Sanctus Real:We Need Each Other
Unity. Paul speaks about it in 1 Corinthians 1:11-13. How we as Christians truly need each other, how we need to be a “family”. This theme streams throughout the new album from Sanctus Real, We Need Each Other. Since the release of their debut album with Sparrow Records, Say It Loud, Sanctus Real has risen through the ranks to become one of the most well known bands in all of Christian music. And with this new album, they are sure to be catapulted into the stratosphere. Matt Hammitt, the lead singer, with his slightly gravely yet powerful voice, reminds of John Schlitt, lead singer of Petra.
“Turn On The Lights”, the first track on the album draws its name from Matthew 5:14-16, where Christ teaches us that we are the light of the world and that our light should shine before me so that they will praise the Father. It serves as a call to all of “the lights” to arise and join together. Musically, it draws you in from the first note. Its driving rhythm will have you drumming along through the entire song. “We Need Each Other”, the title track, continues the them of unity, and closely mirrors the passage in 1 Cor. 1:11-13, noted above. “Black Coal” describes what a life can be like when it is transformed by Christ. How we can be something beautiful in a world that can be quite ugly.
Running from our sin, but it still finding us and trying to take over our life is the message of “Leap of Faith”. It encourages us to pray for the strength to get away and stay away from it. “Lay Down My Guns” describes what life can be like when hurt takes over and you don’t open yourself up to the forgiveness that Christ tells us to give. The final track on the album is what all of us a Christians should want, to leave a “Legacy”. Our life shouldn’t just be a fleeting memory, but it should leave a lasting impact on the people whose lives that we have touched through Christ.
All in all, this is an incredibly strong release from Sanctus Real. Every song fits perfectly on this album. They all tell a story and give us words to live by. Musically, this is the best release from SR yet. They just keep getting better and better.
5/5
