Jars of Clay – The Long Fall Back to Earth
Jun 8, 2009 CD Reviews
Posted by
wiegmake
Jars of Clay
The Long Fall Back To Earth
Gray Matter
Grade – B+
I figured people would jump all over the fact that this was the bands first independent release on the newly formed Gray Matter label. While their newfound independence will certainly allow them some artistic freedom, I do not think the new album is any more progressive than what they have done in the past.
The most notable difference on The Long Fall has more to do with the production than the label. There is a noticeable difference in style between the self-produced tracks and the tracks produced in cooperation with Ron Aniello. The tracks co-produced with Aniello have more of a techno sound added to them.
As far as content goes, the band remains true to their usual profound and meaningful lyrics. The song “Two Hands, “ considered the cornerstone of the album, is consistent with the bands social-justice and missions orientation. It is a song about the human struggle with selflessness. I quote from Dan Haseltine, “one side of us wants to serve Christ and love others, while the other side is concerned only with looking out for ourselves.”
As a band, Jars of Clay is an excellent example of what can become of such a ministry over time. They have paid their dues and they have earned their success and rewards. Along that same path, they have excelled at giving back. The new album is a good sign that this effort is not about to stop anytime soon.
- Ken W.
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