Can I tell you a little story? The nice people out at Reunion Records sent a couple of tapes for me to review, so this article is written on one of those albums -- "Through Blood and Fire" by the Sparks.
Think back to 1985. Do you remember a band named Bash-n-the-Code? Well, even if you don't, Greg and Rebecca Sparks were the lead singers, and Greg was the band's bass player. Since 1987, when Greg and Rebecca left Bash-N-The-Code, they have been singing backup vocals for Russ Taff. That's right! Russ Taff.
In the summer of 1988, I was in Tennessee for a Group Magazine workcamp (workcamps rule!), and the Sparks did a concert for the workcampers. I remember the concert clearly (Well, not that clearly. Actually I vaguely remember the concert, but what I can scrape up from my memory bank was a good time, loud music and a lot of energy.)
The Sparks (Mr. & Mrs.) are an example to Christians in their relationship with the Lord as well as an example of a healthy Christian marriage, as is seen through their albums. They share a deep love for each other that is truly beautiful -- one that we can all learn from.
Well, let's discuss the album. I would definitely classify this one as "Adult Contemporary Christian Music" - the first one of those I have ever reviewed!
"Through Blood and Fire" is an album packed with power in the aspect of music and the message behind it. The tape is filled with truth, prayers and a life theme dealing with everyday Christian life.
As a whole, the musical content of the album is a gritty guitar rock with some hard core blues and smooth soul. Fiery, aggressive, southern rock purrs out of the album. What makes it such a great album is its balance. The message is incredible, the music is raw, and the vocals are perfect.
The vocals are powerfully backed with the force of emotion and truth. Rebecca has the best voice I have heard from any female Christian artist. Her talent makes the album complete. Russ Taff also joins the Sparks and shares his voice for a few songs, bringing a golden touch to an already incredible album.
Certain songs stand out as award-winning material. First, there is "I Can't Dance (When You're Standing on my Feet)". It's a kickin' rock track that picks up hard and rolls into a white-flavored R&B song.
Another exceptional song is "You Can Count on Me". This one is an acoustic-to-the-core love ballad that soothes any savage beast (including my roommate).
"Through Blood and Fire" has been said to be the best Christian album released since Russ Taff's "The Way Home".
I still love alternative, industrial and mild punk sounds, and, as bad as it hurts to admit, I have to say this may be one of the best albums out.
