Imagine if you will, a world where the verdant veins of life pass through an otherwise desolate place—a picturesque contradiction, much like a country road unscathed by potholes. That's the world Needtobreathe created in their 2014 album “Rivers in the Wasteland.” Released by this talented American rock band, the album shines with refreshing streams of hope amidst the chaos of modern existence. Who are these minstrels of musical redemption? Brothers Bear and Bo Rinehart, Seth Bolt, and Josh Lovelace—as American as apple pie—who remind us through their lyrics that in our weary land, there comes a river of life, should we choose to find it.
Picture this: in a time dominated by electronic noise and mindless self-indulgence, Needtobreathe revives the classic rock essence with meaningful messages rather than meaningless platitudes. That's precisely what this album does—it digs its roots firmly into God-fearing soil. One glance at the band and you know you're in good company. Sure, liberal critics would say this album lacks the flashy pomp that's mistakenly confused with art these days. But, therein lies its charm; it is unapologetically real.
The first notes greet you with 'Wasteland,' a song that doesn't sugarcoat life's struggles but rather offers a roadmap to navigate them—something that's all too rare in a society running on instant gratification. Here, the band uses 'wasteland' symbolically to mirror our inner voids and the world they see—voids filled by faith, perseverance, and old-fashioned hard work. What a refreshing idea in an age where personal responsibility seems to be shipped away overseas.
Track after track, this album stands like a mighty river that won't be diverted by the winds of change. 'State I'm In' gets those boots tapping. Bear Rinehart’s vocals are unmistakably rugged, yet melodious—an embodiment of strength through a storm. And let’s not forget 'Difference Maker,' which lyrically raises questions in the listener. You have to ask, are you merely a spectator, or the protagonist in your life’s story?
Songs like 'Multiplied' bring us to the heart of devotion—a reminder of that divine love that some folks would rather relegated to the backburner. Critics will say it’s too religious, too forward. Yet, what else is music for if not to voice our deepest beliefs? If hearing the word 'faith' puts you off, then perhaps self-reflection should be on your playlist. You won’t hear that in mainstream pop for sure. This album asks you to consider what kind of human being you are in times of trial.
Equally compelling is 'The Heart,' where the Rinehart brothers give voice to a longing for authentic connection and a sense of direction. Who among us hasn’t needed a compass now and then? Unlike platitude-ridden tracks churned out in corporate boardrooms, here is a song infused with sincere longing and raw emotion. That's the beauty of conservative art—it's not afraid to wear its heart on its sleeve, nor to brandish its convictions like a badge.
'Brother,' a collaboration filled with raw honesty, delves into the significance of familial bonds and friendship—a natural cornerstone of society. If it doesn't make you ponder on the importance of loyalty and unity, then perhaps you're beyond reach, wandering hopelessly in your own wasteland. This song is a sweet reminder that amidst life’s trials, family stands as the lighthouse guiding you to safer shores.
Finally, 'More Heart, Less Attack' closes the album on a compelling note. A message that’s practically unheard of these days—practice compassion and empathy in the face of hardship. True grit isn’t about forcing your ideology down someone else's throat; it's about standing firm in your beliefs while showing a little humanity, something this album encapsulates quite perfectly.
What makes 'Rivers in the Wasteland' remarkable is its power to uplift without breaking the sound barrier or resorting to the auto-tuned drivel echoing through our airwaves. Needtobreathe doesn't need fireworks to catch attention. Instead, they embody a reminder that the truly profound requires simplicity, maybe a little introspection coupled with old-school values. Here’s to finding your rivers among the wasteland, should you be audacious enough to seek them.