First Things First: First of Many To Come Posted March 21, 2023 By RyanAdams_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need To Know
Rock band Consumed By Fire are rising stars in the Christian music scene. They've released music since 2015 with hits like "Lean On Me" and "I Need You, God." Most notably, recently, their breakthrough song, "First Things First," plants them firmly in the radios of Christian households. Their newest EP, First Things First, named after that lead single, includes more passionate rock songs.
What It Sounds Like
The band opens with a more rock-centered song, their second single, "Goodbye Ole Me," which features a more energetic musical style while retaining their commitment to holy truths. The rest of the record follows the lead single, "First Things First," in musical approach. Their music has a strong percussion element, similar to bands like NEEDTOBREATHE and Ashes Remain. The group's consistent musical style complements their spiritual message perfectly, resulting in a cohesive and impactful listening experience. Fans of modern Christian contemporary music will enjoy this EP.
Spiritual Highlights
The lead single, "First Things First," is an exemplary track to show the band's focus on scriptural truths and relative songwriting. The opening song, "Goodbye Ole Me," echoes 2 Corinthians 5, as new creations in Christ. "Hope Says" is another standout track, featuring a more contemporary sound that encourages listeners to persevere through life's challenges by placing their hope in Christ, as described in Romans 15:13. Consumed By Fire ensures that their music is rooted in biblical foundations and is sure to resonate with many believers.
Best Song
"First Things First" played a crucial role in establishing the band's reputation in the music scene; without it, they may not have received the warm welcome they deserved upon the release of their EP. It's the best song on the EP, too. The soft songwriting approach to life's struggles while harmonizing with slowly captivating music makes for an encouraging and beautiful song. It's an EP highlight, without a doubt.
Consumed By Fire delivers an EP that reaches out to those needing encouragement in their faith. The songs within remind us to focus on Jesus, endure with hope, and continue to place faith in God to get us through life. The opening track needs to be more accurate in musical expectancies, as the rest of the EP is less energetic and more consistent in its own style. But the piano rendition of "First Things First" is a beautiful and intimate closing track, ending on a good note. Christian music fans have a new and relatable EP to encourage them throughout the year.
