Reviews, Interviews, News, Commentaries, Glimpses of God, Best-Of ListsThe Vespers: The Fourth Wall
Style: Gospel Americana; compare to The Farewell Drifters, Cadillac Sky, Mumford & Sons
Top tracks: "Better Now," "Got No Friends," "Winter"
Despite the overwhelming influx of acoustic acts in popular music, The Vespers have made a noticeable impression on the Americana-folk circuit thanks to a charming 2010 debut and engaging live shows. On this sophomore set, the singer-songwriter siblings (the boys are brothers, the ladies are sisters) further establish their hold on folk. Understated production showcases the band's musical magnetism—a combine of youthful fervor, acoustic aptitude, and cultured songwriting. Relatable lyricism unashamedly declares devout Christian allegiance without forfeiting their hip musical stance—a rare, and refreshing, find in current music.
Copyright © 2012 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.
Star Trek Into Darkness
(on articles open to the public, you must at least register for a free account).
RSS
Twitter
Facebook
Newsletters
Google
Comments
Adam Richards
I agree that the review here is weak (if you want a detailed review check out the Huffington Post) but don't let it influence your view of The Vespers. While the band has strong folk roots, the diversity of their instrumental talents allows them to add elements from a range of musical genres. Their mood can be contemplative, but they are equally compelling when exuberantly joyful! The harmonies of the sisters are captivating, whether viscerally soaring or hauntingly whispered. The arrangements have an edge, but stop short of sounding rebellious. There is an emotional transparency and passion that I haven't heard since Mike Scott's (The Waterboys) solo work. The album has the energy of a live show, and captures the group's unaffected and genuine personalities. I had the opportunity to see them live last year, and they quickly became the favorite band for me and my two daughters! All in all a tremendous album--if you listen, you won't be disappointed.
Mark Easteadt
Rick, check them out on youtube. There the real deal. Moving, melancholy in the best way and straightforwardly (and charmingly) positive.
rick b
Thats it? So did the record label pay for this "real estate" to get a buzz going? Why only two paragraphs? And I love it when the sound is compared to a secular band that is probally better than them, except they sing about Jesus (i'm sure there very very good, i'm just being sarcastic). Rock on!