Aware by Salvador

Reviewed by Dale Lewis

"Aware is not another boring, run-of-the-mill Christian album. It's fun, engaging, downright funky and full of simple, yet convicting, lyrics."

Salvador is the one band I'd pay the big bucks to experience live in concert (okay, money doesn't grow on trees in my backyard either). I might even try to sneak my trumpet in and make a guest appearance on stage, (but I'd have to practice more than I did in high school.)

When the opening cut, “Fly Again,” started, I immediately morphed into an air bass guitar with movement that bordered on an unorthodox “Footloose,” (all in the privacy of my living room).

The title track and first ballad “Aware,” beginning with a keyboard introduction, is a heart cry for God to continually remind the believer “that everything I am is not all about me.” Nic Gonzales on lead vocals energetically draws the listener into praise to the Almighty, whether it is an upbeat tempo or a slower ballad.

Salvador's solid percussion and rhythm section superbly compliments their tight brass instrumentation. Professional and passionate musicianship is exhibited throughout this collection in both vocals and instrumentation.

The only negative to “Aware,” are a few vague words and somewhat old phrases used in lyrics, like: “the better life” and “plan to save the day.” Prime cuts include “Fly Again,” “What Would It Be Like,” and “Brand New Love.“

Aware is not another boring, run-of-the-mill Christian album. It’s fun, engaging, authentic, downright funky and full of simple, yet convicting, lyrics. I've always liked them . . . maybe I’ll see you at their next concert doing a little footloose!

Dale Lewis now mans the front desk at the EFCA (The Evangelical Free Church of America) National Office in Minneapolis, MN. He was the graphic designer/pre-press production artist for over twelve years before being asked to step into this new role. Prior to that, he was the publications manager at his alma mater, Northwestern College in St. Paul, MN in the public relations office as well as the adviser to the college’s yearbook. He's a director/actor/writer for the Hope Church (Oakdale, MN) adult drama worship team and was the senior editor of the church newsletter. He's also written two collections of poetry, “Whispers of Assurance” and “On Life: Constant Communion Without Ceasing” as well as a devotional entitled “Eternal Education.” He and his family live in Oakdale, Minnesota.