Reviewed by James Lidgett You would be forgiven for wondering what was left for Martin Smith and co to do or to say. With a career now well into its teenage years and with no fewer than 10 studio albums, plus a handful of live projects, under their belts, should Delirious? not have done as so many before them and become "comfortable"? The very last thing that their new album 'Kingdom Of Comfort' is is comfortable; and that is exactly the point being made, and one that is made well. Being privileged enough to see the band on their tour, the experience of being part of 2000 people all singing and asking for God to "Save me, from this kingdom of comfort where I am king, my unhealthy lust of material things" is truly humbling. The band do not profess to have all of the answers, but they do remind one and all that no matter the adversities facing the world, we all have a duty, and we cannot give up! This album is quite a departure from the style many may have become accustomed to. Whereas in the past, the lyrical content of the band's songs, notably "History Maker", have been very forward looking and with a certain determined drive, this album is much more of a reflection, mainly on the experiences of the last two years of touring, particularly in under privileged areas and countries. Soaring melodies, haunting strings and earth-shaking messages bring these experiences into stark realisation in one of the most raw, passionate albums that these Christian rock titans have ever released.
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Delirious? return with their 9th studio album, ready to risk it all.
From cancer to consumerism, five star dreams to slums and poverty made personal, Kingdom of Comfort questions everything.
The result is their most risky, real and compelling album to date - a collection of songs that act like catalysts more than lullabies, that spark fires that refine faith.
With God Is Smiling already downloaded free by over 9,000 fans on their new site, Delirious? have set the scene - the rule book has gone, the energy is even higher, the time is most definitely right for the most remarkable phase of their already remarkable career. |
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Don't get me wrong, I love Delirious. At their best, their music is awe-inspiring and many of their lyrics move me more than almost anything else. But with this album they've changed. Musically, it's not as strong as the best of their previous releases. But much more worryingly, lyrically, this represents a move away from the evangelical mainstream. Their influences are people like Shane Claiborne and Brian McClaren who each provide a short essay in the accompanying booklet. Both of these guys deny key elements of historic Christianity (such as Jesus death on the cross paying for our sins, hell, even the knowabilityof God). Unfortunately this shines through in Smith's lyrics. Sorry; I'd have loved to love it. But I'm not convinced I know the same gospel they do.