The Skyliner

Issue date: 4/9/08 Section: Entertainment & Features

Kellan Mayfield
Staff Writer


Sound of Melodies, the debut release from Texas-based group Leeland, has sold more than 100,000 copies since its 2006 release, and for good reason. The album was packed with clever songwriting, catchy riffs, and a great presentation of the Gospel that appealed to fans of mainstream acts like Coldplay and Keane.

So how does the band's sophomore effort Opposite Way compare? Well, fans will be glad to hear that frontman Leeland Mooring's songwriting hasn't softened yet, and neither have his vocals. The eleven tracks all show a maturity that has grown even in the 2 years since the band's first release.

The opening track "Count Me In" showcases the band's ability to put together an energetic radio-ready number while also incorporating thoughtful lyrics that actually carry meaning and aren't just for ear candy. The rest of the record reflects the band's first album, but shows a careful progression in the right direction.

Leeland has carved out their sound so that while the overall mood of the second album is rockier and more melodic, they still carry worshipful tones fit for a church worship service. These songs, much like the band's first set, have messages of hope in times of despair and love during times of hatred.

Songs like "May Our Praise" and "Beginning and the End" have the recognizable Leeland sound, and show a reverence toward the Lord that is absent in much Christian rock found on the airwaves today. "Falling For You" paints the picture of a man broken by his sin seeking forgiveness from God, while "Thief in the Night" anticipates Christ's return to take home His children, and gives hope to the believer.

But the greatest thing about the album is its overall message to us as Christians. In a society where everyone has become so wrapped up in following everyone else, Opposite Way encourages believers to take a stand and defend what they believe in. The title track proclaims, "It seems like you're locked in a cage / and you need to find a way of escape / when everyone's setting the pace / it's okay to run the opposite way."

Opposite Way is a very positive release from what is already one of Christian music's most popular acts today. You owe it to yourself to give it a listen.

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