Daniel's Window are focused on evangelism. The lyrics remind me of the place in Hebrews 5 where it says "And a person who is living on milk isn't very far along in the Christian life" (NLT). The young Christian seems to be the audience that Daniel's Window is aiming at. Take for example the chorus from "I'm So Happy:"
I'm so happy
Can't you see
Just what he has done for me
I'm so happy
Can't be priced
Freedom's found in Jesus Christ
Or "Stay The Same:"
He was the same before the world was turning
He was the same when the bush was burning
He was the same when He died for you
And He'll be the same no matter what you do
The simplicity of the lyrics, however, does not translate into the music, which makes heavy use of programming and keyboards. There is also the addition of string instruments (cello, viola, violin), while Buck's John Gutierrez plays the trumpet. The result of using these instruments is a sound that at times leans towards techno, at others towards quirky chick-punk, and a few pop tunes. The whole album is radio-friendly, and I could easily see Daniel's Window moving up CCM charts. Combine this with a healthy dose of creativity, and you've got a mix that will most likely tantalize critics everywhere.
The only real complaint I have regarding the music is that Heather Hershey's vocals can come across as weak at times. On several songs the chorus fails to come across as powerful as it could have, due to rather thin vocals.
Daniel's Window demonstrate a level of innovativeness that is welcoming. It's a Mystery has some spectacular highlights--"When You Hear This Sound" makes good use of a male, tribalistic vocal, thrown onto the combination of throbbing bass and electronica-flavored drums to create a masterful piece of work. There's also "Round and Round," whose opening never ceases to amaze me with how much it sounds like Futurama's (television show) tune. Then there's the All Star-esque (think "Thank You, Goodnight" and "I Need You Now") string instruments on "Follow and Believe."
In the end, Daniel's Window provide an album full of satisfying music. It's a Mystery is a great debut, and I'll be keeping a good eye on what happens to these guys. I just hope that they'll become as progressive lyrically as they are musically.
3.5 tocks
