Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Into the Mystery, March 12, 2003
"Into The Mystery" feels like David's most hope-full CD to date.
And of course, as with all of his CD's, the songs are beautifully crafted and performed, arrangements and harmonies are
perfect, and his guitar work remains constantly jaw dropping.A few favorites of mine were; "In This Stream" a classic Wilcox tune with absolutely haunting harmonies, "Radio Men", just a cool laid-back-funk of a tune...coming from only a place that Wilcox or an amazed child knows, "Apple a Day", is as catchy as a big smile with a great message besides. And of course the song "Into the Mystery" has some of the coolest production you've ever heard, wrapped around another great Wilcox composition. Overall, this CD seems to be less about the frailties and beauty of love and relationship angst (as in much of David's previous work), and more an affirmation of life itself. Interestingly, the word "God" quietly slips in and out of several of these tunes, but does so with such ease that the songs never take on a "preachy" feel. I've heard it said that the only time we ever learn anything is by embracing the unknown..That whenever you have two choices, to always go for the mystery, because that's the place where you will learn the most about life and your place in it. If you give these songs a chance, to move into the mystery David is offering, you may just come away remembering a bit more about yourself, the nature of love and why we're all here.
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
An Excellent Work, December 9, 2003
To start off, let me say that the musical craftsmanship on this album is outstanding. In my opinion, Dave has reached back and rediscovered the intricate, strong style he displayed on his first two albums. Backed by excellent musicians (including an almost unmentioned Phil Keaggy on bass) and fine production values, Wilcox's melodies jump out and take hold of the listener.Lyrically, the album is probably the most spiritual of Dave's work. Many of the songs make allusions or outright references to Dave's continuing journey of faith including the title track, "If It Wasn't for the Night" and "Native Tongue". There are, however, other ideas explored, including the beauty of a child's view of the world on "Radio Man". I recommend this album without reservation. It is an excellent alternative to much of what passes for music as offered by the mainstream music industry.
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Stunning Collection of Joyful and Inspiring Songs, February 27, 2003
David Wilcox's "Into the Mystery" is a stunning collection of joyful and inspiring songs. It equals his most acclaimed earlier work ("How Did You Find Me Here" and "Big Horizon"), and is his most mature work to date. This album is destined to be revered by his existing base of fans and to win him new admirers. Lyrically, the songs are full of rich, deep, metaphors that share a common thread of overcoming adversity and uncertainty, and assurance in the mystery of life. Some of the lyrics are directly inspired by the aftermath of the 9-11 terror attacks. "City of Dreams" uses the imagery of New York City rebuilding from destruction as a metaphor for America. More subtly, In "Rise," a beleaguered loved one is implored to wake from a burdened sleep and move forward. "Blue Horizon," in my opinion the standout song of this collection, absolutely soars. Ric Hordinski's deft production touches are just right for these songs, resulting in a sound that is accessible yet sparse, and also includes subtle touches that give some songs an ethereal alt-rock feel. However, like his best work, David Wilcox's virtuoso open-tuned acoustic guitar work, smooth voice, and multi-layered lyrics are clearly the musical engine that drives this album. In sum, "Into the Mystery" is a triumph, and deserves to be heard.
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