Posted: October 25, 2018 | By: NRTeamAdmin NRT Editorial RSS Feed

Since the 1970s, artists like Larry Norman, the Resurrection Band, Petra, and Phil Keaggy made it their mission to see varied versions of rock and roll accepted within the walls of the church. In the 1990s, their blood, sweat, and tears paid off, and Christian alternative rock exploded. Musicians and groups were forming across the world, writing Christ-centered tunes of all sounds and styles. swiss clone watches

At the forefront of this boom stood four young men who called themselves Jars of Clay, and in October of 1995, they made their mark in Christian music history with the release of their self-titled debut. Though many artists released phenomenal music that same year, including a smash-hit titled Jesus Freak by a trio named DC Talk, Jars of Clay brought something to the table that pushed the boundaries of Christian alternative, blending poetic folk lyrics, acoustic instrumentation, and rock and roll melodies. 
 

Wanting to grab the attention of listeners, Jars of Clay starts their album off with the fierce track "Liquid." This song gives their audience a chance to hear the power of singer Dan Haseltine's voice, the harmonies capable to back him, and their ability to use acoustic instruments to invent a strong rock sound. They slide into the steady "Sinking" before approaching the folk rock influenced "Love Song For a Savior." This track is considered one of the best on the album due to the stunning lyrics speaking on those that believe they are living a life for God by their actions alone, and not being completely immersed in His love and salvation.

The upbeat "Like A Child" sprinkles a Celtic vibe into the mix, using violins and flutes as accompaniment over the top of their usual instrument choices. "Art In Me" and "He" are middle of the road folk rock tracks, giving listeners a chance to relax before coming to the climax of the album. The Pinocchio inspired "Boy On a String" brings the violin back to center stage as Haseltine speaks from God's point of view as He watches His child cater to worldly behaviors like a marionette.

Finally, the album reaches its highest peak with considerably the most popular song of Jars of Clay's career. "Flood," like album opener "Liquid," eloquently blends acoustic instrumentation, a strong rock and roll melody, and Haseltine's commanding vocal range. This song not only dominated Christian music charts but was also a large success on mainstream ones as well; it even landed them a music video on MTV.
 

"Worlds Apart" is one their most compelling songs lyrically, touching on the sacrifice of Christ, the condition of the world, and the difficulties of following God in such times. "Blind" is the soft and slightly creepy last track, creating a sonic atmosphere of meditation for the listener at the end of the album. 

While Jars of Clay has since filled their catalog with several other strong, well-received albums, none have transcended genres and culture the way their debut did. It is without a doubt one of the greatest albums to be birthed from the 90s rock surge, and just like Petra's More Power to Ya or Larry Norman's Only Visiting this Planet, will continue to be remembered as a monumental and groundbreaking Christian music milestone.

 

Jessi Zilka owns a small record store in Florida. She loves music more than anything in this world (except Jesus, of course). If she's not listening to music or working at her store, she's usually out record hunting, going to Disney World, spending time with her husband, hanging out with family or friends, catching up on a favorite TV show, or curling up on the couch and watching a movie.