2003 brought the debut of a very promising band named Cool Hand Luke. Their laid back, coffee shop brand of emo/rock on Wake Up, O Sleeper earned them recognition in the Christian rock scene. They weren't the kind of band that was ever going to explode, but rather the kind that would have a smaller, more devout following. This had nothing to do with their talent. None whatsoever, in fact. These guys were terrific. The problem lied in the fact that, as stated, their music could only reach a certain audience.

The Fires of Life is the much-anticipated follow up to their debut. And, if anything, it's actually a bit more laid back than Wake Up, O Sleeper. Whereas Wake Up… relied a bit more on a rock edge, The Fires of Life takes the more melodic side of that release and expands it over most of the fifty-five minutes of this disc.

The lyrics speak with no apology about Christ. The subsequent tracks "I'm Not Ready" and "Sequence #3" talk about dying to yourself and following God. "Cinematics" says "If my life were cinematic… You'd be the Hero, and You would save me… If I'm supporting actor, and the Oscar goes to You." Cool Hand Luke has a knack for down-to-earth, yet very spiritual lyrics; and they do it with pro form.

Is The Fires of Life better than Wake Up…? Good question. Unfortunately, I can't really answer it. Their sophomore effort is a bit more atmospheric and moody than their debut, but so very, very good in that aspect. And there aren't many aspects at all you can complain about here. Bottom line, Cool Hand Luke is a band that is mature beyond their years, and one I highly recommend checking out.

- Review date: 06/18/04, written by Josh Taylor