I thought I’d update you on another Cool Thing in the World of Liz. And today’s cool thing is… Jars of Clay, Good Monsters
Though not new, this is the latests release from Jars of Clay, one of my all-time favorite bands. I don’t think these guys have every fully garnered the respect they deserve as muscians or as a band. Jars of Clay is the only Christian band that I have ever really liked. That isn’t meant as a slam against Christian music; I realize there are many talented bands and some excellent music in the Christian genre. For me personally, however, no other Christian artist or band has done it for me like these guys.
If anyone reading this is a fan, I’d like to know what you like most about Jars. People seem mostly to prefer Jars’ self-titled debut album and songs like “Flood,” to their later work. From what I can gather, folks especially tend to shy away from more “experimental” albums like If I Left the Zoo. I am a little puzzled as to why–I think some really great work came out of both If I Left the Zoo. As to their progression as musicians, I think the band members have seen a lot of development (especially in the area of vocal talent, with guys besides front man Haseltine contributing more frequently and with more complex harmonies. Haseltine’s voice has also mellowed and matured a great deal, while still maintaining a melancholy quality that breaks through at times.)
What I appreciate most about Good Monsters is the seamless mix of raw honesty and reverence. Your ears will probably perk up on the first track, “Work,” at the line “I have no fear of drowing/ It’s the breathing that’s taking all this work.” (Kind of eerie music vid, too, but cool. Check it out here.) At the same time, the strong, steady build up and conclusion of “Oh My God” is moving, humbling, even sobering. At times I’ve thought it almost touches on fearful, but not in a desperate sense.)I’ve been fortunate enough to see Jars of Clay twice in concert, and “Oh My God” is definitely one of the moments you remember from the show.
Whether you’re an old school Jars fan or you picked them up during the mainstream push with The Eleventh Hour release, I think you’ll find Good Monsters a nice compromise. It’s a good blend between true-to-their-roots songs with strong, sing-along choruses and Jars’ more complex, evolved side, complete trademark introspective lyrics and some new, interesting grooves. I have all the Jars CD’s (yes, even the White Elephant Sessions), so for what my recommendation is worth…PICK UP THIS DISC. It’s my favorite Jars album yet.
Side Note: I did read your suggestions for topics, and I want you to know that I will follow through! I have decided to save those posts for when I can think a little more clearly (this is a 3-day weekend. Thinking it not a high priority..) 
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