Grace Hotel
  Overall rating: 

Album Reviews

For enthusiasts of simple songs that have no depth but are pleasantly catchy, "Truth, Soul, Rock & Roll" will be the next CD in their collection. The Elms seem like they are looking to blend in with the rest of the music world, rather than make a difference and offer listeners something new. This Christian rock quartet displays their sophomore effort with simple beats and repetitive rhymes that portray a collage of every piece of contemporary rock on the radio. The first single off the CD, "Speaking In Tongues," opens with redundant guitar string bends for about 45 seconds.But it then develops into a catchy display of rock.
"Smile At Life Again" sounds a little too much like Adam Sandler's "I Want To Grow Old With You" off of "The Wedding Singer" soundtrack. Possible influence?

The Elms' songs definitely radiate a positive vibe, with titles like "Happiness," "You Saved Me" and "All the While Having Fun." I didn't hear any signs of negativity throughout the whole 12 tracks. Pretty impressive, considering our generation is influenced by role models like Eminem. There is something to like in each of the songs on "Truth, Soul, Rock & Roll," but nothing lasting. Lead singer Owen Thomas displays his vocal shortcomings when he attempts to hit notes too high for him to clear. However, there are points where harmonies are used well and the songs shine as a result. The drumbeats are simplistic and so are all of the other elements involved with the Elms, but the music's harmonics add to the tracks. I have heard much worse than what the Elms have to offer with "Truth, Soul, Rock & Roll."
Overall, the Elms will probably never make it into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. But their latest CD is worthy of a listen.

~ John Biernacki

Crankable, danceable! Purist rock -n- roll! The soul is in the authentic rock, and the truth is in the lyrics. Musically there is a slight change since "The Big Surprise", this being more user-friendly and infectious.

"The Big Surprise" planted The Elms solidly in the rock scene. It even landed them an opening tour spot with legendary guitarist Peter Frampton. "Truth, Soul, Rock & Roll" builds on that and proves that it is possible to be creative and relevant as a "Christian" band.

Favorites include "Speaking In Tongues," "You Saved Me," and "You Got No Room To Talk!," as they embody the elements the title suggests. One listen, and you will find yourself longing for the dancing days of the past.

~ Ken W.

Interviews

christianitytoday

thegospelzone

thejesusunderground

cmusicweb

Servantsheart

Lyrics

modernrocklyrics

christianrocklyrics

Mp3 (Downloads)

mikesfichtner