Jadon Lavik released his debut album Moving On Faith on BEC Recordings in summer 2004, but the record didn't really start to pick up steam until early 2005. His single "What If" became remarkably popular and caused word of the release to spread quickly. Before long, he had grabbed attention enough to be talked about as a top new artist for the year. Now in 2006, Jadon follows up Moving On Faith with his sophomore effort Life On The Inside.

The new album has a solid theme that will both uplift and challenge the listener; it opens with "Changing Happy," a great first track that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The song talks about finding true happiness in the midst of a world where "we've all tried to cover sadness and sorrow with temporary things that never seem to last." "Father," the first single off the album, follows next and is a much slower, very heartfelt song that shows God to be the only One who can provide this true happiness; it stands out as one of the best songs on the album.

Two other highlights on the disc are "Outside" and "Meant To Be," and both display Lavik's songwriting ability as well as his talent as a musician. Found right in the heart of the song order, they epitomize the theme of Life On The Inside - looking past what we can see with our own eyes and finding the place we're supposed to be, outside of earthly things.

The album has its weaknesses as well, not being anything too out of the ordinary and staying safe at times. Some songs seem like they've been thrown hastily together and don't always stand out from one another. Additionally, though there are thirteen songs on the disc, "What If" and "Searching" are both cuts from Moving On Faith and are the same recordings listeners have heard before.

These complaints aside, the album is a good sophomore effort from a promising young artist. It won't stand out from the rest well enough to be a hit, however. Even with room for improvement, Jadon Lavik delivers what should satisfy anyone who enjoyed his debut, but it may leave some new listeners unexcited.

- Review date: 3/4/06, written by Spencer Priest