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Is there a reason your songs—both solo and with Petra—tend towards boldly Christian lyricism, as opposed to subtle metaphors and poetry?

Schlitt Yes, because I totally disagree with that philosophy! I think Christian music was designed to bring the message of Christ and all this secular stuff can do whatever they want. [When a Christian artist] sugarcoats something, does it make you think or edify the spirit? Not really, so that's just a waste of time. Christian music should be a tool—an entertaining tool, but one that should always be about the Lord or about a topic that leads you in your Christian walk.

Do you feel like Petra fans would gravitate towards the music on The Grafting?

Schlitt I've been told there are tinges of Petra, tinges of my old band Head East, and also a new sound that Dan has purposefully gotten out of me. There are so many characters of my voice that haven't been used, and he was bound and determined to help bring those out. No one is going to argue that this doesn't sound like John Schlitt, but there's a lot of extra texture to my voice.

So many classic rock acts are reuniting and hitting the road this summer. When can we expect Petra's reunion tour?

Schlitt Bob sold his house and is living at the lake. He'll be fishing and playing tennis the rest of his life! If there's a reunion tour, I'd be on it—but I honestly don't ever think there ever will be.

Read up on Petra at our site's artist page. You can read our review of The Grafting by clicking here. Check out the album at Christianbook.com

© Andy Argyrakis, subject to licensing agreement with Christianity Today International. All rights reserved. Click for reprint information.

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