Music Reviews
Jars of Clay

Jars of Clay

Inland

Grey Matters

After 20 years together, Inland marks Jars of Clay’s eleventh studio record, and it’s one of the band’s best yet.

Recent albums have seen forays into a more electronic sound, and right from the opening bars of opener and first single “After the Fight,” the band’s relentless creativity continues. The throbbing bass line of the verse leads majestically into a glorious soaring melody melding the old and new Jars of Clay sound perfectly.

From there, the diversity continues on the melodic, fiddle-laden “Reckless Forgiver” and the vibrant “Loneliness and Alcohol.” “Love in Hard Times” offers an ambient moment of reflection, while the title track is a lush symphony of cinematic quality.

But the album’s highlights are the atmospheric “I Don’t Want You to Forget” and the brilliant “Skin and Bones” – possibly one of the best songs the band has ever recorded.

They may have three Grammys to their name, but on Inland, Jars of Clay prove that their future is just as vital as their past achievements.

Jars of Clay: http://jarsofclay.com


Recently on Ink 19...

Swans

Swans

Event Reviews

40 years on, Michael Gira and Swans continue to bring a ritualistic experience that needs to be heard in order to be believed. Featured photo by Reese Cann.

Eclipse 2024

Eclipse 2024

Features

The biggest astronomical event of the decade coincides with a long overdue trip to Austin, Texas.

Sun Ra

Sun Ra

Music Reviews

At the Showcase: Live in Chicago 1976/1977 (Jazz Detective). Review by Bob Pomeroy.