If you are thinking about buying the newest CD released by Sara Groves, Add To the Beauty you are probably doing so because you have come to enjoy her easy going melodic pop tunes. You won't be disappointed as this album offers more of the same injected with Groves' fearless transparent and vulnerable lyrics.
There is one tune on the disc however that breaks the typical Sara mold and has become my favorite. The jagged cadence of "How Can I Tell" grabs you by the ears and blesses your woofers with some funky irregular beats and special effects. The song poses the question how can I make this story of Christ attractive enough to you that you will want what I have. Well certainly if they are listening to this song it is a good start. In a recent interview Groves referred to the song as guitar driven but written on a piano. Matt Pierson who seems to be just about everyone's favorite studio bassist and Jerry McPherson on electric guitar lay down some cool licks. Backed by the vocals of Nirva Dorsaint, Michael Mellet and Travis Cottrell it sounds as though Groves had a lot of fun recording this track. Have you got any more like these in that creative treasure chest Sara?
Add To the Beauty marks Groves' first outing with producer Brown Bannister. The producer honored Groves' penchant for using instruments not commonly associated with a pop CD. Bill Woodworth's English horn on "When It Was Over," John Catchings' cello ("You Are The Sun") and a fiddle on "Kingdom Comes" (Stuart Duncan) contribute to produce beautiful hues.
Over the years Groves has fought off the temptation to succumb to trends in the industry and has instead written from her heart. In recent years we have witnessed the trend by artists not normally associated with writing worship music to produce CDs in that genre. It has almost become a fad. Instead singer / songwriter Groves has continued with the lyrical direction she took on her last album, The Other Side of Something and speaks to everyday issues. Her song "Loving A Person" provides a good example of that approach to her music. This track simply addresses how we get around our own personal biases and learn to love those who quite simply have difficult personalities.
"Just Showed Up For My Own Life" is a comment on abandoning a milquetoast attitude about life and deciding to 'get in the game'. Sonically this song took me back to another place and time and I heard hints of The Bangles' "Manic Monday". As the tune draws to a close the person described in the song decides to embrace life and enjoy all that it offers.
As you would expect from a pianist most of the songs on this album are piano driven but complemented by a cast of superb instrumentalists.
Despite the good missives and great vocals that Sara Groves brings to this album the highlight for me remains "How Can I Tell". Yes I am lobbying for more of this type of music from you, Sara, how can you tell?
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2005Reviewed by Brian A. SmithSara Groves has made a habit of taking inspiration from those in her immediate circle. Add to the Beauty draws on the experiences of her grandparents, who habitually visit prisoners, a friend who has contributed greatly to the rebirth of the Rwandan economy, and a couple who repaired their marriage after all was thought lost. This circle of spiritual friends and family have helped to spur on Add…Similar sounding releases
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