When you hear the word fire, what do you think of? Combustion, where fuel is ignited and combined with oxygen, giving off light and heat? A passion, excitement or enthusiasm? A lively imagination? Strive's piano-rock album tries to encourage the latter two.

Writer Derick Thompson says that most of the songs on this project were inspired by his relationship with his wife. Thompson makes a burning passion for love quite evident, and this works to add a personal touch to the album. The main problem with Fire, however, is that it stays very safe musically. There was no real build up between songs, and a number of them sound very similar to each other. Of course there are a few exceptions - one being the first track, "Smallest Things." It's very well constructed and talks about "beauty being all around us," encouraging us not to take the little things for granted. Listeners will also find that there are a number of "deja vu" moments on this project. It was very easy to compare songs to those from projects by artists such as Coldplay and Snow Patrol (especially the song "Leave with Me").

Overall, Fire is not a bad album, but at the same time it does not stand out. I think this may be due to the fact that there are so many bands around at the moment with a similar sound. If Strive were to step out of their comfort zone, whilst keeping their enthusiasm, they could certainly be onto something to get excited about.

- Review date: 10/11/08, written by David Couch of Jesusfreakhideout.com