughout the album). With this release, the band offers listeners a sense of Christianity at peace with
itself. There’s no rebellion here, only a humble gratefulness, desperation and awe. That approach is
truly refreshing in an industry where artists can sometimes toe the line between secularism and their
own core beliefs. While I’m usually not one for song-by-song reviews, I want to detail a few of my
personal favorites in the hopes that you’ll gain a better sense of the album:
The song, “Gaze Into Your Eyes” is the second track and sets the album on a beautiful course of
exploration by mixing sunny, radio-friendly pop-rock chords with natural, organic choruses that blend the
singer’s falsetto with careful, instrumental pauses and builds.
“Streets” is a haunting, acoustic blend of seriousness, brokenness and revelation. The lyric, “Love is
real. Love will bleed. Love will heal. Love will need.” reminds you of the impact The Lord has had on
your life and the potential impact He can have on others by way of your testimony. Low, dissonant verses
dramatically intersect with higher, emotionally-charged choruses, relaying a full-bodied presentation of
sound and message.
The track, “Love”, continues on the former theme by way of the band’s signature appeal of powerful
simplicity. In the fashion of Jars of Clay, “Love” lays out a straightforward lyric and builds in a sense of
profound scale and gravity with layered guitars (both acoustic and electric), violins, background echoes
and dance club beats. The song consists of sudden stops and starts; music that’s stripped down and
then built back up. For added emphasis, this song is immediately followed by a raw, dramatic reading of
1 Corinthians 13.
Many other songs on the album have already been reviewed by other industry writers and are equally
great offerings. These listed above are just some of my own personal favorites, but like other quality
albums, there is plenty here to choose from and you’ll probably settle on your own favorites. I
recommend this album to audiences who appreciate music from artists like Aaron Shust, Jars of Clay,
Leeland and Audio Adrenaline. This is truly a solid debut for Above the Golden State.
For more Christian Music Reviews By Aaron, visit: http://reviewsbyaaron.com
Closing Thoughts
Sit back and enjoy Above the Golden State. The album is a pleasant journey from start to finish. Whether
you need a healthy reminder of your faith, a simple break from the world, or a mild spiritual renewal, this
album can take you to that higher place.
Review Written By: Aaron Hassen [aaron.hassen@christianmusicreview.org] on 11/21/2008
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