The Outsiders

Needtobreathe offer up another collection of sweeping, reverent anthems with 'The Outsiders,' the band's first effort since 'The Heat' earned praise from the Christian community two years prior. This is the musicians' first album as genuine stars, and the music is appropriately huge, with echoing vocals and ringing guitars that take their cues from arena rock. Such epic material has become standard in the CCM world, where the influence of U2 and Coldplay is never more than a guitar riff away. 'The Outsiders' also flirts with elements of roots rock, however, from the banjo-fueled twang of "Won't Turn Back" to the title track's Southern stomp. Appropriately, this album covers a wider range than similar releases, and a cameo appearance by Nickel Creek's Sara Watkins helps solidify the band's presence in the upper echelon of CCM. ~ Andrew Leahey, All Music Guide