CD Review: Looks Like Jesus (BFA)

Calling all 11th Hour and Karen Peck & New River fans! But wait, you might be thinking, isn't this a review of an album by Brian Free and Assurance? Why, yes, it is. I'll return to that point in a minute, but for now, let's just get on with the review. BFA is Brian Free on tenor, Bill Shivers on lead, and newest member Jake Anglin on baritone. As is often the case with new lineups, I suppose, the latest version of BFA seems to be quite different from a stylistic standpoint than the group has typically been known for in the past. Now, let's get more specific, shall we? :)

1: Looks Like Jesus— Starting off with the title cut, it features Brian on the first and third verses, as well as special guest Jimmy Fortune on the second verse. The song details how Christians should show love to others and the various ways we can do that, be it giving money to the poor, caring for the sick, or even giving our lives for others, like Jesus did. It's more progressive, which BFA music normally is, so I guess this song is one of the exceptions to my previous statement. Either way, this is definitely a motivating song! :)

2: What If We Prayed— Bill is featured on this slower song, which deals with surrendering to God in trials. It's not a sign of weakness. Prayer is powerful and important in Christians' lives. We have to remember that we're not in this alone because God can help us... and not only that, but he also wants to and is waiting for us to recognize that! This song is really encouraging and thought-provoking.

3: Old Things— Jake's first feature (actually, the only one he has all to himself on this CD), which is an up-tempo song that talks about the change that Jesus makes in the lives of new converts. I'm not quite sure what to call the style of this song, but I would say it's not BFA's normal style. I love it, though, and Jake does a great job singing the song. :) If you ever get stuck in the past and feel like it prevents us from being "good Christians" (whatever that means), this song is a great reminder that if we're trusting Jesus to forgive our past, none of that matters anymore. Great message.

4: What the Cross Really Is— Probably the most "traditional" song on the album, it's also the first single from the project. It talks about how the world might think that the Cross of Jesus is gruesome or a negative thing, it truly isn't. To Christians, it means redemption. Jake sings the first verse, Bill has the lead on the second verse and the first two choruses, and Brian takes the lead after the bridge (and a very neat key change!). Definitely thought-provoking. Jake's feature also showcases how much he sounds like Grant Gibson of Karen Peck & New River, and formerly of 11th Hour... I bet my opening statement is making a lot more sense right about now. :)

5: This Side of a Miracle— Bill is featured on this super fast, super fun, super thought-provoking song. It says that we shouldn't give up when it seems like our prayers aren't being answered, using several different Bible stories as examples of miracles that took place because of the faith of God's people. We need to hold on and trust that God is going to work the situation out. This song is also one of the more contemporary ones on the album.

6: When You're Staring At a Mountain— Brian is featured on this closing track, which again speaks to the trials we face in life. This ballad continues with the message of the previous track because it says that not only is God faithful when he delivers us from the problems we face, but he's still good when we are going through those trials. Definitely a thought-provoking, encouraging way to end this EP.

In closing, you might be wondering why I didn't identify a standout track or two, like I normally do. Well, I just can't this time. Each of the songs on this recording are seriously that good. This project is just incredible and each of the songs is encouraging in a different way, for a different reason. Secondly, I really enjoyed getting to hear the new BFA lineup! No matter what you look for in a CD, you'll probably find something to love about this one!