LABEL: CURB RECORDS
RELEASE DATE: OCTOBER 25, 2011

o Other Name’s The Other Side boasts great vocal layering, smart musical arrangements, and an overwhelming positive message. That being said, it’s not going to be everyone’s cup of tea. It is solidly within the CCM market and would be more than comfortable at AC radio. So, if you’re not a fan of CCM, then steer clear. However, if you like that tried-and-true CCM sound, then you’re likely going to like everything about No Other Name.

“He’s Alive” introduces the listener to the sound and one thing is immediately apparent: This group cansing. In fact, they sing so well together that outshine their arrangements—which are also well put together.

Title track “The Other Side” really highlights what this trio is all about. A song that speaks about the longing we all have for heaven is nothing new to CCM, but No Other Name knows how to tug on the heartstrings. Anyone who has ever had to say good-bye to a loved one far too soon will feel this song’s message. The background harmonies mixed with a large orchestral sound ends up calling to mind a reunion of heavenly proportions.

“Maplewood Methodist Church” is storytelling at its best. Even after listening to it multiple times, it never seems to get old for me. A story about a janitor who cleans an old church and also quietly prays for the church’s members, this is the kind of song that warms the heart and reminds us that prayer is a necessary and powerful part of the Christian life.

Having attended a church of Christ college and singing in an a cappella chorus for four years, I truly appreciated No Other Name’s rendition of “Christ Arose.” A Cappella arrangements are not easy to compose and you must be able to 1) sing and 2) trust your singing partners. No Other Name does this is spades. This is the best track on the album by far and, if you’re Baptist (for whom this song is a staple), you’re likely to like it even better than I do.

Misses for me were “Even Angels” and “The Only One.” They just came across as somewhat cheesy and I found myself skipping them after a couple listens.

If you’re looking for the deep artistic poetry of a worship group like Gungor, that’s not No Other Name’s game. They’re lyrics are hopeful, straightforward, and more akin to Casting Crowns or MercyMe. There’s a vacillation between worshipful ballads and story-driven pieces that end in great expectation. So, if you want a giant bowl of sunshine with your faith this morning, I highly suggest No Other Name. All arguments of “the Christian faith isn’t a bowl of cherries” aside, sometimes its nice to have someone offer psalms of hope rather than lament and confusion. If you like CCM with a hint of country, then The Other Side is worth the money.