capsule reviews of miscellaneous titles by
THE INNOCENCE MISSION

The Innocence Mission
Umbrella    (1991)

Comments: They're an oasis in a sea of despair, a quiet place for meditation, prayer, and delight.  The Inncoence Mission are one of those bands that I hope never get "discovered".  They're best savored privately, their songs the sort that should be played in a country chapel, quietly, for restoration of the spirit.  This is my favorite, but all of their albums are worthwhile.

Outstanding tracks:  "Every Hour Here", "Umbrella", "Revolving Man"

Jeffrey's Sum-Up: Excellent

The Innocence Mission
Glow   (1995)

Comments: While it doesn't have as many songs that stick in your head as its predecessor "Umbrella", "Glow" sounds like "Umbrella Part Two".  The same "glowing" sound, the same knack for harmony and hauntingly beautiful melodies that remind you of Simon and Garfunkel.  This album focusses on memories of growing up, and on relationships that remain even though family have moved off in different directions.  The Innocence Mission do indeed have a sunny sound, but it's joy in the midst of hard times, not merelysuperficial happiness, at the heart of these stories. 

Outstanding tracks:  "Bright as Yellow", "That Was Another Country", "Everything's Different Now"

Jeffrey's Sum-Up: Excellent

The Innocence Mission
Birds of My Neighborhood    (1999)

Comments:  It was rather startling, to hear this "dark" album from the Innocence Mission for the first time.   Written during a time of struggle and desperate prayers, this is a collection of initmate moments.  A cover of John Denver's "Follow Me" is offered in tribute to the recently deceased legend, and it's hard to imagine a more heartbreaking rendition of the song.  "I Have Not Seen This Day Before" is a fragile, beautiful expression of faith in spite of hardship, and "The Lakes of Canada" is a strong picture of the singer venturing out against all odds to row across the famous lakes of ice.  Somehow, even when they're suffering and struggling with doubt, the Innocence Mission are still a source of comfort and encouragement.

Outstanding tracks:  "July", "The Lakes of Canada", "Follow Me"

Jeffrey's Sum-Up: A Masterpiece