The times, they are a changin'. One of the founding members of Jacob's Trouble, guitarist Mark Blackburn, has departed, and with him has gone the "jangly" guitar sound that the band had become known for. While previous albums have been rooted in a Sixties' sensibility, with obvious musical references to the Byrds, the Monkees, and the Beatles, the new self-titled Jacob's Trouble album moves things into the next decade and beyond.
From the opening lyric, "Is everybody here ready for a little adventure?" the band promises something new and exciting. In a bit of self-reference, they make it clear that they aren't satisfied to remain in a comfort zone-and they deliver. The group has grown, both musically and lyrically, and it shows.
"Wild, Wild Ride" and "Lovehouse," two rocking tunes, open the album, with Jerry Davison's vocals stronger than ever. The next tune "Desiree," pays homage to the distorted guitar sound of U2's Achtung Baby. With guitarist Keith Johnston ably handling the lead vocals, the song signals that the group has really gone in a new direction.
"This Moment" probably could have been on one of the other albums-it is just about the only song that sounds like the old group. "It's A Boys', Boys', Boys', Boys' World" and "Time Bomb" show Davison's growth as a lyricist, and his continuing bent for social commentary. Johnston's songs are more poetic, with a penchant for imagery. "Best Part of Me" is both a song of praise and thanks to his Father, while "Better Days" speaks of struggle and a promise of something better someday.
Even drummer Ron Cochran gets to take a turn at lead vocal with "Tears of An Angel," a song for which he penned the lyrics. It also showcases bassist Steve Atwell's skills in a melody with a slight Motown feel.
"Lovin' Kindness" is a fun tune with a rhythm track reminiscent of Escape Club's "Wild, Wild West" single of a few years ago. The next track, however, is the most powerful one on the album. "Way of the Cross" pulls no punches. Davison's lyrics lay out clearly and bluntly what Christ did while he was here, and why. With lines like "He gave the keys of the kingdom to the meek and the mild/He told the self-righteous grown-ups to act like a child" and "He had a bad reputation and a scandalous streak/passed over doctors and lawyers/to hang with beggars and thieves/it was no accident/it was the way of the cross," he serves notice to those that treat church and faith as some kind of social club that they need to re-evaluate their motives.
The album ends with a love song, "Let Me Love On You," that will no doubt cause some controversy, just because it exists. While it is not the strongest song on the record, it is another example of the group's growing versatility.
All in all, a great record, and one that should further this group's popularity.
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