Critical Ear

Album: Good Monsters
Artist: Jars of Clay
Label: Essential Records
Sounds like: Crowded House

Redemption Songs seemed almost like a side-project, but Good Monsters feels more like an event than a dabble in Americana, a return to a more rock than rustic Jars, one we haven’t heard for a while.  While the music runs from urgent and rumbling to joyous and contemplative, the deliciously poetic lyrics are some of Jars’ best. They need some deconstructing, but are like the constant cracking open of rocks to reveal gemstones, including the central message that Christians need to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.  Jars of Clay are one of the few Christian bands making artful, thoughtful pop music that sells.  Where would we be without them?

5/5

Nick Mattiske