NEEDTOBREATHE - The Reckoning
Although they have been away experimenting with different sounds over recent years, South Carolina rock band Needtobreathe return with their fourth album The Reckoning and provides listeners with a sweet slice of Southern rock.
Adding yet another 14 solid tracks to their catalogue, this record seems to be about finding a balance when creating sounds. Many acts that choose experimenting with sounds and various genres through one album fail due to the inability for a listener to get their head around so much in such little time; this is not the case for this record. The experimentation of sounds actually makes it stand out, and with the implementation of meaningful and emotive lyrics becomes quite unique listen that captures your attention.
There is an equilibrium infused between southern sounds (White Fences) and the Christian rock they have become known for while merging elements of classic rock, blues, folk, pop, Americana and country as well. Drive All Night is a track to highlight for its pop rock feel and a touch of Kings of Leon. There are a few ballads such as the beautiful A Place Only You Can Go where the vocals really have the opportunity to shine through while the harmonies on Able add depth. There is also a balance of quiet versus and more hefty choruses, which begins straight on the first track Oohs and Ahhs. The album closer Learn to Love is one of the most emotive songs, really pulling those heart strings and tugging at you with its words to make the perfect ending to a wonderful listen.
The Reckoning is an important step towards critical and commercial acclaim with its guitars blazing, deafening drums and vocals really making an impact. Each of the songs has the potential to be epic and many of them will be.