Rush of Fools

The release of Rush of Fools’ self-titled debut dropped as they were still basically graduating high school. Yet, that album, which spawned Dove award nominations for “New Artist of the Year” and “Song of the Year” for the hit, “Undo Me,” propelled the young but talented quintet into the hearts of fans everywhere. Now a with a bit of experience under their belt, the band forges ahead with their sophomore release, Wonder of the World, and offers up more of the same.

Contrary to the title, this album leaves little to be wondered at or imagined as radio-friendliness works its way through most of this typical record. Yet, that being said, Wonder of the World should not be ignored. Just because there are some predictable elements and retreads doesn’t mean that it’s necessarily bad. Did crowds stay home from watching The Dark Knight because the Batman/Joker combo had been done before? While some lyrics are generic and melodies age old, other songs hold their value with attractive pop Christian overtones. And all the songs offer worship in the sense that they are directed toward God and either exude confidence in God or applaud His character.

Now I’m not really a fan of English grammar interjections; it simply implies laziness in that they could not find a lyric to sing, so they just filled in some non-value added words. Two out of the ten tracks, “Lose it All” and “Never Far Away,” employ this device. Yet, despite that flaw, they’re still worth a listen as the former song screams “I wanna lose it all for you” literally while rocking out to the sounds of jumpy guitars and enjoyable octaves. The latter is very radio-welcoming and has the beginnings of a country song whilst breaking out the ever-popular exclamations “oh” and “whoa.”

Vertical songs to God,telling of His moral fiber, are a highlight here. “There is Nothing” showcases a chorus that tells us despairs, sicknesses, miseries, or wildernesses can abide, but that God can save us from anything. However, the only standout in this song is the edgy guitar bridge. U2 has made a cameo in the title track “Wonder of the World” with its quick guitar strums and clean ringing strings. And elected as the leader of the vertical song brigade, “Holy One” becomes the most worshipful song on the album offering up an incredibly appealing chorus. Alluring chorus lines also take place in “You are Glory” resuming with a rousing guitar riff while proclaiming the we “all fall, all fall, all fall short of You.” With a very smooth and moderate pace “Escape” discusses a God who constantly chases us and never lets us flee. “The Only Thing That’s Beautiful in Me” is easy on the ears containing a very simple, relaxing volume, but has an abrupt ending leaving little contentment.

Contrasting with the vertical worship tunes, come two songs illuminating the benefits of seeking out a God who gives. You will drown in the melodies of “Tonight” and in the faithfulness of God that Rush of Fools portrays in this work of art. Lead singer Wes Willis’ soft-spoken tones and breathy requests of “make me complete” let you identify with his heart. “Freedom Begins Here” is another solid tune which features whispering undertones with quick same-word transitions to strong vocals. Definitely a vocally led song, this one will draw you in with the hook and “let your freedom begin.”

Throughout Wonder of the World, listeners are saturated with recurring themes of God’s goodness and faithfulness while at the same time experiencing the rewards of the Christian life. And while this album didn’t grow on the uniqueness and creativity trees, it may have come from the “it doesn’t matter” tree. The demonstration of memorable refrains, well-done verses and motivating instrument collaborations outweigh the absence of overall originality. This album warrants a listen.

Tagged as: Rush of Fools, Wonder of the World

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