Handling the overall theme of the brokenness of the world with a steady hand, Islander solidifies their place as a band with a clear voice that demands to be heard.
Navigating Brokenness: “It’s Not Easy Being Human” by Islander
Author: Zachary Van Dyke
I have developed a love and appreciation for music since I first heard Audio Adrenaline's "Some Kind of Zombie". As a teen, I felt myself increasingly drawn into the lyrics of music as a tool to search for God, and it is through this continued exploration of lyrics that I put together a core belief: that where words fail, music speaks. In tune with that, I believe that God will be found wherever he is looked for - including music that comes from beliefs that differ from my own.
I currently hold a Bachelor's of Science in Religion: Christian Ministries from Liberty University. In pursuit of this degree, I discovered a love for writing that I have put to use in my explaining what certain albums mean to me. This has translated to a passion to discern God in the lyrics of music and explaining those discoveries to other people. This has mostly been done on my own, but I am incredibly excited and honored to partner with Rock On Purpose to share in our mutual love of music.
Mourn with Those Who Mourn: Thinking About Lament
Rock music has a unique way of communicating pain. Its often visceral and raw sound is the perfect complement to the weight hurt often carries. When all within us wants to shriek and scream, metal expresses for us what’s going on internally.
Claustrophobic Spaces: “Black Box” by Amongst the Giants
Metalcore group Amongst the Giants has graced the scene with a new jam: "Black Box." There is a desperation felt through the musicality of this song that never relents, perfectly fitting with the theme of internal anguish. Raw, yet refined; crunchy, but smooth; aggression meets torment.
Every Side of Life: “Death By Admiration” by Seventh Day Slumber
How does a band that has been around since the late 90s put together something fresh and new? Seventh Day Slumber's response to that question is their latest album Death By Admiration, an album that sees the band exploring territory they've only teased before.
Honest Faith: “Pain Split” by Plead the Widow’s Cause
Filled with equal parts melody and hardcore drive, Pain Split is an album that is easy to listen to, but it still packs a punch that won't soon be forgotten.
In Memoriam: “Eulogies” by Wolves at the Gate
ulogies is a beautiful record from a band that fully knows what they are doing— and is really good at doing it.
Staying Alive: “#choosetolive” by Amongst Wolves
Manchester, UK-based alt-rockers, Amongst Wolves recently released their full-length album #choosetolive. The project is an eclectic journey through the world of mental health, addressed from a Christian perspective.
The Influence of God: “Slow Medicine” by Laura McElroy
Laura McElroy has put together an excellent narrative-album that explores life in all it offers: the good, bad, and indifferent. There's a sense of tranquility that can be felt while listening, almost as if it is providing rest for the listener.
Light in the Dark: “Heavy” by Relent
Heavy is an album that you can lean on, rock with, relate to, and emote through.
Who Sustains You? “Eternity” by Whom I Serve
Whom I Serve's Eternity is a hard-hitting album that pulls no punches about the band's faith
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