Search - Fireflight :: Healing of Harms

Catchy, upbeat and relevant

C.J. Darlington | 09/29/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Fireflight's debut album was five years in the making--five years of playing shows and waiting patiently. The Healing of Harms marks the Orlando based band's first foray into the national music scene after independently releasing the EP On the Subject of Moving Forward (which caught the ear of Flicker Records, who eventually signed the band). Lead vocalist Dawn Richardson says, "Finally the doors are opening. It really feels like God has given us these opportunities so that we can help reach those who are wounded, those who need this music."



The Healing of Harms is a positive collection of edgy rock tunes. The opener "Serenity" starts things off fast and furious and moves listeners right into the crunching guitars of "Waiting". In fact, Fireflight's intensity doesn't let up through most of the album. "It's You" (co-written by the band and Ian Eskelin) is the closest thing to a ballad you'll find with its worshipful message, but it's a stretch to use the word "ballad" in the same sentence as "Fireflight". This becomes increasingly obvious when a song like "Liar" grinds from the speakers as probably the edgiest song on the album. Bold guitars kick things off, and David Paul Pelsue (of Kids in the Way) delivers a great performance singing, and screaming, along with Dawn. Lyrically, it speaks against those who try to sell the truth for their own gain: All that I see when you start to cry / is the rock on your finger and the gleam in your eye / your sad story is making me sick / So change the channel cause it's getting thick.



As the album progresses, the songs do start to sound slightly repetitive, but that's a positive for those who can't get enough of Fireflight's grunge flavored music. Stand-out track "You Decide" (featuring Josh Brown of Day of Fire) is the band's first single and video. With words that challenge listeners to make a decision based on seeking God Himself, it's set to become a rock hit. And that's one of the great things about Fireflight. Not only is their music head-banging-good rock `n roll, but they don't sacrifice edifying lyrics for authenticity. Covering topics like self-worth, respect, controlling anger, and loving people for who they are, The Healing of Harms is an album youth pastors can give kids without concern, but modern rock fans won't find themselves listening to a sermon disguised as a song, either. Says Dawn, "Fireflight wants to write music that people can feel, make records that are universal enough to stand the test of time, and stay genuine and honest--or die trying."



With a Flyleaf meets Inhabited sound, The Healing of Harms brings listeners right up to edge of hard-core modern rock without completely falling over it. Catchy, upbeat, and relevant, Fireflight takes off in The Healing of Harms.



--Reviewed by C.J. Darlington for TitleTrakk"

'WOW'

Marlon Hill | des moines, iowa USA | 12/15/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There's only one thing wrong with this cd, it's too short(around 36 minutes). Other than that it's awesome. These guys and gals rock! Very fresh and heavy beats, with great lyrics. One of the best new acts of the year without question."

Downright good

Deuce | Dayton, OH USA | 12/27/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Many times I feel sorry for bands that get the "christian rock" label, for fear that their music gets left behind with todays mainstream rock. They should have more of a chance to compete with the other mainstream bands. I am beginning to find more and more "Christian rock" bands with better musical skills than the overplayed radio tracks we hear everyday. I give props to those bands who stay true to themselves without getting caught in the marketing aspect of music. I don't care who believes in what,...what I do care about is finding good rock bands with fresh sounds and melodies. This CD could easily have many radio worthy hard rock tracks. A solid pick for any rock fan!"