Astronomy
Bleach
Tooth & Nail

"Astronomy" is a huge marker in an era of Christian rock that is sadly coming to an end. In April of 2003, the band entered the studio to record their fifth studio album with visions of hope. Then on July 23, 2003 the war in Iraq came crashing in on the band as Captain Josh Byers, brother to Milam and Jared Byers, was killed in action while serving in Iraq. Even before the sad events of July the band had Josh in their hearts and minds as they were writing songs for him. "Tired Heart" was written in April and it portrayed Josh's internal hardships in the war.

Recently the band announced that they would be saying farewell this year. "Astronomy" could possibly be their last album, but I've heard unofficial word that there will be one more.

"Patience," a tender ballad sums up the theme of the album as waiting for the hope to come. Bleach has probably been somewhat unappreciated and ill recognized in the past but they have persevered. "Astronomy" is a solid project musically, one that doesn't just have a couple of tracks that will get played endlessly on radio, but an album that is fully worthy in content and meaning. "Jaded Now" closes the CD with their last bit of worthy advice; "don't get jaded now, the sun will rise."

- Ken W.

http://www.bleached.com/

Astronomy - A Message From the Band