Sanctus Real Is Back
Posted March 02, 2010
By JJFrancesco_NRT, Staff Reviewer
After two years since their previous album, Sanctus Real is back with their fifth national album, "Pieces of a Real Heart." (Why they didn't release this in time for Valentine's Day, I can't figure out)
Most people who listen to AC or CHR radio are likely already acquainted with lead single and opening track, "Forgiven." The song went to number 1 on CHR and is still climbing at AC. The song is by far the band's most mellow opening track, which could immediately turn of some of their avid fanbase. But that is an indication of what this album is, a much softer side of Sanctus Real. (That will likely have their fans wishing they weren't so hard on the soft sound of the album's predecessor)
But that isn't to say that Sanctus Real has become another MercyMe. They still have their rock sound. Track 2 introduces us to "These Things Take Time" which has been used in their live setlist since the summer.(Although it sounds like they've retooled it since) It's got a rock sound and definitely sounds like Sanctus Real, even if it isn't as edgy as their hits have been. "The Way The World Turns" follows next and then the emotional "Lead Me" which has AC Hit written all over it as it is a plea to God for the singer to be able to be a good leader to his family. With the decline of leadership in husbands/fathers today, this could be a got way to remind them of their duty.
"The Redeemer" is next, which is a good and catchy song but older Sanctus Real fans will likely forget all about it after the opening notes of the next track. That's right, Sanctus Real reminds us that they still can write good rock with the next track, "Take Over Me." It's a stunningly good song and classic Sanctus. It might have been better as the opening track but I guess putting it in the middle of the album has a logic to it.
Next follows another rock track, not quite as edgy as the previous but still good. "I Want To Get Lost" is a catchy and radio friendly rock track that should please both ends of the Sanctus spectrum. Putting it right next to the album's hardest track might not have been for the best but it still sounds great.
The album then proceeds with mid-tempo songs "'Til I Got To Know You" and "Dear Heart." Both are good songs and are definitely not throwaways.
Perhaps the best slower song on the album is "I'll Show You How To Live," which is next. There's an emotion in this that just feels so genuine.
The album closes on a softer note with "Keep My Heart Alive," which picks up speed as the track progresses.
Lyrically, Sanctus Real is as strong as ever tackling issues from God's forgiveness, the desire to know the answers of life, the aforementioned message of "Lead Me", and a desire for God to make our hearts reflecting of him("Take Over Me" "Keep My Heart Alive"). There's nothing to complain about here.
Ultimately, the album's lack of rock is the only reason I don't give this a 5/5. It's still Sanctus Real, brilliant lyrics, catchy melodies, and quality that stands above the typical AC/CHR fare and makes you take notice. While the laid back sound is one I hope they shed next time, in favor of a sound more along the lines of hits like "I'm Not Alright" and "Turn On The Lights," this will do for now. If you're interested in a Pop/Rock album that rises above the rest, Sanctus Real is still your band. It may not be their best yet, but it's still good. View All Music And Book Reviews By JJFrancesco_NRT | View JJFrancesco_NRT's Profile
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