Latest Article
That's right, it's 'difficult second album' time! Two years after their last record, 'There Came A Lion', Texas rockers Ivoryline attempt to build on its early promise with 'Vessels'. It's a solid effort, and it is encouraging to see a Christian alternative rock band who have opted to focus on their own material, rather than release a mediocre cover album of old worship songs (Kutless & Third Day: I’m looking at you!). 'Vessels' showcases some diverse and probing lyrics, plus a few catchy riffs. However, the production, whilst high-value, doesn't really do this kind of music any favours.
Ivoryline are an...
Read More That's right, it's 'difficult second album' time! Two years after their last record, 'There Came A Lion', Texas rockers Ivoryline attempt to build on its early promise with 'Vessels'. It's a solid effort, and it is encouraging to see a Christian alternative rock band who have opted to focus on their own material, rather than release a mediocre cover album of old worship songs (Kutless & Third Day: I’m looking at you!). 'Vessels' showcases some diverse and probing lyrics, plus a few catchy riffs. However, the production, whilst high-value, doesn't really do this kind of music any favours.
Ivoryline are an alternative rock outfit, with some strong punk influences. You'd imagine that they are far more hard-edged live than on this polished, but ultimately muted album. The squeaky clean production makes the band sound more like Paramore than the hardcore act they presumably aspire to be. That said, it's still an inoffensive and enjoyable listen.
Lyrically, 'Vessels' varies from the by-the-numbers choruses: such as With The Daylight ("darkness is pierced by light, all over the world, all over the world"), to the introspective and challenging: such as those featured on Search Me Out ("I can't pray when I'm proud. I need you to speak so loudly.") For all the lyrics that seem out of place and clunky, there are equally as many inspired refrains. One of the highlights of the album is the closing track, Made From Dust. It takes the pace down dramatically, as lead singer Jeremy Gray repeats the heartfelt line "the final time I close my eyes, I will open them in paradise." It's at these moments when 'Vessels' becomes a fascinating listen. They clearly have the ability, even if their full potential isn't reached on this sophomore release.
It's not unfair to say that Ivoryline haven't exactly produced any classic material here, but with two pretty solid albums now under their belts, it will be really exciting to see what this Texas four-piece will do next.
Review by J Alexander
LTTM Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars
Stand Out Tracks
With The Daylight
Broken Bodies
Made From Dust
