Maturity is often a word synonymous with old; it's usually presumed that one has to have a certain amount of mileage on their odometer before maturity is attained. But with Flying, Grammatrain--Pete Stewart, Dalton Roraback and Paul Roraback--put forth the argument that a band can achieve greatness, even as early as a second album. One does not usually describe the music of a Christian rock band as "ferocious," but that seems the most appropriate word to apply to Grammatrain. The potent trio, often lumped in with Pacific Northwest stalwarts such as Pearl Jam and Soundgarden, continue to display similar influences on Flying, while simultaneously drawing from a much broader musical spectrum, including The Doors, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Stryper(!) and R.E.M. The opening whisper of Pete Stewart's voice on "Jonah" is somewhat deceptive; but almost immediately, the band slams into the provocative chorus--I think I'm drowning and the ocean is raging/ My smile is frowning and my insides are praying. Pete's growl, Dalton's massive bass runs and Paul's insistent and inventive drum parts form a wall of sound that's impossible to ignore. "Less of Me" follows that same path and features an even thicker sludge of guitars by Stewart. The first indication that Grammatrain is surveying new musical territory comes on the title track. "Flying" finds Stewart exploring his love of the allegorical writing of C.S. Lewis, pairing his fractured tale with the sounds of Magical Mystery Tour-era Beatles. "Rocketship" also mines a similar lyrical vein, inviting us to take a look at our world from God's perspective. Stewart's pointed lyric suggests that perhaps our problems wouldn't seem so overwhelming from that vantage point. But the cut which stunned me from the very first listen is "Pain." In the context of Christian lyrics, the idea of pain is generally very abstract, a feeling that exists only to give the Lord something to take away. But Stewart, fully aware of his imperfect nature, sees pain as a path to God, not something blocking communion. Responding in the fashion of the Apostle Paul, Pete sings, I find, through every ounce of pain I feel/ That my mind cannot deny that God is real. Grammatrain's willingness to confront the hypocrisy of the church (and itself) and still experience compassion, forgiveness and grace makes Flying a truly exceptional release.
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Tony LaFianzaSomething old, something new, something rock and roll and blue; or something like that, right? Grammatrain rocks with a new sonic feel and an old familiarity. This hard working band could be the poster boys for the new grunge sound. They're a big sounding three-piece group with a mind toward ministry. The songs are well crafted and recorded effectively. This record is right up the alley of fans…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Shari LloydWe have all heard the comments about sophomore releases. Flying by Grammatrain is a pleasant exception. This three-piece modern rock band from Seattle has really put together a tight album. There is a lot of aggressive guitar work with strong vocals. The lyrics are thoughtful and use a lot of imagery. Only, why is everyone using this bottle rocket imagery? First there was Guardian, then Dime…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Josh SpencerToo bad reincarnation isn't a Christian doctrine, because if it was I'd say we have the rebirth of Soundgarden here! Actually, this time around the similarity is only strong on a couple songs (the first track could fool any Chris Cornell fan easily). Despite their lack of originality, they've got my vote for the best Christian grunge band ever. They've got passion and a totally authentic sound…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Mark J. AylorHow do I rate this one? Very strong music. Good lyrics. Great production. Overall, this is a quality second release. Grammatrain beats out both Skillet and Common Children as my favorite Seattle-sounding band, but I can't figure out why! They have definitely grown up as a band. The sound is more mature, the musicianship better. Otherwise, it sounds like Lonely House. . . only more so (well, THAT…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by James StewartGrammatrain hail from Seattle, and listening to this album that comes as no surprise. Their sound is certainly grunge - and this is possibly the best example of that genre that I've heard on a major CCM label. The instrumentalists are all strong, and the sound is tight. There is a fair bit of variation in the songs, although they stick with a familiar structure. The songwriting is good, mixing a…Similar sounding releases
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