Search - Jonah33 :: Heart of War

Best album by Jonah33 to date...

E. A. Lowe | Knoxville, TN | 11/23/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"On Jonah33's previous efforts I was always under the impression that they were holding back. On The Heart of War they finally unleash a musical edge and passion only hinted at on previous efforts. If you liked tracks "Watching You Die" and "Desensitized" from the first two albums, this album is more along those lines. It rocks harder and expresses musical intensity and emotion on a much deeper scale. If you are looking for radio-friendly pop, there is less of it here. If you like Kutless' To Know That You're Alive, Decyfer Down's Crash, Red's Instinct and Innocence, Skillet's Awake, you will probably enjoy this album. But give it a listen first--some people may not like his voice (I like it and feel it expresses his emotion and intensity better). Lyrically, there are some strong Christian lyrics (ex. "Scream at the top of your lungs if you're ready to die tonight for what you believe"). While some of their lyrics are well-crafted (Bravery, for ex.), others could have used a bit more polish (the line "I'd take a bullet in the face for you" is just plain bad). However, all around I would say this is their best album to date and one I will probably still be listening to several months and even years down the road (and I have over 1700+ Christian rock/pop/metal albums). "This Means War" for the next generation..."

Worth checking out

C. Shepard | Knoxville, TN USA | 08/04/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Jonah33's first two albums are monumental. Strong music, powerful lyrics... the best Christian rock that there is, in my opinion. The Heart of War album went a different direction; maybe they're trying to break into secular music so that they can take the message to people who need it. The lyrics are highly metaphorical, comparing the Christian plight to war, which is more of a truth than a comparison. I love the sound, and appreciate the message of the album, but I really do miss the lyrical directness of the past albums. If someone listens to this album and does not know that Jonah33 is a Christian band, they will still not know it. If, however, the songs are viewed from the perspecive of the Christian walk, the message is really good. If the lyrics were more direct, I would have given the album 5 stars. Keep up the good work, guys! I'll be anxiously awaiting your next album."