A Reason to Celebrate

After an apparent five year hiatus, Ten Shekel Shirt has released their third collection of modern pop/rock- Jubilee; an apt title perfectly describing the disc’s over-arching theme. As established by God, Jubilee was the Jewish celebration of institutional forgiveness to be observed every fifty years. When (and if) it occurred, the celebration was meant to remedy social inequality by freeing people (and land), effectively eliminating economic and social servitude. TSS’s founder and front-man, Lamont Hiebert passionately embraces the concept and has dedicated himself to the cause of modern-day abolition with a fervor that shines through the songs of Jubilee (the album). The lyrics of Jubilee abound with grace, forgiveness and redemption. Each song affirms Divine Providence, while unflinchingly looking at depravation and challenging the listener to rise above the world’s foibles. A sense of world-weariness underlies Hiebert’s delivery on many of the songs, but instead of bringing down the emotional tone, it serves as an intelligent counter-balance; appropriate, considering the challenging subject matter addressed in many of the songs. Ten Shekel Shirt’s music is stylistically akin to their previous projects (Much & Risk), yet avoids sounding dated. The band’s ability to create music that moves between sparse simplicity and fully textured, layered compositions is striking. Musically, TSS shares sonic DNA with bands like Arcade Fire, Coldplay, Death Cab for Cutie, The Fray, etc.; where a delicate balance is struck between the music, lyrics and vocal delivery, allowing each element to reinforce and subtly compliment the overall composition. From start to finish, the songs of Jubilee are affirmations of exoneration, celebrations of emancipation, and reminders of God’s incomparable mercy. If you appreciate subtle music intertwined with forthright lyrics (Caedmon’s Call, Downhere, Jars of Clay, Leeland, and Starfield), check out Ten Shekel Shirt’s latest. Take a moment to visit the band’s website, and investigate how you can become involved in TSS’s mission of freedom and hope.