WHAT A SOLID ROCK ALBUM. Yes, all of the songs are in caps, showing great enthusiasm, urgency and commitment to aesthetic. The band brings a soulful swing: less of their signature California rock, more of a classic Americana vibe. The overtly faith-based songs like “JOY INVINCIBLE” and the title track “NATIVE TONGUE” fuse a U2 sound with youth group sweetness. “DIG NEW STREAMS” and “LET IT HAPPEN” are the obvious headbanging, air-guitar-playing, twist-and-shout-able tracks, though there isn’t too much of a contrast from song to song. Overall, the album is optimistic and strong, but not altogether revolutionary.
Rating: 7/10
Fantasy Records
Producer: The Foreman Brothers
