Reaching is brother/sister duo LaRue's 3rd CD release on Reunion Records. Though their previous albums had fantastic character and talent, this album expands musically, instrumentally, and it most notably progresses lyrically. The song descriptions by Phillip and Natalie LaRue prove that immediately.
This album focuses on deeper issues of Christianity, and their presentation of these are bolder than ever. Every song deals with personal issues the brother and sister have faced. Of course the issues, though personal to the band, are also issues we all face in our own lives, which makes it so easy to relate to and appreciate.
However, though the album is deeper lyrically and progressed instrumentally, the basic fun roots of LaRue's sound are still there. "Tonight" is a great way to start off the album. It is fast-paced and immediately sets the mood. It is a touch heavier than other LaRue work (besides their other new song "Peace to Shine," later described), which made it really neat to hear at the beginning as an introduction. Natalie's vocals are such an attraction and when harmonizing with Phillip's, they create a great sound as their unique voices complement each other.
"Unite" is slower paced and focuses more on the vocals of Phillip and Natalie, which in turn enables the listener to focus more on the amazing lyrics. The song is about being united in Christ. As they sing, "Now we stand together singing praises of surrender. Lord, heal our heart and make us one," it has a wonderful focus.
There are quite a number of songs that are slower. "Ok to Cry" is, overall, a slower song but the chorus picks up pace that adds a bit of punch in between. The lyrics are amazing and share such a great message. As Natalie explained it, "There can be hope in falling apart. There is peace and hope in realizing you are weak. It's then you realize... God saves you in spite of yourself."
"Trinity" focuses on the lyrics. It is wonderfully written, amazingly sung, with beautiful instrumentals. Phillip and Natalie explained a bit about the song:
This is our attempt to sing conceptually about the Trinity, about the wonder and the mystery of something that we don't understand. Through this song we learn how the very thing we don't understand is the very thing that saves us.
This is also a fantastic example of how far they have progressed and deepened in their lyrics.
"Without You" is a striking ballad, almost a love song to Jesus. It is mainly about how important a daily relationship with Him is. The song features only Natalie singing, with simply a piano and later, cello and violin.
As mentioned before, on the other harder side, "Peace to Shine" takes on a heavier feel with more aggressive guitars, especially in the chorus. This is a bit of a different sound for LaRue, but they pull it off very well, and it adds a bit of diversity to the album.
Others like, "Everything," "Summertime," "Lift Up," and "Reaching" all are upbeat and catchy tunes, each as great as the other. These remind one of their older work because they show the LaRue roots instrumentally, and they've got that toe-tapping feel to them.
The last song is unique. Natalie describes "Angels and Peace" as being "more like a lullaby." It focuses on vocals, there are beautiful muted/faded instruments in the background and a striking bell throughout. Towards the end, the LaRue's vocals blend and harmonize. It is such a remarkable song and a perfect way to end the album.
This is a fantastic album. I highly recommend it to anyone whether or not a LaRue fan in the past. It is diverse musically and the lyrics are a great attraction. Also, as if the album wasn't good enough already, it has computerized enhancements. Extra features include a photo gallery, wallpapers, screen savers, buddy icons, and videos for "Reaching" and "Driven." And check out the bonus track of Phillip and Natalie singing in the studio.
5 tocks
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