With their new release Back Home, the folk worship band Caedmon's Call restablishes itself as a leader in the Christian praise/worship genre. Back Home is pure Caedmon's Call, with a clean acoustic sound and inspiring vocals.

The title Back Home is appropriate for this album. The first track, "Only Hope," speaks of God being our only hope even though we fail. "Hands of the Potter," explains how we as Christians are continually on our way back home to the Father. We are the Lord's clay and He is shaping us. This album is very encouraging to someone who might be experiencing hard times. When listening, I was reminded of the fact that God is in control in all situations.

The attitude of the record can be summed up in the chorus of "The Emptiest Day," And I/ am looking for the well that won't run dry/ the rest the weary thoughts cannot deny/ when you wrap your arms around me I can walk away or face the emptiest day.

Musically, this album is excellent, although in a few cases, too similar from song to song. The percussion is outstanding, flowing with the music and yet intricate and never boring. The vocals are clean and clear. The fact that the background vocalists often switch with the lead vocalist keeps you interested as you listen throughout the album. I did find myself slightly disappointed that the electric organ from other Caedmon's Call releases is not as prevalent on Back Home. Yet, the sound is complete and never comes across as empty. Nothing seems as if it were missing.

Altogether, Back Home is another fabulous offering from an already established band. It is worthy of being added to your Caedmon's collection. Any fan will be delighted with this album, yet, if you are not familiar with Caedmon's Call, I would recommend purchasing their 2001 release In the Company of Angels before Back Home.

- Review date: 1/31/03, written by Matt Parker for Jesusfreakhideout.com