The Other Side

iTunes Review

This Nashville-based trio recalls such harmony-oriented Christian bands as 4Him and Phillips, Craig, and Dean, as well as current hitmakers like MercyMe and Casting Crowns. Sam Allen, his sister Laura, and bandmate Chad Smith display their affinity for traditional gospel in richly resonant singing styles. Tracks like “He’s Alive” and “Before I Go” are fervent testimonies delivered with conviction. No Other Name tempers its fondness for prayerful balladry with dashes of arena-rock energy (“Let It Start with Me”) and simmering pop grooves (“Even Angels”). A country element is also present, heard most clearly in “Maplewood Methodist Church,” a story-song that wouldn’t be out of place on a Vince Gill album. The trio keeps an upbeat accent to its lyrics, especially when its members are looking forward to heaven’s blessings in tunes like the title track and “Midnight Cry.” Sam, Laura, and Chad are especially impressive vocally on their a cappella rendition of “Christ Arose.” You won’t find flash or ambiguity here, just exceptional singing and unshakable faith from first track to last.