Royal Tailor (album)

Last updated
Royal Tailor
RoyalTailor.jpg
Studio album by
Royal Tailor
ReleasedOctober 22, 2013 (2013-10-22)
Genre Christian rock, worship, pop rock
Length42:46
Label Essential
Producer Chuck Butler, Aaron Lindsey, Christopher Stevens
Royal Tailor chronology
Black & White
(2011)		Royal Tailor
(2013)
Singles from Royal Tailor
  1. "Remain"
    Released: July 12, 2013
  2. "Ready Set Go"
    Released: September 2, 2013

Royal Tailor is the eponymously named second and final studio album from Christian pop rock band Royal Tailor. It was released on October 22, 2013 by Essential Records, and was produced by Chuck Butler, Aaron Lindsey and Christopher Stevens. The album was well received by Christian music critics, and is Royal Tailor's highest charting release to date.

Contents

Music and lyrics

At Cross Rhythms, Tim Holden told that the release has "a wonderful mix of musical styles that blend seamlessly together to produce some truly excellent pop music." [1] Grace S. Aspinwall of CCM Magazine wrote that the album contains "The slick vocals from Tauren Wells and the solid electronica-pop songs are fun and upbeat." [2] At Indie Vision Music, Jonathan Andre highlighted that "From the first radio single to the last epic album finisher, Royal Tailor is an album that'll hopefully reach a wide audience with its unique and musically diverse tracks providing us with themes of hope and identity." [3] Lydia Akinola at The Christian Manifesto stated that the band is not your typical boy band rather they "are more than a copycat version of 'this artist' or a blatant rip-off of 'that band': these boys actually can sing, and this is the album where they prove it." At Jesus Freak Hideout, Alex Caldwell noted that the band "cuts a funky, dancy path along some serious subject fault lines." [4] Roger Gewicks of Jesus Freak Hideout stated that "Conceptually, not much has changed for Royal Tailor since Black & White, but rather they've solidified their sound", and wrote that "While Black & White seemed a little disjointed with competing genres between individual songs, this effort is a bit more unified, majoring on a slick pop vibe with electric guitars and synths still distinguishable from each other." [5] Also, Gelwicks stated that "Tauren Wells' vocals are still as tight as ever, reaching the high notes with a humble reserve that uncannily fit the band's pop approach." [5] At Christian Music Zine, Joshua Andre wrote that "Beyond a shadow of a doubt, Royal Tailor has defied the 'sophomore slump' and proven to everyone that their musical and songwriting craft is evolving rather quickly." [6] Laura Chambers of Christian Music Review told that if you are seeking out the "meaning of life and the way to live" that the release was "a mixed bag of messages that all point to who and what we were made to be and do." [7] At The Phantom Tollbooth, Josh Marihugh wrote that the music comes "with hooks designed to pack the dance floor." [8]

In terms of lyrics, Aspinwall told that "While the lyrical landscape didn't stray far from their previous album, the sonic maturity is clear and indicative of a very promising future." [2] Jonathan Andre wrote that the group "have set out to give us an album of 11 songs that provides us with encouragement, God-breathed lyrics of purpose, identity and clarity, as well as music fun to dance to as the album hopefully reaches a wide audience in terms of age bracket and musical tastes!" [3] However, Akinola stated that "Lyrically, they may not impress any poet, but clichés aside, the message is loud and clear", but noted that "What they lack in finesse, they more than make up in conviction." [9] Also, Gelwicks told that the album has "Too-basic lyrics are still a key trouble that burdens Royal Tailor's creative direction", but "the band has locked onto a reliable sound that they can sell convincingly." [5] Joshua Andre wrote that "Though on the surface they seem like another pop/rock boy band, while they do have clichéd lyrics sometimes, at most times lead singer Tauren, guitarist DJ, bass guitarist Blake and drummer Jarrod highlight their songwriting prowess and their ability to entertain while still delivering the ever true message of God." [6] At Louder Than the Music, Richard Smith said the album was "packed full of positive lyrics that point to Jesus." [10] Lastly, Smith noted how "The lyrics are top form, well constructed, fun and strong with Christian elements and themes flowing throughout." [10]

Critical reception

Professional ratings
Review scores
SourceRating
CCM Magazine Star full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svgStar empty.svg [2]
The Christian ManifestoStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svg [9]
Christian Music ReviewStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svg [7]
Christian Music ZineStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar half.svg [6]
Cross Rhythms Star full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svg [1]
Indie Vision MusicStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svg [3]
Jesus Freak HideoutStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar half.svgStar empty.svg [4]
Star full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar half.svgStar empty.svg [5]
Louder Than the MusicStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svg [10]
New Release TuesdayStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svg [11]
The Phantom TollboothStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svg [8]
Worship LeaderStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar full.svgStar empty.svg [12]

Royal Tailor garnered critical acclaim from music critics. At Cross Rhythms, Tim Holden noted that "The songwriting, arrangements and production are top notch and even the couple of songs that feature guests collaborators - TobyMac and the Capitol Kings - sit well in the general mix", and he called it "An exceptional release." [1] Grace S. Aspinwall of CCM Magazine stated that "Their self-titled sophomore project looks to maintain that momentum" of their debut release. [2] At Worship Leader, Andrea Hunter wrote that the "Songs veer from aural assault to evocative and beautiful love songs, and lead singer Tauren Wells has warmth and nuance to spare." [12] Jonathan Andre of Indie Vision Music called the album "thought-out and well-delivered". [3]

At New Release Tuesday, Kevin McNeese wrote that all of his "doubts" went by the way side after listening to the album once, and noted how he will be mentioning this work "a decade from now." [11] At Jesus Freak Hideout, Alex Caldwell wrote that the album "shows great growth", and believed that "A few more tracks like the opening and closing ones here and Royal Tailor would truly have a great album to match all those nifty production choices." [4] Furthermore, Caldwell noted that "A few more tracks from wherever this bonus track came from and this album would have earned another star, and a bit more staying power." [4] Roger Gelwicks of Jesus Freak Hideout affirmed that "Though their second album isn't a huge leap forward, Royal Tailor know their audience and are still a fun listen; the next step is trying something truly different." [5]

At Christian Music Zine, Joshua Andre praised this for being "an impressive album, and here’s hoping the third album raises you yet again to even greater heights!" [6] In addition, Andre stated that the release was "one of the most eclectic and enjoyable pop/rock albums of October!" [6] Lydia Akinola at The Christian Manifesto felt that the release was "bold, catchy and likeable" of which was "bursting with energy and life, defying the notion that popular Christian music is all show and no substance." [9] Also, Akinola alluded to how "Royal Tailor shows the signs of more seasoned professionals from the get-go, without compromising on the joie-de-vivre that made the debut so intoxicating." [9]

At Louder Than the Music, Richard Smith noted how the release was "brilliant" and it "really gives you a positive feeling, and would definitely get you up if feeling down." [10] Laura Chambers of Christian Music Review said that "A few minutes of Royal Tailor's new self-titled album might be a good place to start if you're looking for some encouragement." [7] At The Phantom Tollbooth, Josh Marihugh noted that the band "has put together a strong, well-crafted album here" on which from the opening note was high energy that "never relents." [8] In addition, Marihugh criticized the album for containing a "slick-produced sound" that makes the music not stand out compared to other musical works. [8]

Track listing

No.TitleWriter(s)Length
1."Got That Fire"Tauren Wells, Chuck Butler, Michael Fordinal4:06
2."Jesus Love" (featuring tobyMac)Wells, Butler, tobyMac 3:03
3."Original"Wells, Jose "Manwell" Reyes, Steven Michael Hernandez3:31
4."You Are My Rescue"Wells, Jason Ingram 3:21
5."Love Song"Wells, Chris Stevens3:36
6."Ready Set Go" (featuring Capital Kings)Wells, Cole Walowac, Jeff Pardo3:29
7."Remain"Wells, Jesse Frasure, Carey Barlowe4:26
8."Start Over"Wells, Blake Hubbard, Jarrod Ingram, DJ Cox4:12
9."Making Me New"Wells, Fordinal, Pardo3:33
10."Give Me Faith"Wells, Hubbard, Jarrod Ingram, Cox3:32
11."Fight for Freedom (Let the Walls Fall)" (bonus track)Wells, Hubbard, Jarrod Ingram, Cox, Aaron Lindsey5:57
Total length:42:46

Chart performance

Chart (2013)Peak
position
US Billboard 200 [13] 95
US Christian Albums (Billboard) [14] 3
US Independent Albums (Billboard) [15] 17

Related Research Articles

<i>Christmas in Diverse City</i> 2011 studio album by tobyMac

Christmas in Diverse City is TobyMac's first full-length Christmas album as well as his fifth studio album. It was released on October 4, 2011.

<i>Nothing Left to Fear</i> (Andy Cherry album) 2012 studio album by Andy Cherry

Nothing Left to Fear is the first studio album by Contemporary Christian musician Andy Cherry, released on March 6, 2012 by Essential Records.

<i>Love Come to Life</i> 2012 studio album by Big Daddy Weave

Love Come to Life is the seventh studio album by Christian contemporary Christian music band Big Daddy Weave. The album released on April 17, 2012 by Fervent Records and Curb Records. The album was produced by band member Jeremy Redmon. The album has charted on Billboard 200 and Christian Albums charts at Nos. 68 and 8, respectively. The song that was released as the lead single from the album was "Love Come to Life," which peaked at No. 6 on the Christian Songs chart, and the second song was "Redeemed," reached No. 1, becoming their second song to achieve the feat.

<i>The Alignment</i> 2012 studio album by Samestate

The Alignment is the first studio album by Christian alternative-rock band Samestate, released on February 28, 2012, by Sparrow Records.

<i>Light Up the Sky</i> (album) 2010 studio album by The Afters

Light Up the Sky is the third studio album and fourth album overall from contemporary Christian music band The Afters, which the producer on the album is Dan Muckala, and was released on September 14, 2010, by INO Records. This album has seen some commercial and critical success.

<i>Clear the Stage</i> 2012 studio album by Jimmy Needham

Clear the Stage was the fourth studio album from Christian contemporary Christian musician Jimmy Needham, which was released on March 27, 2012 by Inpop Records, and was produced by Ed Cash and Jimmy Needham. The album has seen commercial charting successes, as well as, positive critical attention.

<i>Kings & Queens</i> (Audio Adrenaline album) 2013 studio album by Audio Adrenaline

Kings & Queens is the ninth studio album by Christian rock band Audio Adrenaline, the only Audio Adrenaline album with Kevin Max as the lead singer and the last album with bassist and founding member Will McGinniss. The album was released on March 12, 2013, and was the first album after their comeback and with the Fair Trade Services label. Kings & Queens garnered critical acclaim from music critics, and has seen chart successes.

<i>We Wont Be Shaken</i> 2013 studio album by Building 429

We Won't Be Shaken is the eighth studio album by Christian rock band, Building 429 and their sixth with a major label in Essential Records. The producers on the album are Rob Hawkins and Jason Ingram. It was released June 4, 2013 through Provident Music Group distribution. It was nominated for "Best Contemporary Christian Music Album" at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards. It lost to Overcomer by Mandisa.

<i>All Things New</i> (All Things New album) 2013 studio album by All Things New

All Things New is the first studio album by contemporary Christian music band All Things New, released on April 9, 2013, by BEC Recordings. Casey Brown and Jonathan Smith produced the album.

<i>Bring Your Nothing</i> 2013 studio album by Shane & Shane

Bring Your Nothing is the eighth studio album by the Contemporary worship duo Shane & Shane. The album was released on May 14, 2013 by Fair Trade Services record label.

<i>Radiate</i> (album) 2013 studio album by Tricia

Radiate is the second studio album by American contemporary Christian musician Tricia, released on August 13, 2013 by Inpop Records. The album has seen commercial charting success, as well as, positive critical attention.

<i>Heart</i> (The City Harmonic album) 2013 studio album by The City Harmonic

Heart is the second studio album from Christian rock band The City Harmonic, which was released on September 3, 2013 through Integrity Media, and was produced by the band in association with Jared Fox. It received a nomination for Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year at the Juno Awards of 2014, but lost to Trees by Tim Neufeld.

<i>1 Girl Nation</i> (album) 2013 studio album by 1GN

1 Girl Nation is the eponymous debut studio album by contemporary Christian music girl band 1GN, which was released on the Reunion Records label on August 20, 2013, and was produced by Casey Brown, Jason Ingram, Joshua Silverberg, Jonathan Smith, Jon White and Kipp Williams. The album has been met with commercial charting successes and positive criticism.

<i>God of Every Story</i> 2013 studio album by Laura Story

God of Every Story is the third studio album by Contemporary Christian musician Laura Story, which the album was released by Fair Trade Services on September 30, 2013, and the producer of the album was Ed Cash. The album has seen commercial charting successes, as well as, it has garnered positive reception from music critics.

<i>The Hymns Sessions, Vol. 1</i> 2013 studio album by Jimmy Needham

The Hymns Sessions, Vol. 1 was the first hymns album by contemporary Christian musician Jimmy Needham, released independently by Needham through NeedHim Music on September 10, 2013, and it was produced by Needham. The album has seen commercial charting successes, as well as garnered critical acclamation.

<i>The Neverclaim</i> (album) 2013 studio album by The Neverclaim

The Neverclaim is the eponymous debut studio album from contemporary Christian music band The Neverclaim, which was released on September 24, 2013 by Essential Records, and it was produced by Jason Ingram and Paul Moak. The album has seen commercial charting successes, as well as, it has received critical acclamation by Christian reviewers.

<i>Dreamers</i> (album) 2013 studio album by Shine Bright Baby

Dreamers was the debut studio album by contemporary Christian music band Shine Bright Baby, and it was released by BEC Recordings on July 23, 2013. The album received barely positive reception from music critics.

<i>I Am They</i> (album) 2015 studio album by I Am They

I Am They is the first album by I Am They, released on January 27, 2015, on Essential Records.

<i>Broken Temples</i> 2015 studio album by Kevin Max

Broken Temples is the sixth album from Kevin Max. Blind Thief Recordings alongside Motion Records released the project on March 10, 2015.

<i>Only You</i> (Karyn Williams album) 2012 studio album by Karyn Williams

Only You is the first studio album from Karyn Williams. Inpop Records released the album on August 28, 2012.

References

  1. 1 2 3 Holden, Tim (November 9, 2013). "Review: Royal Tailor - Royal Tailor". Cross Rhythms. Retrieved November 9, 2013.
  2. 1 2 3 4 Aspinwall, Grace S. (November 1, 2013). "Royal Tailor: Royal Tailor (Provident Label Group)" (PDF). CCM Magazine . Salem Publishing. p. 70. ISSN   1524-7848 . Retrieved November 1, 2013.
  3. 1 2 3 4 Andre, Jonathan (October 21, 2013). "Royal Tailor – Royal Tailor | Reviews". Indie Vision Music. Retrieved October 22, 2013.
  4. 1 2 3 4 Caldwell, Alex (October 20, 2013). "Royal Tailor, "Royal Tailor" Review". Jesus Freak Hideout. Retrieved October 22, 2013.
  5. 1 2 3 4 5 Gelwicks, Roger (October 21, 2013). "Royal Tailor, "Royal Tailor" Review: Second Staff Opinion". Jesus Freak Hideout. Retrieved October 22, 2013.
  6. 1 2 3 4 5 Andre, Joshua (October 21, 2013). "Royal Tailor – Royal Tailor (Review)". Christian Music Zine. Archived from the original on October 23, 2013. Retrieved October 22, 2013.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
  7. 1 2 3 Chambers, Laura (October 21, 2013). "Royal Tailor "Royal Tailor"". Christian Music Review. Retrieved October 26, 2013.
  8. 1 2 3 4 Marihugh, Josh (December 6, 2013). "Royal Tailor - Royal Tailor". The Phantom Tollbooth. Retrieved December 6, 2013.
  9. 1 2 3 4 Akinola, Lydia (October 21, 2013). "Royal Tailor". The Christian Manifesto. Retrieved October 22, 2013.
  10. 1 2 3 4 Smith, Richard (November 25, 2013). "Reviews - Royal Tailor - Royal Tailor". Louder Than the Music. Retrieved November 26, 2013.
  11. 1 2 McNeese, Kevin (December 30, 2013). "This Is What A Perfect Album Sounds Like!". New Release Tuesday. Retrieved January 2, 2014.
  12. 1 2 Hunter, Andrea (January 21, 2014). "Royal Tailor". Worship Leader. Retrieved January 22, 2014.
  13. ↑ "Royal Tailor Chart History (Billboard 200)". Billboard. Retrieved October 31, 2013.
  14. ↑ "Royal Tailor Chart History (Christian Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved October 31, 2013.
  15. ↑ "Royal Tailor Chart History (Independent Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved October 31, 2013.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article
Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.