Canopy Red's first EP makes for a solid debut, even through there are some vague flaws in their sound and message. With a band name representing the image of living under the shelter of Christ's blood, it is no surprise this first appearance consists of profound messages intertwined with soaring guitars.

Opening with "Falling Apart," Canopy Red's musical variety is mixed in magnificently, with strong vocals and even stronger guitars. The band displays a definite ability to bring a concrete rock sound, while being consistent with genuine lyrics ("I try so hard to disguise this mess/But behind the mask, I'm entirely defenseless/As my weaknesses become exposed/So does the debt that I owed"). Unfortunately, the remainder of the album, beginning with the slightly forgettable "All Around Me," lacks the excellent strength first displayed. However, this small criticism is continued in a rather odd way; powerful guitar solos are still found in every song, but once the vocals begin, the musical power sometimes ceases.

This style continues into the more original song, "True," which is thankfully more reminiscent of the design of the album's opener. Where "True" features solid guitars and again insightful lyrics ("Where did we go wrong when we know the price that was paid?"), its follower, "Sorry," begins as powerfully piano driven and continues on to feature again excellent guitars, leading to an overall smooth sound.

Not for the first time on the EP, the closer "Why Would You" provides a powerful rendering of our insufficiency when we realize how incredible God truly is. This brings about an interesting concern with the album's overall lyrical viewpoint. The band clearly stresses how we deserve nothing from above, which leads to an overall slightly more worship sound than rock sound. With the standout first track having such a defined sound, it is a little disappointing that this is not carried over into the other songs.

At the same time, it is nice to hear music that so willingly expresses how weak everyone is without Christ. To be clear, there is nothing wrong with their message; it is simply frustrating that the band is missing a certain amount of optimism in their lyrics. For guys that make it very clear that they know their insufficiency when compared to Christ, they do not seem to take it to the next level by pointing out how awesome it is that we are still loved, and how utterly joyful you become when you come face to face with the truth.

The Canopy Red EP displays unique vocals, musical variety and quite a bit of deep thoughts and inner contemplations. In general, Canopy Red clearly has the depth and musical sound necessary to continue on to an even more outstanding future release, one which will hopefully feature a more stand-out rock sound and slightly more upbeat lyrics.

- Review date: 4/4/10, written by Samantha Schaumberg of Jesusfreakhideout.com