ALBUM REVIEW

Leeland:
Sound of Melodies

Leeland is a five-member band out of Texas, where everything is big – that apparently includes the talent. They are tight, creative, current, and unique. Their debut album, Sound of Melodies, is a pleasure to listen to from start to finish.

The title track opens the album and you're not sure what to expect with the 30-second sparse introduction. On second listen, you realize that it's a genesis of song, starting out way back with very little, adding in both volume and instrumentation to the big opening. Out comes the song of the redeemed! It's a very clever production, and sets the tone for a thoughtful, detailed, and near-perfect album. Lyrically and musically, Sound of Melodies gives praise to the One to whom it is due, crediting Him with Leeland's music. They seem to have no illusions as to the source of their genius.

Reaching is tailor-made for radio. The prominent guitar and subtle percussion move it along, with its chorus full and appealing. Listeners will find themselves singing along at the first listen. Leeland’s (the singer) voice is just another instrument here, in a synergistic collection of sound.

Yes You Have is another catchy radio track. The lead vocal shines here, with a smooth tone anchored by the deeper background vocals. It's the gospel in song, straightforward and unapologetic. The chorus has one of the catchiest hooks on the album, and assures it heavy rotation on CCM stations. It's again directed vertically, as praise to the Father. The production is tight throughout the album and the producer has enough confidence in the excellence of Mooring's voice to drop back and let most of the songs be carried by it. That's not to say it's sparsely produced because it isn’t. There's a LOT going on in these songs, but it's a wise producer who knows when subtlety is called for.

In an album full of brilliant songs, Tears of the Saints shines the brightest. Its 6-minute-plus length will keep it out of most radio rotation, but it will make up for it on CD players and iPods across the nation. This song combines poignant lyrics, a clear soulful lead, underlying subtleties in the instrumentation, and great backup vocals rolled up in to one incredible masterpiece. This song will truly evoke tears from the saints everywhere.

Leeland's expected Praise & Worship hit is next. I say "expected" because it's available as a minus one (lead vocal). Beautiful Lord is a good, solid song, though far from the best cut. It would do well as special music in some church setting. The cello in the middle is a high point, but the heavy guitars near the end take it out of the P&W realm. Leeland's voice is strong and clear, though this song doesn't stretch him as much as some of the others.

Can’t Stop features more of Mike Smith's excellent drums. Together with Jeremiah Woods' guitar, they carry the song. A filler track. Lift Your Eyes is a bass- and percussion-heavy delight. Light and melodic guitars give an excellent contrast to the bassline, and well complement the vocals. Lift is one of the few songs that is directed to the listener; it's an open altar call and, like the lyrics, Leeland's voice is open and welcoming.

On an album with a lot of serious content, Hey is fun. It could end up a crossover hit. Though the lyrics are written for God, they could very well be directed at another. Hey has that British-rock feel, with clever production and 80's pop feel. Continuing with an alternative bent is Too Much. Musically, it has an Amanda Abizaid feel to it, with very cool mono to stereo trick production. The lyrics well capture our need for rest in Him.

Take a breath and be refreshed by How Wonderful. It is one of those Sound of Melodies that the title track sings about. It's pure, unadulterated praise. Leeland's lower range is showcased here, giving the song a deeper and more serious tone to the verses. This is one that will have concert-goers lifting their hands in worship and thanksgiving.

The album ends with Carried to the Table, another magnum opus. I'm not at all surprised to find this co-written with Steve Hindalong ("God of Wonders") and Marc Byrd ("Cry Holy"). It's a foray into Praise and Worship that Leeland does well. "I'm carried to the table, seated where I don’t belong; Carried to the table, swept away by His love. And I don't see my brokenness any more, when I'm seated at the table of the Lord." It's another tear-jerker of a song, as the listener realizes the gravity of the sacrifice made by the One for we who are undeserving. There's a humility here (and throughout the album) that I hope Leeland never loses, even when they become superstars (which is inevitable).

Essential Records recognizes a moneymaker, and they've shown their willingness to invest in this band, bringing in proven producers and songwriters to fine-tune this treasure-trove of young talent. It's a risk on a debut, but that investment will pay off. Leeland could very well be the breakout band of the year. It's not just the lead singer's chops that drive this band. As a whole, they have a unique, pleasing sound, intelligent lyrics, and fresh music. They are a band to watch, with limitless potential. There are several songs from this album that will end up in heavy rotation on every Christian station. This is an enhanced CD, with a music video and other extras for fans. Do yourself a favor and buy this record!