Family duo exhibits honest faith

LaRue Reaching Reunion Records, 2002.

Released in fall of 2002, brother-sister Christian pop-rock duo, Phillip & Natalie LaRue’s album “Reaching” has hit the store shelves. These siblings have been singing together publicly for the last four years, and on this, their third CD, they have focused on writing their own music. Their new cuts examine deeper questions of faith and knowing God. They long to be transparent and real in their faith-walk. This should encourage their listeners to honesty as well.

They note that they have been inspired by A.W. Tozer’s The Knowledge of the Holy, St. Augustine’s prayer and old hymns – songs that express a strong theological concept. Their lyric themes include holiness, surrender unity in the church and one song about angels.

Over the past several years, their music has had radio play, as well video airtime on the Disney Channel. Though their music would probably be mostly geared to youth and young adult, their lyrics, very easy to be heard above the music, boast of deep thought and spiritual insight. Since they are family, their harmonies blend very well. The musicianship on the album is high quality. The band’s sound is excellent and their balance is great.

During this past year they were involved in a short-term ministry in South America, where Philip was near death after a malarial drug reaction. Natalie and Phillip have also hosted the True Love Waits “Seize the Net Goes Live” rally in Fort Worth, Texas, where over 77,000 teens across the country made online pledges to remain sexually pure until marriage. I was encouraged when I heard of their strong stand of faithfulness and holiness. It is evident that these two young adults have strong faith, and want to share this with others.

I do recommend this CD for those who enjoy the pop/rock sound, but especially for those who want to be challenged and have their faith encouraged to grow.

Carol Riediger, a registered piano teacher lives in Chilliwack, B.C. She works as receptionist at the Health Unit and is involved in worship and music at the Chilliwack Central MB Church. Formerly she has been involved in music and evangelism at Saskatoon Youth for Christ and Bethany Bible Institute.