7eventh Time Down ‘Alive In You’

Written by: Jay Wright (9/11/2011)

7eventh Time Down has been around since the members were kids, but now they prepare for their BEC Recordings debut release, Alive In You. And you might be surprised to know that even as a rock band, 7eventh Time Down’s goal is ministry first, rock second. Led by the title track radio single, the ten-track album is a declaration of who we are in Christ. Hearing the heart of 7eventh Time Down through their debut project Alive In You is certainly inspiring, and it’s not hard to see why the rock group is quickly picking up fans, as they have already shared the stage with popular acts Kutless, Family Force 5, Skillet, Group 1 Crew, and more.

Opening the album, “I Need Someone” is a track Mike wrote about missing his wife during studio time, and is a cry out to God, asking God to help him get through the difficult track. The lyrics, however, are general, and is definitely an inspiring worship track that many people can relate to, when going through difficult times. The lead single “Alive In You” follows, building adrenaline and reminding the listener of Seventh Day Slumber’s worship album, building into a strong and solid worship/rock track. It reminds us that Jesus is the one who keeps us alive, and He is all we need. 7eventh Time Down’s worship-meets-rock music is very enjoyable, as is the fact that their enjoyable rock is kept focusing on God, something that seems to be missing in many bands today.

You wouldn’t guess that “What About Tonight,” with it’s grunge rock opening, is a track based on Hebrews, speaking of today being the day of salvation;  but by listening to the lyrics carefully, it’s a great reminder. “Get Me to You” is a love song, strong with a nice string backing. Whether or not the track is directed to the lead singer’s wife or to Jesus is not specified, but considering 7eventh Time Down’s openly Christian lyrics, I would assume the track is directed to Jesus Christ. It speaks of climbing the highest mountains just to  be with the One you love.

“World Changer” is upbeat, but also digresses into a piano portion here and there, and reminds us that it only takes one person to change the world, and is a prayer that we can be that one. “Do You Believe” is a rocker, but is also a call to salvation, and a song that 7eventh Time Down has already seen God work through. I can’t wait to see Him work even more through this powerful song!

“Jesus Machine,” perhaps the most energetic song on Alive In You, is fun speaking of enjoying life under salvation and encouraging others to “jump on the train” as well, while “Jesus Parade” is a southern rock track with a bit of lead guitar, and is just fun and enjoyable all the way around, but with a great message of loving the world the way Jesus does.

“Worship Jesus,” speaks of giving your all to Him in worship, and is actually an original worship track that the group wrote after not being able to attend church due to touring; for this reason, the track is very poignant and personal. The album is closed by the slower “Rusty Nails.” First contemplating the work of Christ, and how He came to give us life, the track progresses to speak of the day when we will see Him as He is and sing “Hallelujah” forever.

7eventh Time Down’s debut BEC Recordings album Alive In You is definitely a good one, but I think anyone who hears this album will agree that the highlight is the worship/rock mixture with powerful lyrics. This album has an incredible array of tracks: From the strong radio single “Alive In You,” reminding us that we are nothing apart from Christ, to the contemplative and deep “Get Me to You” and “Do You Believe?” to the closing powerful worship anthem “Rusty Nails” –  this album has something for everyone. If you’re someone who loves worship music that’s more upbeat, you will definitely want to check out this project!

4.7/5