Jars of Clay, Good Monsters

Multi Grammy award nominated and winning, US band Jars of Clay have been around since the early 90's. Their 8th full length album 'Good Monsters' is the latest in a line of highly regarded albums. In the UK Jars of Clay is less well known, but some people might know them from their appearance on the 'Narnia, the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' inspired collective.

'Good Monsters' features beautifully crafted songs accompanied by beautiful, poetic lyrics. The track 'Oh my God' is perfect example of the journeys these songs take you on. By their own admission 'Good Monsters' is the band's first rock album, but like on their previous albums Jars of Clay is very creative in their approach to this genre.

Some of the songs might be regarded as too over spiritual by some, but in no way does the CD preach. Rather it confronts the listener with life, death, injustice, pain and joy and in the midst of these common experiences of humanity attempts to define Hope and look beyond the ordinary.

From a song like 'Work', which is very upbeat and energetic to the deeply moving 'Light gives heat' about Westerners performing aid in Africa, this album is treat of different styles, ideas and emotions. Dan Hasseltine's voice is beautifully sensitive at times whilst other songs show a more resolute and strong sound. Not to be missed is the duet with former Sixpence None the Richer singer Leigh Nash. In addition to her appearance an African Children's choir also features on this disc.

The UK market is in my opinion too commercialised at times and misses some of the great bands that are household names in the US. In my opinion this album is better than most of the stuff Snow Patrol or the Kaiser Chiefs produce, it is more varied in every aspect for definite!