On Inhabited’s 2005 debut
, The Revolution (Fervent), the group provided a pleasant, though in
many cases, noticeably derivative amalgamation of Evanescence, BarlowGirl and
Plumb. Though splashes of those similarities resurface to a certain extent
(plus bits of Paramore),
Love
showcases the group expanding its sonic palette, while also providing
eternity-minded messages. The title cut is a stirring acoustic ballad where
front woman Sara Acker speaks about love’s many angles, particularly the
intertwining of the Lord’s unconditional acceptance with His grace-drenched
opportunities for redemption. The sweetly sung “Song To the Fatherless” expands
upon that issue, reminding listeners of Christ’s ultimate protection, despite
the fractured parental relationships found in this world.
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“We
Will Live” and “Are You With Me” return to edgier contexts via chunky guitars
and thumping drums, showcasing growth in the vocal and instrumentation
department, wrapped around glistening production from Monroe Jones (Third Day,
Jackson Browne). Yet, the band still leans a little too heavily on outside
influences during the Gwen Stefani “Hollaback Girl” cloned “Hush” and the
Superchick-styled pep rally cheer “Are You With Me.” Thankfully, it’s not to
the same degrees of regularity as the first time out, suggesting that if
Inhabited continues in this otherwise more original direction, its third disc
could be a complete charm.
- Andy Argyrakis