Main Review
The debut album by this San Jose based quintet, collectively called I Am Empire, and follows a similar pattern and sound
expected from a band on Tooth & Nail Records. Produced in Nashville by Rob Hawkins with such artist credits as
Disciple and Fireflight, Kings displays the band’s rock format through emotional displays of anger management while
also recognizing God’s power and the amazing grace shown in the Savior, Jesus.
Led by vocalist Austin Lyons, the album starts out with the song Brain Damage. His vocal tone may be compared to Kevin
Young of the band Disciple in this track and with the common elements of rock, from the guitars led by Andrew Stanton
and Dan Otis, to the drumming styles of Eric Martin, Brain Damage only prelude to the heavier rock sound displayed on
this record. Backing the lead vocals and accompanying on bass is Joshua Case, adding another essential element of
rock. The next couple of songs, Heart Attack and Saints & Sinners show a release from struggle and abandonment that
presents itself in a sound style reminiscent of the 1980’s big hair rock band days.
Hammers & Anvils offers the listener a display of the band’s skills in a slower tempo. Through all the heartache and pain
recognized in the writer, he recognizes God as one to always be there regardless of the situation. “Oh it’s hope that has
embraced me, and my God that won’t forsake me. Sweet Jesus you’re amazing. You save me every single time I fall
down. Rain down your hammers and anvils, let’s build something great for the world to see….Rain down your love.” The
next track, Love & Despair starts out with a short guitar solo before introducing the drums and then the vocals in this
almost ethereal tune. Characteristically, this track displays an almost praise and worship-like sound, worthy of reaching
for the sky and waving cellphones in the air. To The Moon follows, bringing back the 80s rock sound and transitioning into
The Elevator to pick up the pace halfway thru the album.
Next up is Dig You Out, more of a pop-rock track that slows the album again before followed by the power ballad Take Me
Away. You’re A Fake features great guitar riffs towards the end of the track and may be a reason for the decision to
release it as a current radio single. Next to last, Foxhole picks up the pace again, showing off more of the band’s guitar
driven rock in this anthem, stating “don’t stay, don’t stay, I never knew you anyway.” This song, along with the final track
with it’s southern rock style, It’s Not Fair, goes back to the history of Austin Lyons and how he was writing in response to
his biological and adoptive stepfather leaving his family behind.
Closing Thoughts
In closing, as a returning reviewer for Christian Music Review, it was a pleasure to review this album as it did grow on me
and was quite catchy after listening it thru several times. Recommended for its music and production quality, it does lack
a bit in the message department. Hammers & Anvils seems to be the richest in regards to bringing forth the message of
God’s grace and the amazing love shown thru Jesus, but if you’re a fan of rock bands, such as Disciple and The Almost,
I'd recommend at least taking a listen to the album. As far as creativity is concerned, the band and album is
representative of the expected sound to come out of Tooth & Nail Records.
Review Written By: Mike Laxton [mike.laxton@christianmusicreview.org] on 1/31/2011
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