Anorak

Ruth is at its best when dispensing catchy, melodious alternative rock that captures the aims and ambitions of its young Christian followers. And if this is the criteria, then nearly every track on the band's sophomore disc, Anorak, deserves attention. At times they sound like Fastball, the Posies, Gin Blossoms, the Afters, Leeland, Switchfoot, and even Wilco. The band doesn't bend the rules much, opting to simply do what they do best. This doesn't translate as a lack of willingness to experiment, but more like the security to say that they don't need to make a huge artistic statement other than being who they are. Highlights include the poignant "Nothing to Hide," the twangy "Forgetting to Remember," and the straightforward declaration "Who I Was and Who I Am." Ruth isn't earth-shattering, but there's no need to be when you're this good at pleasantly simple alternative rock.