Checklists. Those mundane, repetitious lists skydivers, scuba divers, pilots and the like go through on a regular basis. They are a necessity when you're placing your life in the hands of an external support. It's easy to rush through or become complacent when going through the ritual but all it takes is one small failure and... Well, you get the picture. This Beautiful Republic's Even Heroes Need A Parachute unashamedly reminds us that there's more to life than meets the eyes and our lives are in Another's hands
It's been a while since Forefront broke a new band, but that's part of their mission statement- to paraphrase a particular vintner, "we'll release no band before their time." The talent and effort of these five guys from the Buckeye State is apparent on every cut of their major label debut. It's evident from the lyrics, music and execution of each song that this group transcends being just a band- they are friends who share a common vision and passion for God and music.
This Beautiful Republic's music is straight-forward modern rock: melodic; guitar driven; and polished, yet manages to give listeners something beyond the sound of the moment. Ben Olin's strong vocals and the solid musicianship of the band make Even Heroes Need A Parachute an experience akin to jumping out a plane- exhilarating and intense. Each song is like the aforementioned checklist; a list of things which we can take for granted but forget and a reminder of our dependence on, in this case, Someone greater than ourselves. To further the sky-diving metaphor, the recurring theme of Parachute offers the novice sky-diver assurance that this is a tandem jump with the Master- we are not in this (life) alone.
Much like fellow Toledo natives, Sanctus Real, This Beautiful Republic offers an unabashedly, unambiguous modern rock album that is both hopeful and mature. This album is not lightweight fluff, it's the sturdy stuff that transitions a jumper from the rush of freefall to the safety of the drop zone. Fans of Switchfoot, Storyside:b, Jonah33, Old Man Shattered and Seventh Day Slumber should take the plunge and snag this excellent debut.
Rock N' Roll Honesty| Posted March 29, 2013
This Beautiful Republic's debut album delivers honest lyrics mixed in with a pure rock sound that has a wide appeal. Lead singer Ben Olin's voice is easy on the ears and fits in well with the sound the band is going for. It's a great album that manages to rock out while delivering an honest message about how we need to change the way we view ourselves.
Even Heroes Need A Parachute| Posted April 01, 2010
This Beautiful republic, in my opinion was the best new artist of 2007. Even Heroes Need A Parachute had to be in my top 10 albums of 2007. That shows you how much I love This Beautiful Republic. My favorite songs are: Going under, Black box, and cloud cover. Although i do like every song on the cd, those are just my favorites.
Amazing| Posted July 02, 2009
I don't remember how i came across these guys, but i am so glad that i did. I listened to some of the songs and bought the album. These songs are really good. When I listen to them, i don't want to listen to just one song, but all of them. I like Jesus to the World and New Year the best.
This Beautiful Republic| Posted October 21, 2008
I have had this CD for awhile but it's still one of my favorites! I never get tired of listening to it! The music is awsome, the lyrics are make you thnk and are encouraging! Their music is so diverse and interesting you just want to keep listening to it again and again!
awesome| Posted May 28, 2008
this cd is amazing. it made my top 10 albums of 2007 list. there isn't a bad song on this cd. my favorite song is black box. this is an amazing cd by an unknown band.
Good| Posted February 28, 2008
I thought this cd was very good for a new band. i can't wait to hear the next cd they come out with. i had a chance to see them in concert last summer but i didn't...now i wish i had.
Even Heroes Need A Parachute| Posted September 08, 2007
This Beautiful Republic did a great job on this album. They're very talented guys with a great message. My favorite song is "Black Box".