Inland
Artist: Jars Of Clay
Label: Gray
Matters / 139TH BROADWAY
Release Date: August 27, 2013
Duration: 12 tracks, 50:29
Jars Clay has become one of the corner stones of CCM with
its alt-rock, pop sensitivity and lyrical story. As is true for many of the
works of Jars Of Clay, there is a Christian message imbedded in a message for
all. And this is the model Christ gave us - to give his message to all, to
accept all in our life’s conversation. True to this model, Jars gives a message
of our struggle with faith, what it means, how it feels.
What makes Inland different from their last few offerings is
a return to very early recordings with a youthful, pop-oriented sound and
lyrics. The message is bright and shines in lyrics that at once promote a
singular, strong general thought while provoking any number of personal
feelings. This is part of the gift vocalist Dan Hasseltine has in phrasing very
well written lyrics. But lyrics and vocals alone do not complete the package. Without
outstanding, simple but profound guitar work and very solid rhythm the songs
would not hold meaning.
“After The Fight” gives a fresh, dramatic entry to the
album’s story amid heavy bass backing with a message of the struggle we can
face with our faith. With an orchestrated string arrangement, “Age Of Immature
Mistakes” takes us back to youthful trial and error. “Human Race” tells of the
sorrowful state humanity has become, but not be a downer, the song’s harmony,
wild lead guitar, and backing horns give hope. A sweet, slow message of hope
persists in “Love In Hard Times” with ‘Sometimes I just want to feel your hand
in mine’.
Dark tales are present in “Pennsylvania” and “Loneliness
& Alcohol”, the later being dark like its title with slightly echoed vocals
and a deep, low beat leaving this tune dripping with sadness and loss.
“Skin & Bones” is a great example of how Jars Of Clay
can musically and vocally bring a song to its fullest height in message. The
album’s story completes with its namesake ‘Inland’. Beginning with a vocal
cadence like a child’s rhyme, a slide guitar builds to a strong melody with the
refrain “You keep walking inland, no man is an island, you are home to me …love
will set you free”. This is Jars at their finest.
The beauty of Inland is how the independent songs meld
together to create story. This is the mark of a fine piece of art. As a whole,
the message is not only intact but has a greater meaning. For Inland, the
meaning is faith and life can be a struggle, but hope remains that peace and
love are found at the end of the journey, all is forgiven, we are accepted, we
are forgiven, we are loved. With this, Jars of Clay has provided a true message
of the journey that is Christian faith.
Scott S Mertens
4 1/2 tocks
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