Your favorite Floridian American rock band is coming out with an acoustic album, if you haven’t already heard! The project as a whole is by far the most sentimental of the band’s work to date, being created at a time incredibly difficult for everyone involved, as Gilbert (lead guitarist) was steadily fighting his cancer diagnosis throughout. Gilbert is still amidst his battle, but has expressed to multiple outlets that his hope is that this record, though downhearted, gives people a sense of confidence and wonder in life for what’s ahead even in the darkest of places. 

Providing seven stripped-down tracks we’re all very familiar with from NFG live, there are just as many new songs that exemplify the tenderness intended to be carried throughout the album. The live versions of our well-known favorites lend to the theme of Make The Most of It, keeping it intimate and close to the group and its fanbase. 

The concept of how fast-moving life can be is nothing foreign to the band and is revealed in many of the latest works. “Kiss the Floor” explores this well, along with all the unknowns that can come with it all. “Mouth to Mouth” is a beautiful dedication regarding the CPR performed by Gilbert’s wife, Lisa Michelle Cimorelli, that ultimately kept him alive. “Watch the Lilies Grow” is another tribute to an important family member of Gilbert’s, being his daughter, Lily. 

Altogether, Make The Most of It is a carefully thought-out, vulnerable, intricate record. It not only leaks into the heart of what music can mean, but supports and comforts you in periods of anguish and misfortune.

9.5/10