Have you ever heard about one more new artist with more than skepticism, just to be blown away when you actually heard the CD? Enter Justin McRoberts. Not only does he have to stand out from all the other rookies, his first major tour was opening for three highly successful bands in a genre far from his own. The amazing thing is that McRoberts has risen to the occasion.

Reason For Living is fresh, original and passionate. Brutally honest lyrics sung with passion from a man who has experienced the hardships of life and knows what it's like form a solid base for this impressive rookie release. McRoberts' acoustic guitar blends with a full band of piano, B3 organ, bass and drums for an "acoustic pop-rock" sound; mixed with McRoberts' passionate and approachable vocals, this creates a unique and enjoyable album. Producer, Masaki, has once again proven his musical mastership.

The lyrics as a whole on Reason For Living stand their ground as well. McRoberts shows his writing skill with honest songs, beautifully penned with original and creative lines. Rarely does McRoberts throw in a cliché, which is more than can be said for a lot of artists. '5th Wheel' speaks of our need for God: "Even in church Lord I'm singing the blues/because I need you that bad/I am the 5th wheel/I am the 53rd card in the deck/I got a kick me sign hangin' round my neck Lord/I'm on the outside lookin' in." 'With Your Eyes' speaks to our need to see things with God's eyes: "With Your eyes I know/I would learn to see/see beyond the fall into the need/With Your eyes I know/I would learn to see/see the only problem here is me."

But almost as impressive as the album is McRoberts' ability to rise above. His first major tour came in the fall of 1999 with the Holy Roller Tour, opening for Five Iron Frenzy, the Insyderz and the W's. Not exactly an easy task, considering the unknown artist has to play a different style of music than the swarming crowd of rambunctious teens expects. But McRoberts has been working with teens for years--he brought a charisma to the stage that won over the predominantly ska crowd. He has an infectious attitude, and I can only imagine how wildly successful a smaller concert in a more personal setting would be.

McRoberts has also been able to rise above more than the crowd and the crowded CD shelves. He's risen in life, triumphed over sin and despair with the help of God. McRoberts didn't come to Christ until he was eighteen, after a friend showed him Christ for six years, through the drugs and all. For the next six years McRoberts worked with Young Life helping teens who didn't know God, and his experiences enabled him to get through to them. In 1998 McRoberts' father committed suicide, and McRoberts had to struggle in the silence. All of this has given him the right to be heard, and adds a deeper dimension to his music.

Take time to listen to Justin McRoberts; hear his passion for life and the refreshing musicianship. I think you'll find a new favorite CD. (Kevin H.)