If there’s anything to be learned from the recent political uprisings in the Middle East, it’s this: everyday people can do extraordinary things – if they have courage. Now, obviously I’m not comparing Egypt and Tunisia to The Fervor‘s new album that came out today (lest I be labeled the new Kenneth Cole). Arise, Great Warrior, however, has a slow and steady message of encouragement that could tip the scales of fear and self-doubt to the side of peace and fortitude.

The Fervor originally began with husband and wife Ben and Natalie Felker, then grew to include drummer Mat Herron and bassist Michael Campbell. They’ve toured through most of the eastern half of the United States, and played festivals such as CMJ and Forecastle. Arise, Great Warrior is the band’s fifth studio effort.

I’m not familiar with The Fervor’s previous albums but with a band name like theirs, I expected their music to be more… well, fervent. Arise, Great Warrior, however, is more like a soothing reassurance than a battle cry. That said, each of the seven tracks on the album displays honest craftsmanship with regards to what each member contributes to the band. I love the gritty guitar riffs in “Clearly As The Sun” and echoing, almost haunting supporting vocals in “Crazy For The Feeling.” My favorite track is “Bent Around a Dying Dream,” a constant ebb-and-flow between Natalie’s steady, tranquil vocals and the guys’ tempo-switching, attention-grabbing musical breakdown. I hope the band’s objective in this endeavor was not to spark a riot, but reconcile troubles or worries within the listener – if so, they definitely succeeded.

The Fervor will play next at Derby City Espresso in Louisville on Feb. 13. Arise, Great Warrior is available today through Karate Body Records.