FOREMAN SHINES BRIGHTLY ON NEW SEASONAL EPS

The seasonal artistic responses of Jon Foreman absolutely come alive on the final two of four entries, Spring and Summer. And, given the themes represented, that much should be obvious before even listening to them.

But for those who found Fall and Winter a few too many shades toward the dark side, these two EPs are just what you’ve been waiting for. The material gets sunnier on the Summer EP, and that’s where the most fun is had. “Resurrect Me” reminds the listener of Jars of Clay’s “Revolution” for its on-stage frivolity. “A Mirror is Harder to Hold” is a lighter, Sufjan tune with acoustics and horns matching wits, and Spring’s “Baptize My Mind” shifts its unplugged time signatures brilliantly. Summer’s “Instead of a Show” is a slightly Western-themed hammock tune, and “In My Arms” is a simply sung ballad of love and longing.

So far, each disc in the Foreman solo collective seems to possess one signature piece, and the same is true of these EPs. Spring boasts “Your Love is Strong”—a five minute, alluring acoustic build that uses strings, rhythmic strumming and Foreman’s vulnerable vocal reach to haunt the listener long after the song has ended. Summer responds with closing track “Again.” The song is a beautiful refrain asking God to remind his people of what He can and will do for them. And so again, Foreman displays brilliant sonic works of art for those willing to enter into his solo gallery. –Matt Conner

Click here to read the review of Fall and Winter.