A different direction, but they know what they're doing

If you listen to this CD, one of the first things you will notice is a tendency towards country/bluegrass/folk music (as I also noticed in Who We Are Instead.) Don't get me wrong - I am no fan of country music, but Dan Haseltine's familiar voice soothes over any hint of a twang.



I have to say that the words are great. Most kids my age (high-schoolers) are tuned out to old hymns because of the music they are played to, but I believe that in those old hymns are some of the greatest insights ever written.



The music, as I said, is a little different from the style that Jars had several years ago, but I couldn't imagine this style being done any better. If you liked Who We Are Instead, you will LOVE this CD. I would draw comparisons between the style of this CD and some of the first songs on Who We Are Instead: Sunny Days, Trouble Is, Only Alive.



I would say that the best songs on this disc are (in order of track listing) God Be Merciful To Me, I Need Thee Every Hour, I'll Fly Away, Nothing But The Blood, and It Is Well With My Soul.



So, in conclusion, if you like the direction that Jars of Clay has been headed in with their past release, buy this CD. If you are an old-school Jars fan (which I am as well,) know that the style is different and just check it out before you buy it.



Warning: These tunes will get stuck in your head (but you will enjoy it.)

Jars of Clay proves themselves again.

How can I start? When I think of good times, I think of Jars of Clay! Jars of clay is awesome!



J: Jars of Clay is awesome!

A: Aaron loves Jars of Clay (and I am Aaron, but if your name is aaron too, than I'm sure you'll love Jars of Clay)

R: Really! Great Album!

S: Stupendously great!



O: Ohhh, you'll be upset if you don't buy it.

F: Fa-shig-a-dell doesn't come close to saying how great it is.



C: Clearly, you need this album.

L: Love is the thing this time, I'm sure. and I couldn't need you more now.

A: Anyone who doesn't own this album will regret it!

Y: Yes! Thanks for the purchase.



No, but seriously, this is their best work to date. Each album always goes beyond it's predecessor in more ways than I thought possible. Yes, my favorite album before this was Who We Are Instead, but now it's Redemption Songs.



My favorite tracks include:



Everyone.



buy this album. you'll love it.

These songs will be on repeat for a long time.

A one of a kind collection of reinvented hymns and spiritual songs... and Jars of Clay not only pulls it off, they sound very very good.

(Featuring guest appearances by the Blind Boys of Alabama, Martin Smith of Delirious, and Sarah Kelly.)