Sanctus Real - Pieces Of A Real Heart

Artist: Sanctus Real

Album: Pieces Of A Real Heart

Release Date: 3/9/10

Label: Sparrow Records

With a more mature sound to date, Sanctus Real welcomes us with the release of their new album Pieces Of A Real Heart. Containing some of the best lyrics I've heard from the band, the album does seem to take more of a pop rock direction, shying away from their rock sound, which is still present on a small amount of the album.

With the opening sound of the already hit single "Forgiven", listeners can get a good vibe for what the album is positioned towards. The pop rock ballads "These Things Take Time" and "The Way The World Turns" lead up to a personal favorite of mine of the album, "Lead Me". An acoustic driven song, with a fitting string section to add to the song, it talks about frontman Matt Hammit's wife and children and his desire to be a better father and husband. With a resounding chorus of "I'm still a dreamer, a believer", the track "The Redeemer" has a much more laid back feel to it, still coming off rather refreshing to the album.

The only true rock ballad off the album "Take Over Me" features some Anberlin-esque riffs, as well as being a plea to be taken over by our Creator. As the album draws to a close, "Keep My Heart Alive" offers something of a modern worship track, with some of the most honest lyrics heard throughout the album.

Rating: 8/10 Progressing on past their previous works, Pieces Of A Real Heart shows a mature side of Sanctus Real, from the lyrics to the style. Filled with many pop rock ballads, this album is sure to garner a good bunch of hits. This is surely one of Sanctus Real's best works to date.