There's no confusion here. This five-member Minneapolis-based band has made the purpose and message of their self-titled debut album, Clear, pretty obvious--if not through their band title, then through their poetic message. The sincere, honest lyrics, coupled with their solid acoustic rock sound, make for a sonance that clearly exhibits Clear's objective to share the love of Christ through song. The upbeat "My Blindness" tells the familiar story of the blind man who was healed by Jesus (Mark 8:22-26). Accompanied by a boppin' chord progression accented by organ syncopations, the song's uplifting chorus, Jesus healed my blindness/ Lifted up the veil and His light poured on my face/ Jesus healed my blindness/ With His love I am alive in His grace, relates the blind man's need to be healed from his blindness to our human need to be healed from sin. Showcasing the group's versatility is the worshipful "Chasing After the Wind" by guitarist/vocalist/chief lyricist Matt Berry. Consisting of nothing more than the heartfelt vocals of lead singer Alison Ogren and a subtle piano accompaniment, the song expresses the true joy and fulfillment that can be found through the blood of Jesus. The chorus, What could I acquire to make my heart delight in what it finds/ Nothing I desire can bring me joy like You, demonstrates the band's transparency and vulnerability to the Lord's will. As Clear is vulnerable to God, they are flexible to different musical styles. Throughout the album, Ogren's alterna-folk vocals adjust to changes in accompaniment, whether it's an electric guitar/full trap set or a solo acoustic guitar. A good choice for anyone looking for melodic rock with a sincere message.
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by James StewartMelodic female-fronted pop-alternative, with vocals reminiscent of Sarah Masen in a more forthright mood, Clear have garnered a fair bit of attention so far. The first track sounds like a single destined for a lot of play on Christian radio, with a very straightforward set of lyrics about the need to live for God more boldly, and a breezy feel to the music. The album continues in a similar vein…
