Photographs

Fans of Christian pop/rock know Andrew Osenga as a past member of the Normals and current member of Caedmon’s Call. Somewhat less familiar is his commendable work as a solo acoustic singer/songwriter. Photographs finds him taking the spotlight with a collection of rough-hewn but unfailing eloquent compositions. The album unfolds like a series of snapshots, capturing American heartland scenes in brief, telling glimpses. Osenga’s faith informs his portrayals of noble losers and fragile romantics — tunes like “The High School Band” and “Kara” allow him to deftly spin stories and sketch characters. “When Will I Run,” “Too Far to Walk,” and “We Were Sure We Would Change the World” have a more personal focus, touching upon his family life and career. The brooding, evocative “New Mexico” is the most overtly Christian offering here, and the rolling momentum behind “Kankakee” and the rockabilly-like spirit driving “Vegas” add some spark to this mostly downcast album. Osenga’s vocals are slightly hoarse but always earnest, especially when he delivers simple, heartfelt tunes like “Beautiful Girl.”