Sad but true. However, “Over the Rooftops” fairly drips with sincerity, and some strong rock chops too. The album was first released independently in 2004, but since then was picked up by 7 Spin Music and Provident Distribution. This 2 year gap explains a lot. The talent is clearly there: well-crafted songs, tight arrangements, and frontman Fred Butson’s vocals are capable both sonically and emotively. But the material, while strong and well-presented, lacks an edge. Sevenglory is better than “Over the Rooftops” leads you to believe. Still, it is not a bad album; far from it.
Sevenglory offers solid message-driven rock and roll, covering themes like our dependency on God (pop track “Fall Apart,” with its simmering organ), encouragement (the hooky “Really Free,” its soaring melody line flying high over the poppin’ bass ), and our need for His guidance(“Big Top” asks the tough questions). The tone is completely honest throughout; you can always sense Sevenglory’s respect for their audience. I liked the sonic stew of “This Time,” reminding me a lot in its tone of another favorite youth band, Among Thorns. The quietly worshipful “Waiting For You” stands out for its lush arrangements; their sound was greatly enriched on this track by Andrea Butson’s background vocals.
Another standout is the simply-titled “Track 7,” thick with tasty guitar treats. This passionate song of commitment contains the insightful line: "It’s more than just emotion/ it’s a state of mind.” I enjoyed the strong programming touches contrasting the airy chorus on “Love You Forever.” “Over the Rooftops” closes powerfully with “Ever Be Enough,” a stark piano ballad that highlights Butson’s emotive vocals. The song is especially meaningful considering the band’s heart for youth, addressing honest struggles with doubt and self-image with seasoned wisdom and heart. “Over the Rooftops” may not represent Sevenglory perfectly at this time, but it certainly is strong enough to make you eager to hear their next project.
