Description

Ulf Christiansson, singer, songwriter, guitarist, and motor of classic Christian hard rock band, Jerusalem, has written 13 songs for this 2003 album. Rumours says that this initially was made to be a new Jerusalem album, but instead it became a solo album using just his first name Ulf. This is not a hard hitting album but an album full of strong melodies and an up to date fresh sound with songs that hold a very smooth and high quality. His voice has never sounded better, stretching and pitching from a mere whisper to a thunderous climax. Fans of Jerusalem’s Prophet album might figure out what to expect. There are many similarities to U2 on many of the tracks. The album rocks but doesn’t shake the roof. “It’s Not Easy” opens the album in fine fashion, yet even though the guitar is there it seems to go off into some pop explorations. ‘Rip my Heart Out,’ ‘Godspeed to You’ and ‘Die to Myself’ fall into a mix of rock with overly melodic choruses. There is a great mix of rock and well crafted pop sensibilities as well. Smooth and melodious, is not always something that is associated with Ulf’s vocal style. Usually he brings a much harsher delivery but here his vocal really blends well with the material. Lyrically topics of self sacrifice, dying to self, Wisdom, and being the same on the inside as out are given the Ulf treatment. Always biblical, but done in a way that is tasteful and not clichéd. Ulf has crafted a disc that is exceptional and memorable. He allows the songs to breathe and grow instead of just shoving them into some pre-made sleeve. Album oriented Rock it’s called, AOR, which moves the heart and soul with a message of perseverance and hope.

Track list:
1. It’s Not Easy
2. Rip My Heart Out
3. Die To Myself
4. Entertainers And Soldiers
5. Hope For Tomorrow
6. Kings And Spears
7. Touch You
8. Godspeed To You
9. Homeland
10. Have To Go
11. Happiest Man
12. Glorify
13. Stupid Man