Needtobreathe released their latest album, “The Reckoning,” last week after seven months of studio recording. The Rinehart brothers, Bo and Bear, along with drummer Joe Stillwell and bass player, Seth Bolt, are from the rural town of Possum Kingdom, S.C. They left their small town behind in search for the limelight, which they found. But it will only be greater as this, diverse and theme-packed album takes notice. “The Outsiders,” the band’s previous album, was released in 2009 and hit number nine on the Billboard’s Rock Album’s chart, raising “Needtobreathe” to mainstream notice. “The Reckoning” has not disappointed. It is currently standing at number five on the iTunes top albums chart after the first week of it being released.
The album kicks off with “Oohs and Ahhs” sending the message that they are back with their definite Southern sound and a strong message to portray. The heavy guitar, ripping chorus and potent lyrics of this track throw listeners back into the distinctive style that the band has routinely provided.
“The Reckoning” jumps on a similar path, coming through with a beautiful melody and accompaniment. It focuses on the problems encountered along the path to success, “Easy is a refuge, and it’s an easy place to be / But when the sun shines on you / What will the whole world think?”
Things slow down in the track, “Slumber” which is about the inability to see the beauty of the world around us because of the blinders we have put on ourselves, “Wake on up from your slumber / Come on open up your eyes / Sing like we used to / Dance when you want to.” This song served as the albums single, highlighting the traditional sound expected, but showcasing a new upbeat tune sure to stick in the ears of listeners.
If you have raved over “Mumford and Sons” or “Safety Suit,” this album will not disappoint. It lives up to the hype and more by providing timeless tracks and maintaining that alluring Southern charm. They have publicly proclaimed that they desire to put the sound of true musicianship back into the airwaves, and this is precisely that they have achieved. “The Reckoning” embodies the intricate and honest musical impression they have worked endlessly to leave behind.