Music Review: Shane & Shane - Everything is Different

Genre: Acoustic Rock
Label: Inpop Records
Release Date: November 3, 2009

Rating: 4.5/5

A gloriously harmonious, vocally-astounding, acoustic attack of God-honoring awesomeness.

That’s the best I can come up with the describe Shane & Shane’s new album, Everything is Different. The guys have created their best album to date, as their always stellar vocals are put on display throughout the 12 intricately-crafted songs, bringing honor to God through both their lyrics and musical ability.

If you’ve enjoyed the Shanes’ previous albums, you will find a ton here to love. The guys haven’t deviated a ton musically from what they do; they just continue to do it better each time out. Songs like “Everything is Different,” “Worthy of Affection,” and “I’m Alive” are vintage Shane & Shane with their acoustic-driven melodies and incredible harmonies. Also, their version of “The Lord’s Prayer” is moving and a fresh take on the prayer.

My favorite song, however, was “My Reward,” which explores the idea that Jesus himself is our reward and all we need. A gorgeous acoustic guitar riffs leads the verse into a driving chorus that sings, “I love you, Lord. Jesus, my King. I want to love you, Lord. My great reward.” Powerfully moving with the melody they use.

Another interesting song was the slower “Turn Down The Music,” which explores issues of social justice as our song of praise to God. “Turn down the music / Turn down the noise / Turn up you voice, oh God / And let us hear the sound of people broken / Willing to love / Give us your heart, oh God / A new song rising up.”

As I said, I would classify this as Shane & Shane’s best work overall. It’s solid from top to bottom, with a few songs that will likely become favorites of mine for quite a while. I've been listening to it for almost a month and it's still amazing me. I’m a huge fan of great harmonies, and I’m yet to find better than these guys. They write great songs, have amazing vocals, and use every song to glorify God in every way. Given that you appreciate their acoustic style of music, it’s hard to find better than that.



*This album was provided for review by Inpop Records.