I normally don't expect superiour quality when I turn my ear toward a new record label or a new band. Anthony Gravley surprised me with "Precious and Drowning". Not only did he record this album on his new label, but also in his new studio. What he created blew past my expectations.
Recorded at Addeybug Studio, with a similar set-up to Neverland, The Atonement created a vibey scene. With Steve Hindalong coproducing, playing percussion, and backing vocals, "Precious and Drowning" carries the Hindalong-groove. Other artists who helped in this fine product was Julie and Buddy Miller, playing and singing on "When I Fall". Anthony Gravley did most of the work though: leading & backing vocals, playing 6 & 12 string electric guitars, 6 & 12 string acoustic guitars, bass, percussion, keyboards, and drum programming. Keeping this from being a one-man show, Tim Keeler helped back vocals on two songs, Bradley Siedschlag played guitar on "What?", and Serry added her voice to "When I Fall".
With Hindalong's mystical grooves and Gravley's layered guitars, the atmosphere on "Precious and Drowning" compels the listener to ponder the God-centered lyrics. The Atonement reflects feelings that we often face, not posing as super-Christians like many artists do. As "Clouded Moon" shows: Here I am under a clouded sky, wanting to see your face. The clouds role by, still here am I, praying for clearer days. But here I am under a clouded moon. I find mercy inside Your eyes. When night brings fear, Lord draw me near, under the dark sky.
"Precious and Drowning" doesn't fit easily under one genre of music. Blending many influencial styles to create an obscure, yet unique style. "Precious and Drowning" displays a vibey layered mix of acoustic and elecric guitars. The Atonement captured a rare sound, giving themselves a beautiful platform to build from.
I can't deny the tears I've cried. I'm one part man, part terrified... I relate quite easily with the anxious thoughts that he reveals.
My heart is gripped when I hear Anthony Gravley, a former youth pastor, plead: Oh, I'm climbing up this high mountain, to catch a glimpse of You. Let me drink from the fountain. Plunge me deeper to the depths of You. -"When I Fall"