Things are about to hit the ceiling for the guys from Julian Fist. They have successfully avoided the dreaded"sophomore slump" with their stellar latest release, A Thousand Days. A Thousand Days showcases a band that has found its identity: one with a common core but yet refusing to fit neatly into anyone's box. That is the beauty of this album; anyone can connect with these masterfully crafted songs. Blending earnest lyrics and melodies with elements of modern rock and southern rock into a sound all their own, Julian Fist has produced easily their finest work to date, and possibly one of the finest independent rock releases of the year.Fans of Pushing Audio Platinum will recognize all the stylistic components that made that record fantastic, but production, musicianship, and song-writing have all improved here, the result being an extremely professional-sounding record that doesn't lose the edgy rock feel that seemed to be lacking on their prior releases. The album leads off with"Whipping Boy", and the rock-driven"Headstone," both of which would could easily stand up to any mainstream rock tune on the radio today."Pieces" follows and shows the improved and diverse song-writing skills of the band. A touch of sampling, a pounding kick, along with subtle guitars and organ support the powerful vocals of Mitch Taylor as he sings through the pain and confusion of a relationship about to fall to pieces. Taylor has some of the best rock vocals heard in some time, and his voice sounds spectacular here and through out the album."Pieces" slides right into a sweet soft drum groove that then explodes in to two great rock tracks"Breathe Out" and"Drama Queen". Two straight ahead edgy rock songs with Taylors soaring vocals and fantastic guitar work.The album hits its stride then slows things down with"Did I," a fantastic rock ballad that blends an acoustic softness about the struggles of maintaining a faith not always seen. Taylor's voice shines once again in a booming chorus questioning if he has done enough on this earth to serve his God. Throughout the album the lush harmonies evoke powerful emotion and again showcase the amazing song-writing on A Thousand Days. There is not a weak track on this 11-song album. Other highlights include"Bloom," which could easily be heard on any country radio station today with its straight southern rock and smoking guitar solo and slide work and"Billy," a mid-tempo, organ infused rocker. Just try to listen to these songs without tapping a toe or bobbing your head. The final track on the album"Believe" is the true gem. Stripped down piano which allow Taylor’s voice to soar to the Heavens in one of the most beautiful chorus' heard in a long time. The piano masterfully continues to build to a driving chorus of timpani and chimes and is such a classy way to end this album.A Thousand Days is an interesting title for this collection. Seeing as it has taken Julian Fist eight years to put out this piece of work. They could have faded away into the world of long lost bands but they chose to come back and come back stronger than ever and let their music speak for itself. Heck, there is not even one picture of the band on the album. Again, how many times can I say classy. Michajluk obviously does not have issue with wearing his spiritual aspects on his sleeves because they are present in the lyrics, and the music itself connects with the soul at times, but this is simply solid music that reflects the band that produced it. It will connect with believers and cynics alike, taking each of them on a beautiful musical journey. Julian Fist may still feel like a small independent band, but this album is sure to convince many to let them play with the big boys.