Customer Reviews

Closer EP

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I can't get enough of "Closer" and I love the sound and vibe of the song. The direction somewhat reminds me of the electronic style Jars used on "Much Afraid" with the songs "Fade To Grey" and "Truce". "Safe To Land" has been speaking to me (like most Jars songs do), and since "Love Song for a Savior" is one of my all-time favorites, both the original and acoustic mix from "Furthermore" are already great and the new version ranks 3rd but is still good. "Flood" didn't need a new mix and it misses the energy and intensity of the original. "Prisoner of Hope" is also good and reminds me of songs on "Good Monsters" like "Light Gives Heat" and "Water Under The Bridge", which I really like. 4 out of 5 stars.

As far as Christian Music is concerned, there is Jars of Clay, and then there is everybody else. The first two cuts on this EP demonstrate just how good of songwriters these guys are. It doesnt sound like anything else they have done, but it still sounds like them. Instantly addictive and completely moving.

With this mini-release, Jars shows us more of them same, but hints of great things to come, too! Having previously released an album of acoustic remakes of their own material (furthermore: from the studio), this EP features a couple of remakes that go beyond simply stripping them down. Love Song for a Savior (also on furthermore), sounds fresh, light and upbeat, giving it a new energy. Flood, on the other hand, is now a rock song. This will undoubtedly garner mixed reviews from people, as it is their most famous song. But I like it.

As for the new songs, "Closer" has a great 80s pop feel to it. "Safe to Land" is somewhat melancholy but has amazing lyrics. "Prisoners of Hope" is a great end to the EP, somewhat reminiscent of "Light Gives Heat" but definitely with its own unique sound.

Overall, this is a worthwhile purchase, and will leave you wanting more. But that will have to wait until early '09 when they release a full-length project. Jars is one of my favourite groups, and this release adds to my love for them! Get it! You won't regret it!