Above the Golden State - The Golden Rule

Producer: Information Not Provided
Record Label: Sparrow Records
Website: http://www.abovethegoldenstate.com

I’m going to just go ahead and admit it.  I just don’t get it. I mean - I understand releasing debut records of new artists that you’re developing (see EMI’s trend with bands like Philmont, Abandon, and Sarah Reeves) that aren’t full length.  But what I don’t get is when the artist has already released one full-length record - why their sophomore album has to be six songs.  It almost feels like a demotion for the artist.  First - it was Josh Wilson who released the stellar Life Is Not a Snapshot 6 song record last year after releasing a full-length album the year before.  Now, it’s Above the Golden State.  The group’s self-titled debut did fairly well for the band and spawned off the hit singles “Sound of Your Name” and “I’ll Love You So.”  The bands sophomore outing is - you guessed it - a 6 song release.  The Golden Rule definitely picks up where Above the Golden State left off - this is youth-group based pop/rock - similar to acts like Sanctus Real, Starfield or mainstream rockers Weezer.  “The Golden Rule” was the start off point for the band - both lyrically and musically.  The mid-90’s rock feel has a nice hook and easy, radio-friendly sound.  Lyrically - the song is pretty much all about what the title suggests - but also a return to faith of sorts.  “I Am Loved” - the debut single - recalls more of the band’s first two singles and speaks of God’s continual presence in our lives.  “The Real You” tackles the subject of authentic Christianity - experiencing a real relationship with God rather than a typical Christian subculture based life.  Musically, it’s got a fun, catchy melody and engaging bass line.  “Tragedy” continues the theme of “The Real You” - but puts it into perspective as it talks about life’s darker times.  It’s also the darkest song and most driving on the record as well.  “Teach Us” features a swelling accompaniment before peaking and taking it softer towards the end.  It’s got a more alternative feel that fits the band well.  Overall, The Golden Rule is a nice follow-up to Above the Golden State - but it would have been nice to hear a full-length sophomore outing to see if the band really has made strides to being a better artistic entity. 

Track listing:
1. The Golden Rule
2.  Chance to Love
3.  I Am Loved
4.  The Real You
5.  Teach Us
6.  Tragedy