Subscribe to AltRockLive

Ever since Casting Crowns appeared on the scene in 2001 the band has been a constant voice in the world of Contemporary Christian Music. They have appeared on movie soundtracks for movies like "Facing the Giants""Fireproof" and most recently "Courageous" have had multiple number one hits, released four full length records that have debuted in the top 20 have released multiple live albums and a successful Christmas album. With all this success in ten years one would expect nothing but perfection when listening to the veteran groups fifth full length studio album Come to the Well.

Musically Casting Crowns has continued to show growth and this album is no exception. True to their original contemporary southern sound Come to the Well doesn't offer much in the way of experimentation, in fact listeners may be turned off at first by the large amounts of ballads, but it's good to hear the band be true to their sound and still remain relevant at the same time. The album opener "Courageous" is a good example of the bands ability to rock without letting the music overpower Mark Haul's deep baritone voice. "The Well" is a good ballad and is very well composed, "Spirit Wind" a fairly fun track to listen to comes off as a folk number and listeners will be pleased to hear the use of the Banjo. "Just Another Birthday" features the bands female vocalist Megan Garrett and works to pick the pace of the album back up from the previous two tracks.

Lyrically Come to the Well isn't the best work from the Atlanta based rock group. Back are themes of following God and being a light in the world where God is not openly accepted. "Courageous" starts off the album with a set of convicting lyrics aimed at men concerning our role as spiritual leaders in the household and church. ("We were warriors on the frontlines, Standing unafraid, But now we're, watchers on the sidelines, While our families slip away") "Already There" is a song about the times when we doubt God and remembering that he is already there when we can't feel Him. "Angel" seems like a love song to his wife "Spirit Song" is a ballad written for those who are fighting to protect freedom and "The Well" encourages the listener to come and seek the Lord when you are weary. "My Own Worst Enemy" is an edgy rocker that almost catches the listener off guard focusing on our past and the death of sin nature.

Thought not their best work to date "Come to the Well" is defiantly a step in the right director for a band that has captured the hearts of millions. Fans will be blessed, challenged and encouraged by Casting Crowns commitment to leading the Body to the cross.

Record Label: Beach Street Records
Album length: 12 tracks: 53 minutes, 13 seconds
Street Date: October 18, 2011