When I am asked what I like to hear in a band (which I rarely am), I usually drivel on and on about a number of things, one of which is how important a successful second album is to the continuing success of a band. Producing material consistent with or surpassing the quality of a debut album is almost always difficult. It often takes bands two, sometimes even three or four years to finally finish that second album. However, beaming with a little hometown pride, I bring to you Follow the Narrow from Clear. Following the success of their debut self-titled album would be difficult for anyone, but Clear pulls it off.
For those of you who don't know what Clear's sound is, here's a brief--but all too restrictive--synopsis: Folk, with a little rock mixed in, topped off with a dash of bluegrass for good measure. This quintet, all of whom attended Bethel College at one time or another, captures the listener with the dual harmonies of Alison Ogren and Matt Berry, and strong guitar work. However, they weren't content with the same sound as the last album, and that's evident from the first cut and title track. They begin by surprising the listener with an eruption of sound capped with the mandolin, something that's too often left out of the picture these days, but a valuable instrument nonetheless. They have ventured out beyond two guitars, bass, and drums in search of something better. Every so often, they find it. Throughout the album, there are little treats left for the casual listener to ignore, but a delight to anyone who enjoys really good folk music.
Although their talent as musicians is once again apparent on this album, what stands out to me is the basis for their songs. Ogren notes that "all of the songs are directly connected to the Scriptures." What better direction for a band to point themselves but to the Holy Word. The haunting melody and intensely powerful lyrics of 'Stand and Die' combine to create a song that is nothing short of spectacular. 'Falling Down' is another song that sticks in your head for a long time. There are some songs that are not quite as remarkable as these two, but overall, Follow the Narrow is an important step for these guys. This is definitely worth the listen.
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by James StewartAfter an unsatisfying indie-pop influenced debut, Clear has moved in an acoustic direction. The mixture of acoustic instrumentation and familiar bright-production on Follow the Narrow seems to fit the band much better and result in a much stronger follow-up. Alison Ogren's vocals (which still bear a remarkable resemblance to those of Sarah Masen) are very much the focus here and mesh nicely with…Similar sounding releases
2000Jennifer KnappLay It Down
2005Brandi CarlileBrandi Carlile
2004Jennifer DanielsSummer Filled Sky
2001LaRueTransparent
2004Jason HarwellAlive in the Fall
2002Scott RigganAll I Know
