Despite feeling torn, a man elects to ride out a stormy relationship on “Right Where I Belong.” “My World” challenges someone to rise above mistakes and refuse to be a victim (“There is always someone to blame for the things you do yourself/You think everything that’s going wrong is because of someone else”). Lead singer Brad Arnold chooses to “Live for Today” rather than dwell on past regrets. Similarly, “Never Will I Break” pledges to press on in the wake of broken promises. A son assures his mom that she’ll be proud of the life he carves out for himself (“Be Somebody”), while thoughts of a woman back home ease a musician’s travel fatigue (“Landing in London”). The tender ballad “Here By Me” values love above possessions as it asks an ex for a second chance. Although some reviewers are calling “Father’s Son” a dark morality tale about breaking abusive patterns …
Families may feel uncomfortable with that cut’s obscure references to violence, alcohol and teen prostitution. “Right Where I Belong” includes a profanity and implies that a couple shares a bed (unclear marital context).
On Seventeen Days, love that isn’t lost is on life support. But relational angst aside, caveats are few and the band maintains a positive, boot-strap attitude about dealing with trials.
After serving as an associate editor at NavPress’ Discipleship Journal and consulting editor for Current Thoughts and Trends, Adam now oversees the editing and publishing of Plugged In’s reviews as the site’s director. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children. In their free time, the Holzes enjoy playing games, a variety of musical instruments, swimming and … watching movies.
