Genre: Pop/RockLabel: Fervent Records/Word Records
Release Date: September 8, 2009
Rating: 4/5
While not considering myself a huge fan of the group, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed BarlowGirl’s past work, as their catchy tunes and beautifully harmonious vocals are quite good. Their version of “O Holy Night” from a WOW Christmas album a few years ago is one of my all-time favorite Christmas songs. I’m a sucker for great harmonies, and the Barlow sisters continue to churn them out.
On their new release, Love & War, the progression with regards to song-writing and instrumentation continues, as the girls have crafted a more musically-mature work that delves into some deep issues lyrically. One clear example of this is “Tears Fall,” a moving piano piece about the devastation of abortion.
Oh what have we lost because we chose we'll never know
And loving you is better than feeling alone
And all our claims to freedom have become these heavy chains
And in the name of rights we keep filling nameless graves
The melody is haunting and the song is a powerful expression of the destruction caused by the act without attacking people. It just captures the sadness of such a tragic component of our world.
Other than this song, the rest of the album is a lot of what you’ve come to expect from these girls: remarkable vocals, moving harmonies, and just enough rock mixed in with their pop sound. From the opening rocker “Come Alive” to the beautiful piano rock of “Beautiful Ending” to the emotive “Sing Me a Love Song,” the band has settled in completely to their sound.
“Love is Marching” is a beautiful take on the power of love, exploring how love, not might, is what will change the world. It’s juxtaposition against “Running Out of Time,” which encourages believers to stand for the truth (This is war, so pick your side), is interesting. The balance between loving others and standing for the truth is a difficult line sometimes. Both are vital, however.
The only miss on the album in my opinion is when they really try to break out of the mold they’ve created for themselves. I commend the attempt, but “Hello Sunshine,” which closes out the album just felt tacked on the end to me, especially following “Tears Fall.” Just didn’t fit.
Overall, though, this is a very solid, diverse addition to the growing BarlowGirl library. I’d say it’s their best work yet. The band is growing and maturing, but continues to give their fans more of what they love. Great album.
*This album was provided for review by Fervent Records/Word Records.
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