The fourth record from modern rock-worship band Leeland titled, The Great Awakening, raises a call for spiritual revival through a beautiful artistic declaration.

At first glance, I was hesitant to pop in the new record. After such a stellar debut, I was left disappointed with each record the band introduced. Each one had great characteristics, but never met that expectation that The Sound of Melodies blew me away with. Perhaps, my lack of eagerness is what caused me to find a gem of a praise and worship record.

The artistry of The Great Awakening is superior. The vocal harmonies are breathe taking, the guitar and piano melodies are warm and inviting, the drums and bass are thick and nestled in the space your ears want to hear each beat. The ambient rock anthems give life behind the vocals. This depth captures every emotion within the confines of each word sung, and soon you find yourself immersed in the rich lyrical context of praise each line concedes.

The theologically rich, gospel-driven, lyrics reminisce famous hymns of old. I find this welcoming in an over-saturated amount of contemporary worship that has lost its spiritual depth. Songs like “Chains Hit The Ground,” my personal favorite, “I Can See Your Love,” “Pages,” and “While We Sing,” make this album a truly great experience. The unconventional, yet systematic approach in the words furthers the artistism found within the musical apsect, bringing a marriage of glorious songs that have depth in their meaning.

The true lyrical highlight for me comes in “While We Sing.” In the outro, an anthem is sung that resonates close to my heart, “Church arise, arise and shine. Shake yourself from the dust. God is calling us to go.” A close second is “I Can See Your Love.” The melodies are flawless and beautiful, and also ends with a beautiful melodic version of the third verse from the famous hymn, “The Love of God.”

Front to back, this album is artistically the greatest Leeland has produced. At first listen, it’s a little different than anticipated, but as it grew on me, the more I found myself turning it on and enjoying every lyrics, melody and beat.

Released on September 20, 2011 with Essential Records

Editor’s Rating
84/100