Jars of Clay

1	Liquid 3:31
2	Sinking 3:47
3	Love Song for a Savior 4:46
4	Like a Child 4:35
5	Art in Me 3:58
6	He 5:19
7	Boy on a String 3:31
8	Flood 3:31
9	Worlds Apart 5:18
10	Blind 27:16

Barnes & Noble

Honest, intense, poetic, and harmonic, Jars of Clay took the Christian music world by storm with this 1995 debut and never looked back. With sonic influences as diverse as Gregorian chants, mandolin, and gothic layered vocals, JARS OF CLAY was a refreshing break from the pessimism and alterna-angst that dominated the mid-'90s music scene. Even more amazing is how well the music stands up over time. "Liquid" and "Flood," with their soaring strings and rich harmonies, are as much a revelation today as they were on first hearing. Fans have credited Jars with reinventing the acoustic guitar, and while that may be a bit of a stretch, the symphonic blend of six-string, cello, violin, and oboe in a rock song is certainly cutting-edge. Lyrically, Jars tackle such heavy subjects as child abuse and spiritual apathy, always steering clear of Christian lingo -- were it not for the title of "Love Song for a Savior," one would think it addresses an earthly lover. Their lyrical tightrope brought the band a crossover audience, but the Jars of Clay legacy runs deeper than multi-platinum sales: Dozens of post-Jars bands subsequently lightened up on the Christianese, paving the way for artists such as Third Day and Jennifer Knapp. Lisa Zhito

All Music Guide

Jars of Clay manage to put a bit of spirit into their rock & roll. But the spirit isn't one of deceased loved ones or demons, but of religious enlightenment. This album revolves around the band's Christian beliefs, but never comes off as preachy or judgmental. It includes the hit "Flood" and also covers such topics as child abuse and the manipulation of modern man. Produced with the help of Adrian Belew, this album shines. James Chrispell