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As more and more bands continue to put out mediocre, uninspired releases, it’s nice to see a band go against that trend.  Seven Places second offering, Hear Us Say Jesus, bucks any idea of a sophomore slump.  Vivid, vertically aimed lyrics accompany catchy, upbeat modern rock tunes for an album that’s sure to grab your ear.

On this go round, Seven Places ditches the pop-punk sound that liked to rear its head on their debut Lonely For the Last Time.  With Aaron Sprinkle at the helm once again, they’ve evolved their sound into something more reminiscent of Third Eye Blind or Vertical Horizon.  Vocalist Seth Gilbert even sounds a bit like Third Eye Blind’s Stephen Jenkins on “Even When” and “Watch.”  His creatively melodies fit perfectly with the layered guitars of Tony Pallotta.  Seven Places’ more mature sound includes the addition of piano and strings, which can be heard on “I Look Upon Your Hill” or “Holes in His Hands.”  The stand-out track here is definitely “We’re Almost There” with its soaring melodies and driving guitars.

Lyrically, Hear Us Say Jesus is clearly more ministry based than Lonely For the Last Time.  The step toward bolder lyrics is always a dangerous move, but Seven Places pulls it off quite nicely.  The lyrics aren’t quite what one would call “worshipful,” but they are certainly rooted in Christian faith.  “Even When” is a celebration of life in Christ.  “Fall in Line” is an anthem encouraging the wholehearted worship of Christ.  Uplifting lyrics permeate every second of this album.

In the end, it was probably a smart move for Seven Places to refocus their musical energy.  It’s nice to see a band with so much potential continue to expand, regardless of commercial success or critical acclaim.  It takes a lot to do that, and Seven Places should definitely be applauded.

Zach Delph 11/17/04
http://www.zeejaydeedesign.com

With the Seven Places' second album, Here Us Say Jesus, this pop rock bands proves it isn't afraid to wear spirituality on its sleeve.  Contrary to the Christian bands that don't always come straight out and say "Jesus" in their songs (they'll say  "Him" or other pronouns that imply Jesus), Seven Places sings His name loud and clear.  "Lyrically this album is all about finding creative ways to say 'Jesus.' Sometimes bands want to be poetic, so they take the word "Jesus" out and just symbolically paint the picture of Jesus. We wanted to be creative and say the name Jesus at the same time," says Seth Gilbert, the lead vocalist.

The album starts off strong with "Fall in Line," a radio friendly tune with smooth, strong vocals and a solid rhythm guitar that carries your attention right into the next songs. Listening to "Even When," I definitely see why people have compared Seven Places to The Newsboys.  Though I don't think Seven Places has reached the same level as The Newsboys (The Newsboys have quite a few years of experience on them, plus a little bit different style), there are defining licks and vocal performances that parallel the sound of the critically acclaimed Newsboys.   The lyrics aren't too bad either:

Even when my eyes are dry
Even when my soul is tired.
Even when my hands are heavy
I will lift them up to you
It's not about how I feel,
Oh Lord, I am here for you.
Lord I exist for you

Over all, Hear Us Say Jesus is full of hope-centered music that will definitely lift your spirits and hopefully put your focus to God.  I would definitely suggest checking it out.

Sarah Verno, 11/27/04