“We Believe” sympathizes with people in pain, citing forgiveness and love as remedies. “In This World (Murder)” decries the taking of innocent life. A relationship is prized more highly than “shallow dreams” on “Mountain.” Rather than live a lie, a man braces for “The Truth” and is willing to work through relational “Secrets.” Though short on answers, “S.O.S.” and a hidden, untitled song recognize the need to cry out for help and healing when we’re overwhelmed by trials. Elsewhere, the disc includes several positive references to prayer. A newborn’s arrival on the title track leads the singer to ponder, “Where do you go with no destination/No map to guide you?” However …
Such questions get batted around without any confidence that transcendent answers exist—or matter (“It doesn’t matter/We all end up the same”). Some adolescents may identify more with a suicidal person’s despair than his pleas for help on “S.O.S.” Pessimism and shaken faith make “It Wasn’t Enough” and “The World Is Black” downers. The singer misses awaking with his lover (“Ghost of You”). Mild profanities mar several tunes.
Good Charlotte released two versions of this sonically diverse disc: Life and Death. Only the final song is different. While the unique track on Death isn’t disturbing, those fans won’t get “Meet My Maker,” a placid take on the hereafter. Parents who decide that this melancholy menagerie is welcome in their home should choose Life.
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.
