Sparrow recording artist Robbie Seay Band is back with Give Yourself Away, a sophomore release that is likely to blow away fans and first time listeners. Better Days, the band's freshman debut, was little more than a mediocre offering to fans of the worship genre. A couple of the songs on the record had potential, but the easy worship feel made it better suited for church play rather than iPod playlists. Give Yourself Away, however, takes an enormous step towards the mainstream market.

As progressive music with exposed, insightful lyrics stemming from a biblical message, Give Yourself Away is a rather mature second outing. "Song of Hope," the first single off the album, is already getting major radio play and is quickly finding itself beating out songs released by bands with more mainstream play. "New Day" is a piano-driven ballad that will bring a smile to your face, while "Go Outside," a song openly inspired by the victims of Hurricane Katrina, is a slow paced song which will bring you to your knees in worship. "Starting Over" is upbeat and reminds listeners that even though you may mess up, you can always begin anew. "Rise" is the opening selection and is inspired by Invisible Children, a documentary about the tragedies in Uganda, which is currently circling the nation with play in churches and Christian campuses alike.

Give Yourself Away is clearly an album driven to make listeners examine their faith and realize that no matter what kind of need everyone may be in, there is always hope and there is always help in some form available to them. This album is the answer for any fan wanting an alternative record with a hint a worship, or for anyone who is simply looking for hope in a poverty stricken world. If you're a new RSB fan, skip their freshman debut and pick this one up instead.

- Review date: 8/27/07, written by Jessica Gregorius