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Jars of Clay
a review by Bright Eyes

Jars of Clay as a Whole
The raw self-titled debut release from Jars of Clay is quite a tapestry of deeply spiritual lyrics, spine-tingling harmonies, and intense guitar melodies that defies placement into any single music category. Dan Haseltine, Matthew Odmark, Stephen Mason, and Charlie Lowell have definitely created a sound like no other in contemporary Christian music. This freshness breaks all conventional molds. Brokenness and the fragility of human beings seem to be recurring themes on the album. The hardships of finding faith through humility are another theme, proving that life can still continue regardless of our trials and our shattered souls. We know this is true because of Jesus Christ's eternal, unchanging love for us.

Liquid
This pumping version of "Liquid" serves as a sharp reminder of what Jesus did for us on the Cross. He made a new, eternal covenant with His own precious blood, and His body was broken --- all for us! Because of these things, we know for certain that we have ultimate freedom.

Sinking
"Sinking" gives a straight-forward portrayal of a deceitful heart. The heart denies God, His love, His knowledge, and His power. But, through the course of the song, the heart denies itself and realizes that God knows better. He is always willing to give assistance even when we are too proud to ask for help.

Love Song for a Savior
The verses of "Love Song for a Savior" offer a representation of the difference between the simple joy and wild abandon we can experience when we are truly in love with Jesus Christ and the dark captivity in false Christianity.

Like a Child
"Like a Child" explains the benefits of having childlike faith. This person is asking the Lord to keep him safe and teach him how to find this healing faith.

Art in Me
"Art in Me" is a moving song which speaks from the perspective of one who desperately wants the beauty inside him to be recognized and appreciated. Then, he learns that God sees the art in all of us, for we are His perfect craftmanship, and He is molding us into a beautiful melody for all to hear.

He
The touching "He" reveals the reality of child abuse while giving evidence of hope and healing through Christ Jesus. He has compassion for us all and will wipe away our tears. He gives power to those are weak, and if we trust in Him, our strength can be renewed and our fears removed.

Boy on a String
Here is a slightly slower version of the Sunflower Song. It addresses the fact that sometimes Christians act like foolish hypocrites. Yet, there is hope here --- hope that we will someday cut our ties to this world and come home to the Father.

Flood
"Flood" immediately grabs your attention with a driving guitar riff. It is a stunning plea for help and healing from someone who truly feels the weight of the world on their shoulders. The soft verses display how broken down this person feels underneath the burdens of their sin and guilt. A beautiful violin solo placed in between one chorus and the bridge highlights a sense of sinking deep down into the depths of the earth. Then, the riff returns for the rousing chorus that begs your heart and soul and very being to cry out, "LIFT ME Up!"

Worlds Apart
This may be one of the most uniquely moving songs in the history of contemporary Christian music. The exquisite guitar melodies coupled with the awesome humility found inside the lyrics puts this heart's lament at center stage. "Worlds Apart" is a touching prayer in which the individual places themselves on their knees at the foot of the Cross, taking all responsibility for their mistakes and their foolishness. They long to give themselves up completely and leave behind a painful past. The beauty in the music clearly expresses a desire to fully yield to Jesus Christ, having faith that His never-ending love will cover all traces of hurting and tears.

Blind
The orchestral "Blind" deals with the doubt and fear of a closed-minded skeptic who is hiding from the peace found in God's truth. This individual will ultimately fail because of his unbelief and his fear will harden his soul.

Four Seven
This much more elaborate version of "Four Seven" reiterates the verse in II Corinthians where Jars of Clay found its name. The band insists their talents and success comes only from the Lord and must be used to glorify Him instead of themselves.