The Listening
The Listening LP
Independent

The Listening LP marks a new era for the former Rock and Roll Worship Circus. With the return of old friends and the realignment of more recent members the band has set forth on a new path. Along with the new moniker, there is also a shift in musical styles. The new LP generally sticks closely to the RRWC’s nostalgic sound, but it is more subdued and trance like and there is less of the colorful or exuberant sounds that emanated from projects like Big Star Logistics. Lyrically, the album is very serious, as was historically true of the Circus’ previous independent work.

Overall, their message is still the same, and they still consider themselves to be a worship band. That is what they do best. I have to admit, the Circus was (and the Listening remains) one of my favorite bands. Watching them live, you get the feeling that leading worship is their gift, and it is easy to see that what they are doing is having an impact. Not that it should matter, but with the new name change, there may be fewer uniformed-skeptics who are merely turned off by the use of the words “circus” and “worship” in the same sentence.

As an added bonus, the CD comes in a set with a second CD of three RRWC favorites including a newer version of “the Undiscovered.” Prior to receiving the new CD, I was able to listen to a few of their latest tracks on the bands myspace page. Between myspace and their official site there is ample opportunity to check out the new incarnation of one of the greatest worship bands ever.

- Ken W.