The Blackstones
The Legend of Simon Peter
Independent

The Blackstones have arisen from a band once called The Tremolo Cowboys. The Tremolo’s earlier sound, as I described back in 2002, was organic, classic rock, and worship. With the new transition, and couple of new players, The Blackstones have adhered to that classic sound with awesome guitar leads and a steady rhythm that is sometimes bluesy, sometimes rock, and all worship.

The album is aptly titled as it is somewhat of a topical album. As it was stated in their press materials – “Nearly the entire record is written around this ‘Simon Peter’ type story line that includes Peter’s denial of Christ, some amount of questioning and some amount of answering.”

I truly appreciate the more upbeat tracks like “Coming Around,” I Love You,” and especially “The Day Without End,” however, there is even more power in the softer worship songs like “How Can I Live,” “Saved,” and “Come Back.” This last track is my favorite, as there is this really cool guitar solo that just kind of paces along with the rhythm really smoothly.

The Blackstones have certainly shown growth since my last review in 2002. I am envious of those on the Pacific Northwest, what with bands like The Blackstones, The Listening, and a lot more cutting edge worship bands right in arms reach, how awesome would that be!

- Ken W.