Switchfoot's Oh! Gravity keeps door open for questions.
Review by Russ Breimeier | posted 3/27/2007 08:37AM
The term switchfoot is used in surfing to describe the ability to shift your feet on the board to face either direction. It's similar to being ambidextrous and requires a heightened sense of balance.
I must disagree with Collin. While I certainly feel that the doctrine of common grace should enable us to see the handiwork of God in all things--overtly Christian or not--I do think that one of the biggest problems is that Evangelicals have is in aquiescing too the culture around us. I think we have done this so much that one can praise the "spirituality" of a Buddist (or anyone else) and that of a Christian and not see that there the most fundamental difference between the two. To contextualize the Gospel to a world that doesn't talk the "language of Zion" is one thing, but it is certainly another to try to succeed in removing the "offensive" nature from the Gospel. When we do that we fail to truly be disciples. Consider 1 Cor 1:23ff, "But we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God." Christian bands like Switchfoot certainly navigate a fine line which is not very easy!
Bill
Posted: March 27, 2007 1:11 PM
Please let's not cry out for Switchfoot to become a Christian cheerleader band who the world quickly dismisses. They are quality writers, musicians, and put on a fun show in which they aren't afraid to describe how some of their songs point to the Kingdom of God. I have had so many great conversations with kids from 8-18 about this new album and issues it raises. Let's enjoy some good Christians in a band instead of trying to make them a good Christian band.
Sarah
Posted: March 27, 2007 12:56 PM
Good write up on Swithfoot's newest album, althought I'd have to agree with Collin. I applaude Switchfoot for creating music that is honest, excellent, and points listeners to a greater purpose. I think these attributes are at the heart of what "Christian" represents. Excellence, not mediocre, in music. Honesty, not religion, in word. Purpose, not emptiness, in life. Creation, not chance, in existence. Through their songs, Switchfoot puts a seed of longing into every listener's heart...the longing to be known and have fellowship with God. Their lyrics aren't "blatantly Christian" but their message certainly is.
Collin
Posted: March 27, 2007 11:22 AM
I don't really listen to Switchfoot that much. I've heard all their popular songs and I think their music is pretty good. Your criticism seems to be that the album lacks overt spiritual references. I think that the goal of art is to express beauty and truth. The whole problem with your assumption (and the assumption inherent in the very idea of "Christian Music") is that music must have overt spiritual references to be good and to be Christian. My understanding from people who know Switchfoot is that the band strives to make music that is beautiful and true. Switchfoot does not limit the definition of art to music containing the best or most overt spiritual references. Artists who profess faith in Christ would do themselves and the world a greater service by focusing on the quality of their art rather than the artistic requirement that their music contain overt spiritual references. By excellence alone, men shall recognize good work and glorify their Father in Heaven.
jewellspring
Posted: March 27, 2007 10:31 AM
God forbid they started trying to provide all the answers. I don't want an album that gives ME opportunity to find "specific spiritual references", but one I can hand a loved one who knows good rock-n-roll without bashing women or swimming in the sewers for material. I would rather Switchfoot's commitment to their art continue to be based on excellent art. If they sell less at Family Christian Stores because Christians can't find enough spiritual references, good riddance.
Thom
Posted: March 27, 2007 10:28 AM
My daughter and I saw Switchfoot at the TLA in Philadelphia. Jon began the show by announcing that Tim had flown back home earlier that day for a family emergency. Jon was very reflective and interacted more with the audience than many other bands I've seen, Christian or Secular. The song selection that evening clearly communicated faith and dependence upon God to anyone who was tuly listening. My daughter and I left rejoicing and praying for Jon and his family - deeply moved by the experience. Thanks for calling attention to this group of quality musicians who express their faith thoughtfully and powerfully.
R. Maletz
Posted: March 27, 2007 10:17 AM
I have one of their albums. This one is outstandly good. I thank you for your service!
Chris
Posted: March 27, 2007 10:12 AM
Switchfoot has produced some of the most pure and poetic worship music... unlike most of the bubblegum uncreative boring same ole stuff being produced on all major chrisitan labels.
Keep up the good work Switchfoot- you guys are solid!
Joanie
Posted: March 27, 2007 10:06 AM
Switchfoot certainly has the ability to change allegiance at any given moment. Take for example their "work" with Pepsi Company and Beyonce in February of 2007. Switchfoot remixed the song "Crazy in Love” and preformed it in front of a screen where video of Beyonce unashamedly writhed around, cleavage dripping, on her hands and knees. With enormous sarcasm I say "Great show of Switch-footing, guys!" I'll stick to groups who hold fast to the SOLID GROUND of Christ and reject the undulating waves of the worldliness Switchfoot is attempting to appease. Be it for fame or money...will it be worth it in the end gentlemen?
Josh
Posted: March 27, 2007 10:05 AM
Nice article on the history of Switchfoot's presentation of their faith. However, I don't agree with the criticism of Oh, Gravity! I don't think faith always has to be explicit and overt. As you said, it's clearly there, just not overt. I think we, as Christians, too often need the explicitness to feel comfortable, when that's just not how God always works... Switchfoot is most definitely continuing the conversation. In fact, not saying the word "God" in their songs makes the conversation stronger because they're asserting that God exists even where God is not overtly present... THAT'S powerful evangelism...
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