Root, By the Tree's first album without founding member Kevin Rhoads, finds the group branching out (hey, if they can pun, so can I) away from its modern worship beginnings, and squarely into traditional guitar rock & roll. Chuck Dennie, the sole remaining founding member, is now joined by a line-up that includes former Sonicflood member Aaron Blanton, and newer members Charlie Goddard and Ben Davis. Producer Joe Baldridge works with the group for the first time, and the result of this new blend of talent is a much fuller, richer sound and lyrics that speak more to their own personal struggles and words of encouragement, than moments of worship. But don't worry, it's not a jarring switch. Casual listeners may not even notice the lyrical left turn.

The group's guitars, bass, and drums all feel more fluid and congealed than ever before, and Dennie acting as the sole presence on vocals gives the album greater cohesion (as opposed to when he and Rhoads used to tag-team). Dennie also serves as the primary songwriter now, and it's impossible to ignore that he's in fine form -- rocking out on high-energy tracks like "Far Away," "Confessions," and the ultra-heavy "Faith That Breathes," conjuring up lovely melodies to go with words of comfort and consolation on ballads like "Your Arms," or stretching himself on the gritty title track, "Root of It All," or the harmony-rich anthem "Shoot Me Down," with its clever lyric.