Why Needtobreathe isn’t a household name is beyond me.  They’ve got everything they need to become one of the biggest names in the music scene today.  And in my opinion, Needtobreathe is one of the most influential bands to hit the scene for some time.  So if you’re one of the many people who say “Need to who?” when you hear their name, go out and pick up any of their three CD’s – you will not be disappointed.

     While a lot of other bands will piggyback off of their first CD’s success; that’s not the case for Needtobreathe and the newest addition to their CD lineup, “The Outsiders”.  Each one of their albums has shown us growth and maturity, and not just as musicians but as people as well.  The growth and maturity the band has gone through since the release of “The Heat” is evident throughout the entire album.  The band is definitely stepping up musically and lyrically.  From beginning to end, “The Outsiders” will educate you in the etiquette of fine music.  Each and every lyric that this band has put to paper has the ability to impact you like no other band out there today – that goes for each and every one of their records.

     Bear has nothing to prove on “The Outsiders” when it comes to his smooth and unique vocals… their first two CD’s are testament to the talent this man has, but this time around Bear shows the “bluesy” and soulful side of his vocals on many of the tracks.  And although older fans will not be disappointed in the album, I feel a lot of the tracks will bring on new fans that may not have liked their previous work.

     Even though I have nothing but good things to say about “The Outsiders”; I don’t feel it’s their best work.  “The Heat” is a tough album to beat, and even though it was a close race… I feel “The Outsiders” makes second place when comparing all of their albums.  Although, “The Heat” and “The Outsiders” are almost incomparable when it comes down to it, I feel “The Heat” had slightly stronger songs and more meaningful material.

     “The Outsiders” may not be their best work to date, but it’s still worth every cent you’ll pay for it… and more!