Stories showcases added depth for the female-fronted contemporary Christian band following tragedies and new beginnings in the bandmembers' personal lives. While on the road supporting their debut album, they lost all of their collective possessions when their RV burnt to the ground. Bandmembers also gained new perspectives from family health issues, marriages, children, and a lineup change (drummer Jeff Sutton left to pursue his teaching degree). This authentic maturity is a major benefit and gives
Addison Road serious crossover appeal on the tail of hot AC tracks "Change in the Making" and "Where It All Begins." They capitalize on lead singer Jenny Simmons' triumphant vocals, weaving together the best parts of
Britt Nicole, Avalon, and
FFH into a highly danceable party mix. The beats create a contagious energy on "Don't Wait," "Won't Let Me Go," and "Fight Another Day," which was written by the Dove Award-nominated
tobyMac. The album benefits from its back-story, and the upbeat collection connects with sparkling hooks that make
Addison Road's Stories appealing to both faith-based and secular listeners on an emotional level. ~ Jared Johnson