Nevertheless Live Like We're Alive Flicker Records Rock 09-19-2006

SCORE 83%

One of the most common complaints about life is that we're living just to get by. It seems that realism has taken the wind out of our proverbial sails and left us with little to dream about and wish for in life. To that end, we settle into a steady job to pay the bills, be responsible, and care for our families. This pattern of life leaves us all but lifeless, drained of enthusiasm, excitement, or the appreciation of all that life can be. But in the Bible, we're promised an abundant life - a life marked by hope and joy.

Though it sounds almost far-fetched in this day and age, the latest addition to the Flicker Records roster, Nevertheless, offer a ten track pop-punk indulgence that assures listeners that it's quite possible to Live Like We're Alive. Opening with lead single "The Real," the album encourages us to know fully what we believe and stand firm in our faith. The album stresses the importance of being active in our lives, noting in several songs that our time on earth is short. The title track bolsters this assertion, asking us to take risks, step outside of the lines and "do more than survive." "Perfect Chemistry" may be the most gripping song lyrically, admitting that we are all imperfect beings, but that love - which should be at the center of our relationships - can more than compensate for our shortcomings.

Though many of these themes may feel slightly familiar, the lyrics tend to be less than typical, providing a new approach to the thought process. The music backing this presentation, however, falls right in line with several other bands entrenched in the pop-punk genre. Though Nevertheless doesn't conspicuously sound like any one particular contemporary, it's almost as if they took a broad paintbrush and swept it through the pop, rock, and punk genres, gathering glimpses of the top bands to paint into their own music. The result is a rather strong performance with tight production, but it doesn't feel like a firsthand experience. Listeners will catch not-so-subtle nods to the likes of Relient K, Eleventyseven, and New Found Glory.

Overall, Live Like We're Alive offers listeners a nice glimpse of the pop-punk scene with a nice, pleasant sound and some worthwhile lyrics. This isn't an album for those looking for a unique sound, but if you're a fan of the genre, this will fit in with your collection nicely. It's a decent enough debut and Nevertheless certainly has some potential, but it would be nice to see some originality on future releases.