Artist Info:Discography Album length: 11 tracks: 44 minutes, 57 seconds Street Date: 2001
Few bands have it all, as many things come into play to make them “great”. There's the look, the production,
and don't forget the all-important music as well as all the other things I won’t waste time in mentioning.
Sanctus Real, hailing from Toledo, Ohio, doesn't have it all. They don't have a major record deal, but this
seems to put an end to the not-have list almost before it starts. The rock star look is apparent when you
first take a look at their promo shots. The production is more than evident with Grammy nominated
Skidd Mills at the helm who has worked with the likes of Audio Adrenaline, Sister Hazel, and BB King
to name a few. Oh yeah, the music…
Nothing to Lose starts off on the right foot with the track of the same title. This song leads
the way with dirty guitar riffs that catch your attention and before you know it, a chorus hits that you’ll
be singing along to before realizing what’s going on. “Won’t Walk Away” comes up next with a somewhat delayed
chorus to keep up with each guitar chord. After hearing this song, you'll see this is one thing lacking on radio
songs of today with an old Buddy Holly type feel. “Other Side” has pop written all over it from beginning
to end as Jars of Clay come to mind which could be a sure break on the contemporary charts. Next up is
“Captain’s Chair.” I thought the song was great but the words "captain’s chair" drew me away for a
minute until the chorus kicked in to lead me back on track.
“Inside Out” is arguably the most blatant spiritual song on the album with a chorus saying,
“Lord, I fear I’m drowning here for an audience of one. And all I know is what I’ve been told- that there’s
something yet to come.” “All I Want” is something new for me. The middle of the chorus switches vocal
arrangements but ends with sweet rock. “Overflow”, “The Way You Wanted”, and “Message” are alright but
I can’t even begin to compare them with prior songs on the record. Ending the album are two worship-filled
rock ballads. “Craving” highlights the amazing writing skills of lead singer Matt Hammitt.
“May my kingdoms fall to You. Build my walls up with Your truth. No foundations made from sand- only on
Your Rock I’ll stand, with all my strength- with all I am.” “After Today,” the last track is also
incredible; it’s a perfect finishing touch.
This is the band's third album after being together for a good five years. I have to say, though, that there
is nothing indie or local about these guys but their label. The only weak points are because of such
excellent songs, the three bad ones stand out even more. I wish the two mellow ballads weren’t side by side
either. With one break, these boys would no doubt hit it big. Fans of The Calling, Lifehouse, Nine Days,
Matchbox 20, and others of the same genre will absolutely love this album. I wouldn’t doubt that there
are more hits here than most of those bands anyway. Diversity plays a key roll on the success as I was
surprised by the turns that the music took. You will be surprised when you hear this amazing CD.
You've got nothing to lose.
- Review date: 12/15/01, written by Blake Garris
Record Label: SpinAround Records
Album length: 11 tracks, 44 minutes and 57 seconds
Street Date: 2001
Record Label: SpinAround Records
