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Given the wealth of diversity in Christian rock today, it's hard to imagine a time when self-expression wasn't readily encouraged. In fact when Petra first began 35 years ago, they stirred up controversy as one of the first bands to mesh searing guitars with spiritual lyrics. But in the decades that followed, the group not only defined a sound, but paved the way for the genre's acceptance—all while breaking numerous sales records and ruling the charts.

But now it's coming to an end as the band calls it quits with one final tour, captured on this blistering 65-minute set. The current line-up consists of singer John Schlitt, guitarist/songwriter (and founder) Bob Hartman, bassist Greg Bailey and drummer Paul Simmons, who—along with a few special guests—provide a generous amount of Petra's most beloved songs. From the opening electric snarls of "All About Who You Know" to the bass-directed groove "Dance" to the equally enduring "Creed," the group is at its all-time tightest.

The balance of golden oldies and relatively new cuts continues with the metal-tinged "Right Place" and the alternative arrangement of "Test of Time." But it's the two ten-minute segments "Rock Medley" and "Acoustic Set" that are most intriguing. The first traces snippets of classics like "Sight Unseen," "It Is Finished," and "This Means War," while the latter features ballads like "Road to Zion," "For Annie," and "The Coloring Song," complete with longtime singer Greg X. Volz. An additional surprise comes via former keyboardist John Lowry, who enhances an already heartfelt rendition of "Grave Robber" with his calming chords. As this essential concert album closes with the mighty "He Came, He Saw, He Conquered," it's evident that Petra will always mean rock.

© Andy Argyrakis, subject to licensing agreement with Christianity Today International. All rights reserved. Click for reprint information.

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