There are a couple of bands who decide to explore the heavier side of Christian music. One has become a favorite of mine.

This band is Red.

Red released their fourth album, “Release the Panic,” on Feb. 5, 2013. Red’s style is simple: They have mostly heavy, headbang-worthy tracks, mixed in with a couple of slower, more mellow songs. That doesn’t change on “Release the Panic.” The title track, “Release the Panic,” and “The Moment We Come Alive” are prime examples of these opposites. “Release the Panic” is a heavy track for anyone who loves this side of Red, a side that I love, as are “Damage” and “Perfect Life.” “The Moment We Come Alive” is a slow song, very moving in it’s lyrical content. “Hold Me Now” is another example of Red’s slower side. All of Red’s tracks, whether they be slow or fast, are amazing in their own right.

Most people would criticize a band for not changing over the years, and Red isn’t excluded from this censure. However, from “End of Silence” to “Release the Panic,” Red has stayed loyal to who they are. I admire this, and it doesn’t seem like they will be changing anytime soon. With the way their music is now, I don’t mind one bit. All-in-all, I'd give this album a three and a half.