Christian Music - House of Heroes

I have to be honest: I had no idea that House of Heroes was Christian initially. You see, their three-song sampler was a free download from Amazon, and I liked it, so I downloaded the full album and did my usual research (wikipedia, etc.), only to realize after we had the music and liked it, that the band is considered under the Christian genre, under a Christian label (Gotee Records), and is on tour with two very well renowed Christian artists (Skillet & Toby Mac). There was much squeeing in the Punk household that day.

House of Heroes is feel-good music. That was my very first impression, and I firmly believe it's the best way to describe it. However -- here's the twist -- the lyrics are not... always. Sometimes the lyrics are downright gruesome and shocking, but, then, I've learned that surprising is exactly the quality I look for in music.

That said, holy moley does my nine-year-old love House of Heroes. I say, "We need music. What should we listen to?" Elijah says, "HOUSE OF HEROES!" (Asher says, "Our Lady Peace." I turn on City and Colour.)

It's a little daunting that he likes House of Heroes so much because the lyrics are a little intense. There's nothing quite as alarming as hearing your beautiful, sensitive chahead singing, "I'm thinking of you when I kill a good man to keep myself from being killed by him." I mean, yikes like whoa.

I do recommend House of Heroes. They are musically solid, lyrically off-beat but clean, and who doesn't love a band that can cover The Beatles and not suck?

(Postscript to add: A much more comprehensive and eloquent review of this particular album can be found at Jesus Freak Hideout.)