On their sophomore release, Illuminate, the members of the David Crowder Band leave no one in the dark regarding their collective talents. This 16-song set rides a sonic edge that is helping lead modern worship into new, uncharted territory. The six-man group is unabashed in putting 21st century, Christ-centered optimism to a brilliant innovative sound. The songs have as much depth as you would expect from a group that blends three guitars, an electric fiddle, a punching bass, and endless drum loops. Lead man David Crowder adds a layer of poignant thoughtfulness with his ponderous lyrics. Their collective synergy cannot be hidden, as verses rise to chilling anthems in toe-tappers like "How Great" and "No One Like You." The first single, "O Praise Him (All This For a King)," climbs to ecstatic climax in hailing the regality of the Savior. The guys don't get carried away, though; they lay down enough quiet spots like "Only You" and "All Creatures #2," for you to digest the passionate testimonies that drip from every beat. Even the reprises and interludes have something to say: the instrumental "Coming Toward," for example, could be a soundtrack for spiritual awakening. Don't expect these guys to do anything quietly. There's too much in them begging to be heard. ~ Jared Johnson, All Music Guide
Track List
(try tracks 2,3,5,6,7,8,10,11,12,13,14 and 16)
This is the album that defines David Crowder Band for me. Many of these songs resonate with me on two levels. On one hand, I can sit and get carried away by the musicality of each and pay no attention whatsoever to any of the lyrics. On the other hand, the lyrics are creatively strung together and can carry me away into an intimate worship experience that I don't get often. Other albums by other artists may have one or two tracks like this, but not like this whole album does.