A remedy
for the times
GO
Artist: John Schlitt
Label: 4K Records
Length: 11 songs/44
minutes
Keep moving. Bob
Dylan said it was a key to health. On GO, the latest solo
release by John Schlitt, he sings along the same lines:
Go
No time to stop
Just take your shot
Keep movin’ on
Everyone has
something to give. Even in a time of isolation, we can move forward
by praying, reading, writing, giving, etc. One thing I learned in
retail, there is always something to do.
It’s a pleasure to
hear an album that is so straightforward both musically and
lyrically. Encouragement abounds, which should come as no surprise to
those who have followed Schlitt’s career. He aims to help
Christians experience all that God has for them. The sound is similar
to his former bands, Head East and Petra.
You might never know
that Schlitt has been singing for more than four decades. His voice
is strong, and he uses it in the best possible ways.
“Where is the
truth,” he sings on “Fake News.” Heavy music gives a feeling of
doom and gloom. He decries, “Phony experts … holding us hostage
to the fake news.” He points to something more trustworthy: “our
faith, a sacred treasure/a strength we must defend.” It echoes the
exhortation found in Scripture, “Guard the treasure entrusted to
you, with the help of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us” (2 Timothy
1:14 Berean Study Bible).
On the bright side
is “Find a Way,” my personal favorite. Strong acoustic strumming.
A solid hand-clap following the kick of a bass drum. Allusions to a
shared journey to heaven, “All aboard will ride together/And we
will make our great escape/Like a dream of love in Camelot/I’ll
remember you this way.” Soaring harmonies on the chorus are
euphoric.
The supporting cast
on this release provides a fresh take on a classic rock sound. This
is predominantly guitar-driven with some interesting variations.
“Go” has a world
music influence, similar to some of Robert Plant’s solo work. “Feel
It” is fast-paced rock n’ roll. “Where Would I Be” is Motown
inspired complete with gospel singers and horns. “Fighting the
Fight” is power pop with vulnerability.
This
is a mature work from a
seasoned artist.
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