The Book of Genesis tells us that God created "the evening and the morning" on the third day. It's hard to say when is the best time to listen to this southern Christian rock act's rousing tunes, though morning is likely the best, as their anthemic alt-rock is filled with enough praise and worship to get even the most jaded listener through the day. In their 11-year recording history, the band has built up a loyal fanbase, won Dove and Grammy awards, and spent innumerable miles on the road. On Chronology, Vol. 1, Third Day looks back at the first half of their career with a dual CD/DVD disc with characteristic generosity. A handful of live and rare numbers round out new mixes of hits like "Forever" and "I've Always Loved You," while two of their most-loved early numbers, "My Hope Is You" and "Thief," have been entirely re-recorded. The DVD is the real meat here, with five early music videos, six live performances from the Dove shows, and excerpts from eight handheld videos made by fans, which all show how hard these guys can kick it. This is no paint-by-numbers best-of, but an awesome tribute that will satisfy devoted fans and the newly curious alike. --Mike McGonigal
