Aileen R. (aileen) from N HOLLYWOOD, CA Reviewed on 8/15/2008...
I recently attended a concert in Elmira, NY featuring Tree63, Rebecca St. James and Larue. It was incredible. I attended primarily to see/hear Larue and they did not disappoint. Their voices and music was so natural and effortless; I thought I was listening to their CDs. Now, as far as Transparent is concerned, I think it would be really difficult for any fan of contemporary Christian music to not like this CD. This CD touches on a number of different subjects and emotions -- bringing you up with praise songs like Near to Me and to tender, thoughtfull songs like Fallen For You and Brianna's Song. They've taken their first CD up a notch. You will like this!! -Norbert H. Remus (Amazon.com)
CD Reviews
Beautiful, Soft, Pure
Amber M. Barnason | Superior, Nebraska, USA | 02/24/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"LaRue is one of few bands that have managed to avoid the sophmore slump. Their second album is one to play everywhere and it is for all moods. "Brianna's Song" that they wrote for their sister who has Cerebral Palsey, is one of the most touching and emotional songs ever recorded. You can practically feel Natalie and Phil's love for their sister in the song. "Jaded" is a great song that talks about a past romantic relationship. This is over-all one of the best albums put out by a Contemporary Christian artist. Natalie's vocals are so pure and almost haunting on this album, and Phil adds one of the best acustic guitar performances that I have encountered for a number of years. This is an album that goes good with road trips and daily devotions, a true rarity. This album was worth waiting for and in the mass of albums in the stores, it is the diamond in the rough."
Better than the first, believe it or not!
The Crystalline Entity | Pennsylvania | 01/26/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was very impressed when I picked up Transparent on January 23rd, the release date. Every song on it is excellent, and even more mature and beautiful than the ones on the last record, although their debut was impressive as well. If LaRue had just a little too much pop taste on their debut for you, I highly recommend that you pick up this album! As the reviewer before me said, there is a good mix of fast and slow songs. If you're not usually a lover of slow songs, be prepared to be blown away. "Fallen for You" and "Brianna's Song" are absolutely beautiful; you won't be able to resist them! Also check out "Theory of Flight", "Near to Me", and "I Can't Sing". You won't be disappointed in "Transparent"!"
Wow what a good CD!!
Mirjam de Joode | The Netherlands | 09/30/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I bought this cd 2nd hand, I did not know Larue, but now I do, and I can say that this is one of the best cd's I have in my collection. I think that they sound a bit Celtic."
Fantastic CD!
beetlebug887 | STL, Mo | 12/31/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"LaRue has done it again! This is a wonderful CD with a fair share of fast and slower songs. A great CD! It frequently visits my CD player! ;-)
~"Theory of Flight" has truthful, inspiring lyrics, and a catchy beat.
~"Wake Up" is edgy, and very well done. I can jog to this song and the words are profound in their truth. One of my favorites of this album.
~"Fly" is not so deep but nonetheless worthy of a good listen.
~"Jaded" speaks of a romantic relationship that is breaking. This is also one of my favorite songs on this CD.
~"Fallen for You" is slower, but Natalie's angelic voice keeps you listening to the end.
~"Near to Me" is among the faster songs and the words are so good.
~"Brianna's Song" is slow, but the words are so beautiful, they can almost bring tears to your eyes. Natalie and Phillip sing about their sister, Brianna.
~"No Goodbyes" is another very good song.
~"I Can't Sing" is not very deep. A bit silly, actually. Phillip and Natalie kinda "let loose" in this one. It has amusing lyrics, a fun tune, and I smile whenever I hear this song. One of my favorites.
~"Seem to Be" borders on alternative/rock, but is very good. I can jog to this one and the words are again---awesome.
~"One White Tulip" is a reflection on times past. A beautiful song.
I can't say enough about this album. LaRue's passion for God shines through their songs and touches you with their truths. LaRue is one of my favorite bands, and I think they are awesome at what they do. This CD should not be passed up."
Go LaRue!
Jess | Texas, USA | 03/04/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'd heard of LaRue before, but never listened to their music before I borrowed "Transparent". I'm so glad I did! This album is a wonderful collection of slower songs, and more upbeat ones. I generally like fast-paced pop music, but LaRue's music is great for lots of music lovers and their lyrics are inspiring. I enjoy listening to it while I read or write letters, and even fall asleep, although it's great to listen to any time!"