The new CD kicks off with three riff-heavy rockers that send a clear message--Kutless is back and ready to rock on their first release with new members Jeffrey Gilbert (drums) and Dave Leutkenhoelter (bass). The rhythm section came over from Seven Places a year ago, just after Strong Tower was recorded.
While four FM-friendly ballads follow (Smile, Promise of a Lifetime, Mistakes, Changing World) , the other songs on the project showcase the band's twin guitar attack (Ryan Shrout and James Mead) along with Jon Micah Sumrall's strong vocals that keep the lyrics upfront.
My favorite song is probably Legacy, the final track. It's got great lyrics carried on a driving rock beat. However, since I like every song on the CD, I don't think you can go wrong with Hearts of the Innocent if you've enjoyed Kutless in the past.
You can watch the video for Shut Me Out at the BEC website. Be sure to visit the official Kutless website.
See my 2005 GMA interview with Kutless. I'm scheduled to interview them again on April 4, so watch for that.