Main Review
Grammy-nominated rock sensation Red return with their highly anticipated release, Until We Have Faces. The intriguing
title, inspired in part by a C.S. Lewis work, does well to describe the album’s theme of searching for true identity. Sound-
wise, their orchestral-infused nu-metal sound reaches new heights- the hard rockers are heavier and the ballads more
delicate.
Unlike Red’s previous projects, that opened with beautiful yet haunting piano motifs, Faces rips right into meaty guitar
riffs. “Feed The Machine” is without question Red’s heaviest song to date. Towards the end of the track, things calm down
with strings and a choir. While the following track is less intense, “Faceless” still has moments of fury, as in the bridge
when vocalist Mike Barnes unleashes his chaotic vocals. “Faceless” captures the album’s theme of feeling “hollow,” but
offers a resolve for the emptiness- “We are the faceless/We are the nameless/We are the hopeless/Until we have faces.”
A few tracks sound a bit recycled, but on others Red pushes outside their norms. One such song, “Who We Are,” has a
pop/punk-influenced rhythm. Another, “The Outside,” has a melody that stylistically differentiates itself from the rest. Yet
both tracks still stay true to Red’s sound.
Faces certainly brings the rock, but it also offers contemplative ballads. Radio-ready “Not Alone” offers hope in dark world.
The album’s epic closer is a poignant ballad titled “Hymn For The Missing.” The piano-based track begins somberly,
laced with strings. Lyrically it’s cryptic and vague, “Where are you now?/Are you lost?/Will I find you again?” Assuming the
song follows the album’s theme, it seems Barnes is singing about himself losing his way.
Closing Thoughts
Until We Have Faces is Red’s most mature album to date. Not only will this album be pleasing to longtime fans, but is
sure to expand their popularity in the mainstream arena- reaching people who need to hear Red’s message of hope the
most.
Review Written By: Cara Fisher [cara.fisher@christianmusicreview.org] on 1/13/2011
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