Review

Since their self titled release in 2002, Kutless has proven to be one of the most successful rock bands in the Christian music industry today. Their guitar-heavy, Nu-Metal (alternative metal ala Creed and Lifehouse) sound and passionate lyrics have made them a favorite of hard rock fans both Christian and non-Christian. Now after their very successful sophomore release "Sea of Faces", Kutless is back with their first worship album titled "Strong Tower." While some worship projects by popular CCM artist offer little more than a radio-friendly rehashing of popular worship songs, this isn't the case with "Strong Tower." Kutless joins the ranks with such artist as Newsboys and Michael W Smith in being able to deliver heartfelt, inspired worship music while staying true to the style of music that has brought them notoriety.

Most of the songs on "Strong Tower" were not written by the band, and if you read the song listing for this CD you'll notice the songs that they chose to record are not necessarily the latest, "hottest" worship songs. In fact, many of the songs have been covered extensively on worship albums over the last six or seven years. So why should we take notice of yet another studio worship album that includes "Better Is One Day", "We Fall Down" and "Draw Me Close"? The answer to this question is found by listening to this band deliver these songs. You see, there is a passion in the "Kutless sound" that gives a fresh voice to the songs on this CD. The driving guitars, the dramatic string arrangements and the well crafted harmonies all come together to bring out unexplored nuances in these familiar songs.

Among the many well known worship songs, are nestled some original ones written by the band and friends, including the title track "Strong Tower" which has enjoyed extensive radio airplay. These originals hold their own among the other classics on this album. Again, Kutless' songs are powerful and passionate and speak of desperation for God and His will to be done. Take for instance these lines from the track "Ready For You":

Whatever it takes
I'm needing to make Your will be done
And I'm letting go of my control
For I see what You've done in me

"Strong Tower" is much more than a popular band doing an album of popular worship music. After listening to this CD, it is obvious to me that the members of Kutless are worshipers and understand how to create music that is accessible for other worshipers. This CD would be a great resource for any worship band looking for fresh arrangements of the older worship music. I will admit that I am personally not an avid fan of Nu-Metal or hard rock, but I am a fan of sincere worship music that is done well, and that makes me a huge fan of "Strong Tower".

Review by Jeremy Dunn