Aug
17
The Call-Revisited
Filed Under Music, Uncategorized
Yes, we’ll even talk about rock music from time to time…Through the wonder of internet music technology, I have been reacquainting myself with one of the best, though least-remembered, bands of the 1980’s–The Call. They came on the scene in northern California in the early ’80s with a sound and ethos influenced by U2 and Simple Minds–emotion-laden lyrics, post-punk/anti-war angst, and an out-front spirituality shaped by Christian themes. Lead vocalist and bass player Michael Been describes himself as a Christian, although he is quick to add that he does not subscribe to the way he sees Christianity being practiced by many of its adherents–and, sadly, he has a point there. Few singers convey as much emotion and sincerity in their craft as Been does.
Their best work was their 1986 release Reconciled. However, the 1997 (and re-released in 2005) ’The Best of the Call’ compilation is a must-listen. The single ‘Let the Day Begin’ may strike a chord of remembrance in you political junkies out there. In 2000 the Al Gore presidential campaign used it as the anthem for various rallies. Interestingly, The Call was not asked for permission to use the song, but, like most musicians, they didn’t mind the free publicity.
Click on the cover art images below to go the Amazon site featuring samples.
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And speaking of rock music…while some in that field claim Christ, others most certainly do not; and it shows.
My heart breaks for some of music’s best whose art I have appreciated for years now: guys like Jackson Browne, James Taylor and, more recently Glenn Phillips (formerly lead singer of the band Toad the Wet Sprocket). What they have in common, and I think particularly Jackson Browne and maybe Glenn Phillips, is the sensitivity and heart with which they write. These guys are VERY thoughtful men whose lyrics betray their unhappiness and even hopelessness.
And sometimes they even get nasty. Recently, Sarah Emily and I heard Glenn Phillips live in Nashville and at one point in the show, he (and some in the audience) openly mocked Christians for their stance on so-called homosexual “marriage.” And yet, one cannot help thinking, “What a waste. Here are sensitive, thinking men who are outstanding poets. How these gifts could be used for the kingdom of God!”
So what do we do with this? I recommend putting them our prayer lists and pouring out our hearts to God on their behalf. Pray for mercy, for hearts warmed by the Holy Spirit, and for authentic believers to be in strategic places in their lives.
Well, that’s what I’m doing anyway: Jackson Browne and Glenn Phillips particularly have been laid on my heart.
Maybe somebody else can pick up “String Bean.”