No.96 - ‘Galaxies’, by The Digital Age (2016)

“I would walk through flood and fire; I’d push against the tide; There’s nothing I won’t do to get to You…”

Let’s take some Imagine Dragons, add a bit of Owl City, mixed together with a tablespoon of Phil Wickham… and you have The Digital Age. A rock rave that understands and delights in the grace of God.

‘Galaxies’ kicks off with one of my favourite openings. A very ominous piano introduction, almost Muse-esque. The following vocals pulled me right in. Superb harmonies, a great chord sequence and incredibly strong voice that is right up my street. This then smashes into the best song on the album, ‘One Pursuit’.  

A slight downside is that the intensity drops a notch almost straight after. Still continuing to be upbeat, but a little more poppy, and less of me wanting to punch the air, crying out “WOOOOO YYYEEEAHHH”. But this is a praise album like no other. The cosmic/electro theme runs throughout and songs differ in style, which is a real breath of fresh air. From the almost Kraftwerkishness of “How Sweet it is” to the stripped back acoustic guitar and vocals of “People of the Cross”. The song “Galaxies” is a bit of cheesy rave but still a great song; “Kingdom Come” would easily fit into a Sunday morning session and the moody and brilliant “Awake Sleeper” brings us back to the intensity that we experience at the beginning.

The album isn't very well known, has never charted and had mediocre reviews. Magazine reviews tend to be first judgements, and they never let the music sink in. This one did hit me straight away and has continued to be a favourite. If you’re looking for something other than ye Hillsongs and Bethels, then head this way. I’m also a big fan of the album artwork. Most of the time the simple, more graphical, compositions are more pleasing to my eye.

The Digital Age formed in 2012 by four members of the David Crowder Band, following their farewell gig. If you like this, then their debut album, ‘Evening:Morning’ is also superb. ‘Galaxies’ was released on transparent vinyl, limited to 500…and would be a much wanted addition to my collection.

Favourite songs - One Pursuit, I Belong, Awake Sleeper



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