Out of Body (2020)

by Needtobreathe

Pivoting away from 2016's pop-polished Hardlove, South Carolina faith-infused rock outfit Needtobreathe return to their roots with the rousing Out of Body. Falling within the realm of Mumford & Sons, Kings of Leon, and the Revivalists, this seventh set is an anthem-packed batch of uplifting positivity, satisfying the soul with the band's brand of earnest optimism. With the departure of founding member Bo Rinehart, the remaining trio of Bear Rinehart, Seth Bolt, and Josh Lovelace still manage to knock it out of the park even ... Read More

Pivoting away from 2016's pop-polished Hardlove, South Carolina faith-infused rock outfit Needtobreathe return to their roots with the rousing Out of Body. Falling within the realm of Mumford & Sons, Kings of Leon, and the Revivalists, this seventh set is an anthem-packed batch of uplifting positivity, satisfying the soul with the band's brand of earnest optimism. With the departure of founding member Bo Rinehart, the remaining trio of Bear Rinehart, Seth Bolt, and Josh Lovelace still manage to knock it out of the park even at a reduced capacity, delivering their tightest and most consistent set in years. From the rousing opener "Mercy's Shore" -- which soars with gang vocals that would be appropriate for worship in a revival tent -- Needtobreathe make it clear that this is an album designed to empower and motivate through life's tough times. The OneRepublic-esque "Alive" gallops through evocative scenes of youthful innocence and nostalgia, as Rinehart urges listeners to suck every last drop out of this life. The country-smoked "Riding High" delivers a similar sentiment, this time in the form of a countrified blast of swagger and rollicking guitar. Later, Rinehart pleads to "Hang On" through life's trials because "these things take time." It's one of the best moments on the album, joining highlights such as the equally wistful "Child Again" and the hardened groover "Out of Body" in their mission to elevate spirits with an earnestness as bold and unabashed as Coldplay. Even tougher moments like those heard on the moving, piano-based closer "Seasons" strive to empower without wallowing in despair. While not as overtly religious as their frequent Christian designation might suggest (the come-to-Jesus "Survival" with Drew and Ellie Holcomb comes the closest), Out of Body spiritually uplifts as expertly as any worship music ever could, shining a light into the darkness with impeccably penned anthems to lift listeners from the deepest depths. ~ Neil Z. Yeung, Rovi Read Less