Whenever a new band is announced from a label with history of great bands, my heart can't help but leap with joy. Enter Bernard, a three piece ambient rock group from St. Augustine, Florida. When signed to a record label with such distinction as Forever Changed and Cool Hand Luke, it's hard to keep attention away from a new up and coming band. And believe me, there isn't another band more deserving of your attention.

From the very beginning you can tell that this album has a very different feel from your typical teen punk band. Bernard is extremely focused on creating an atmosphere with their music. They even go as far as to include video elements with their live performances. From beginning to end, Bernard hooks you into a feeling and a state with their almost ghost-like vocals and swooping guitar and piano riffs. Songs take you from one extreme emotion to another. Point in case, the call to arms of "To Those of This World" and the crying out of "Some Dream of Happiness."

A View Beyond the Cave is a trip. But it's a trip that I believe everyone needs to experience. You won't find music anywhere else that will take you to another level like this. Look forward to what comes from these guys in the future. I know I sure will.

JFH Reader Review: written by Andrew Brown, 6/7/06, for Jesusfreakhideout.com