Not long ago, I went to see Audio Adrenaline in concert, and Out of Eden opened for them. Their set was filled with hip-hoppish songs that encouraged the audience to groove with them and dance along. This was reinforced by the fact that they had more dancers on-stage than singers. Overall, I wasn't really impressed. Although the music did have a trendy beat, it wasn't really my style of music.
With OOE's recent radio release, "Different Now," it is apparent that not only are the sisters different now because of Christ, their music has also taken a new direction. Now more than ever, they have taken the role of the Christian alternative to secular female groups with the same type of music. The new branch of music is a change for the good, as older Out of Eden fans can still enjoy their music, and they have also increased their fan-base by spreading their horizons.
"Different Now," the opening song on the album, is an upbeat number with catchy horn tunes and a positive Christian message. Following "Different Now" is "Day Like Today," which will please fans of Out of Eden's old sound. It hosts an encouraging message that Christ will be your help even in the day of disaster. This is Your Life moves to a quieter atmosphere with the worshipful melody, "Meditate." It doesn't stay in that mood for long, however, as it immediately jumps back up with the feel-good, sing-a-long Gospel song, "Now I Sing."
"I don't appreciate you telling me/the way that I should live... You act like all I am to be is just a sexy, sexy thing..." This bold song, "Showpiece" reminds me of the old school dc Talk song, "That Kinda Girl," which, if you know me, is a good thing. The beat is catchy and fun, and will make you want to press the repeat button. Another highlight is Out of Eden's testimony of sorts, called "Rolling Stone." Its catchy and upbeat chorus is worth a second look. The title song, "This is Your Life" is much of the same, with Danielle, Lisa, and Andrea's voices blending well.
Out of Eden has given their overall sound a makeover, and it has made some great improvements. Their pop music isn't for everyone; if you are a die-hard rock buff, you should move on, you won't find much here. With Toby Mac as a guest vocalist and changing of up and downbeat sounds, you will find variety, but still many of the songs start to sound the same and get old quickly. But for Out of Eden fans and pop-lovers in general, This is Your Life is one that you shouldn't overlook.
Mark's Score: 3.5/5
Other coverage for this album
The Rebel Base 2002Reviewed by Josh HurstThere has been a lot of hype surrounding the release of Christian pop/dance trio Out of Eden's latest project, This is Your Life. Part of it is due to the fact that Out of Eden has not recorded any new music in a couple of years. Part of is due to early industry reports, which heralded This is Your Life as Out of Eden's best record to date. Much of the hype is likely due to the recent success of…Similar sounding releases
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