Ruth - Secondhand Dreaming
Reviewed by agloriousruin
Secondhand Dreaming, the debut album from Tooth and Nail's Ruth, is a sparkling rock album full of effecting vocals, strong melodies and solid instrumentation. Fronted by Dustin Ruth (though the band claims the name is an acronym for Return Us To Him), who sounds a lot like Switchfoot's Jon Foreman, the band succeeds in creating a memorable group of songs. Mostly upbeat rock tunes reminiscent of bands like Third Eye Blind and Switchfoot, they take a few detours along the way, including the spright, country-tinged "Here To New York," the softer "Mr. Turner" and the introspective album closer "Well With Soul." When the band really lets go, though, their radio friendly rock is a joy to listen to. [www.ruthrock.com]