Review Summary: Lastwatch's new album (Leave A Light On) is high-quality Christian rock containing a blending heavy guitar riffs, orchestral synth backgrounds, and powerful vocals.
Album Review:
Lastwatch rocks out live in concert with a high-energy, quality show. Their new album, Leave A Light On, is no different. The compilation is intriguing in every facet. Each song sports a unique feel, giving the listener a different experience within each track. The album is jam-packed with catchy songs like “The Countdown,” upbeat guitar riffs, melodic synth orchestrations, and powerful messages that exhibit the talents of song-writers Jonathan Miller, Ashley Miller, and Matt Hanna.
Instrumentally, the album is packed with intricate, upbeat rhythm guitar riffs performed by Jonathan Miller and Matt Hanna, and it also contains lead guitar solos that often leave the listener feeling empowered (i.e., the solo after the bridge in “Guiding My Way” by Matt Hanna). Although this style of music is similar in nature to bands like Red and Flyleaf, the well-written synthetic orchestrations found throughout the album give it its signature, cutting edge sound making Lastwatch stand apart from other artists. Songs like “My Home” also showcase the talents of former bass player Andrea Day as she plays those catchy, integral bass slides. Former drummer Zach Day rocks out with powerful drum fills and solid beats that help drive the album.
Vocally, Ashley Miller is euphonious and delivers the messages within each song in a fresh, passionate, and mellifluent manner. Her voice works in perfect synergy with the overall sound. For example, Ashley is able to paint a clear picture of God’s love and ever-staying presence with her talented vocal delivery in the ballad “Somehow” where she was able to portray the emotion behind the message.
Lyrics in all songs on the album contain positive messages that encourage and uplift the listener. Lead singer Ashley Miller said this in an interview regarding criticism of the Christian message behind the lyrics: “We do get criticized for not being Christian enough and for being too Christian, but we expect it. It comes with the territory. It really helps to read in the Bible that Jesus and many others were criticized for these very same reasons. We try to respond how Jesus did, in love, prayer, and continuing the mission,” (http://www.nataliezworld.com).
Overall, the high-quality music and powerful messages throughout the album will keep you coming back for more of Lastwatch.
