"This is NOT the same group from 2001's "The Big Surprise." Yes, the members of the group are the same, but their look and sound have changed. And this is not a bad thing.I liked "The Big Surprise" a great deal. In fact, it was the video to the song "Hey, Hey" that got me hooked on the group. That first album (second album if you count the groups original individual effort in 1999) had a 60s feel to it. Many of the songs were very infectious and had a way of staying with you long after you listened to them.In "Truth, Soul, Rock & Roll" the group has matured vocally, musically, and lyrically. Don't worry, you can still find a hint of the Beatles in this album, but you can also find a more mature sound. And for those of you who think that The Elms have sold out and now sound just like every other Christian alternative band out there, you would be wrong. They have managed to find a new sound that is unique to them.Take a listen to the sample songs that Amazon has made available and see for yourself how much better The Elms are this time around. Then go do yourself a favor and buy the album."
The Beauty of Musical Emotion
Autumn | 05/11/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In The Big Surprise, there were many fast-beat songs that seemed to magically match the rhythm of your heart as you sang lyrics which you didn't quite understand, but went with the tune perfectly. In this, Truth Soul Rock & Roll, the songs are a bit more slow, but so much more intense. These songs celebrate the beauty of musical emotion flowing purely from the heart of the writer/lead singer, Owen Thomas, as his beautiful range and vocals mesmerize your ears. As I let my mother listen to this album she said it brought back old memories of The beatles, and indeed, much of their sound is akin to the classic rock&roll sound, but their inspiring christian lyrics make all the difference. Who says kids today have no taste in music? Obviously someone who hasn't heard this album. If you want to sample some of the best for this album, I suggest Happiness or All the While Having Fun. But the CD in it's entirety is magnificent. God Bless The Elms!"
Anyone Who Says Rock Is Dead Hasn't Heard The Elms
Autumn | 01/13/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album really rocks! It reminds me of all the great bands from yesteryear. The sound is original and distinct, the music is catchy, and the lyrics are actually about something(which becomes more rare with each dying oldschooler). So buy this record and you won't be dissappointed."
Incredibly, wonderful album!!!!!!!
Autumn | 11/21/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I literally impulsively bought this CD for the cover only three days after it was released. I had never heard these guys before, didn't know if I would like it. The opening measures to "Speaking in Tongues" were enough to let me know that I was in for a very pleasant surprise.Since I first got it into a player the night I bought it hardly a day has gone by when I haven't played the entire album all of the way through AT LEAST once. They have kept a good hold on their own sound while sounding alot like the Beatles at times and the AWESOME guitar riffs sound somewhat 70's. Their first CD, "The Big Surprise" (2001) which I now own also, was incredible and I fail to find words to describe their second, "Truth, Soul, Rock & Roll". Owen Thomas (lead singer) has an AMAZING voice and Thomas Daugherty (lead guitarist) is ridiculously overly talented.The lyrics are good and most carry a wonderful message of God's amazing love, they make sense and they are sung so you can understand each and every word.If you buy this CD I swear that you will not be let down by this awesome group. I eagerly wait any future releases from these guys and meanwhile, I listen to the albums I do have, thouroughly enjoying each and every song.It's an AWESOME album by and AWESOME band. If you liked "The Big Surprise" you will LOVE "Truth, Soul, Rock & Roll""
The Kings of a New Melody
Rock and Roll | North Carolina | 12/09/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Alright, these people just plain rock.
They have the influence of the best rock and roll bands ever, as you can probably tell.
The guitar licks are catchy yet powerful (as is with the vocals). Probably the only nick on this album would be "You've Got No Room To Talk!"...this is an incredible song live, however on the album it seems subdued and lacks their rocking drums.
With vocal styles of the beatles, the guitar style of the who, and some generalities thrown in with the drummer and bassist, The Elms are today's ONLY solid group of musicians.....aaand Thomas Daugherty is an incredible guitarist