Customer Reviews

Times Like These

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

After winning a 2008 Dove award for "He's in Control" (Bluegrass Song of the Year), Austin's Bridge is back with their sophomore release Times Like These. The CD is produced by Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts.

For those unfamiliar with the band, their music is modern country, a blend of country, pop, rock and a little bluegrass. A full sound is accented by a few chugging riffs and some piercing guitar solos. Two acoustic tracks, "There is a God" and "Hold on to Jesus" standout like a pleasant oasis. Mandolin and dobro add beauty to the former.

The middle tracks are highly motivational. "Dash Between the Dates" was probably inspired by the book, The Dash. The song highlights that it's not the year we were born or the year we die, it's how we live our lives in between that counts.

"Times Like These" and "Love is on the Way" speak to our current dilemmas with hope and encouragement. The former projects a resolute stability, while the latter is filled with infectious energy that complements the idea that we need "to turn this thing around."

Mercy is personified in the first single, "Mercy Never Leaves": "Mercy never leaves when others walk away / Mercy's there for you so you don't ever have to be afraid / When you're feeling hopeless, abandoned and lost / Mercy pleads your case before the cross / Mercy never leaves." It's a comfort to think that mercy is always available; we need never fear. However divine these attributes might be, these are actions that we can model towards others.

"Good Time" brings this to a close with southern-sounding, swamp blues reminiscent of Lynyrd Skynyrd. It's just another example of the slight style changes you find throughout.

Many of the musicians are well-known session players. The songs are finely-crafted coming from a variety of writers. Group members Justin Rivers and Jason Baird wrote "Hold on to Jesus" and "Good Time," with Rivers also co-writing "Dash Between the Dates." Their main contribution, however, and where they shine, are the vocals and harmonies. Jay DeMarcus co-wrote the title track and "Angels."

This is a highly accessible fusion of country and contemporary Christian styles. Though it does not break new ground, it's a near flawless production. Their talent and positive Christian message will find a receptive audience.

I saw Austins Bridge perform with Guy Penrod recently. Unbeknownst to me at the time, I had already heard a couple of their songs on the radio. They are fantastic! Though they are young, they appeal to all ages (I am 56). They sound a bit like Rascall Flatts (also favorites of mine), but they have a style all their own. Their music is very inspirational, and the testimony they gave throughout the show brought tears to my eyes. These are very talented young men, dedicated to spreading God's word. I purchased this CD at the concert, and it is excellent! I plan to buy many, many more.

Austin's Bridge is Justin Rivers and Jason Baird, a Christian Contemporary vocal duo whose big production sound (courtesy of Rascal Flatts' Jay DeMarcus) mixes rock, country and soul. Originally a trio, founding member Mike Kofahl has apparently exited, leaving the pair to front a studio band anchored by their producer's bass. DeMarcus also contributes two songs, alongside the work of several Nashville and CCM pros, and three tunes written or co-written by Rivers and Baird. Neither vocalist sings with the country inflections of Rascal Flatts, and though DeMarcus gives their record a polished studio punch, their passion makes this sound less slick and more rock - something like Journey singing CCM with harmonizing vocalists in place of a single Steve Perry. The songs are tightly written and uplifting, celebrating belief, salvation and the wonder of God's creation. The lyrics will appeal to the faithful, the optimistic, and those who like well-crafted, powerfully sung contemporary rock. Those put off by unremitting hope and blind faith may not be swayed by the album's belief-based answers to contemporary social problems - but you'll have to admit the music is solidly produced and sung with conviction. 3-1/2 stars, if allowed fractional ratings. 3-1/2 stars, if allowed fractional ratings. [©2010 hyperbolium dot com]

If you liked the first album by Austin's Bridge, you'll enjoy this one too. Songs are completely different, but they follow a similar style of country sound with Christian themes for the lyrics. Their music is very reminiscent of Rascal Flats, but they should never be thought of in terms of a "cover" band. It's just helpful to use that description for people who have never heard them before. But the music is great and can stand on its own.