Description
The New Earth is the sophomore solo album by the American singer and songwriter John Michael Talbot of Mason Proffit fame, released on Sparrow Records in 1977, distributed by Word. The album was recorded in the fall of 1976 by Terry Jamison at Golden Voice Recording Studios in South Pekin, Illinois; and was produced by John Michael Talbot with production assistance by Billy Ray Hearn. Mastered by Al Perkins and Lanky Linstrot. All songs composed by John Michael Talbot. (Trivia: Jamison actually also engineered Petra’s self-titled debut album, as well as the band’s sophomore album Come And Join Us released in 1977, both recorded at Golden Voice Recording Studios with the latter mastered by Linstrot.)
The album tracks “The Greatest ‘Tis Love” and “Shiloh” were as well featured on Sparrow Spotlight Sampler, a multi-artist compilation released by Sparrow Records in 1978.
The professionalism continues on The New Earth which duplicates the rural acoustic sound heard on the debut. Side one begins anther suite comprised of «The Greatest Is Love», «Shiloh» and «The King of Kings», all with sensitive lead vocals and harmonizing that perfectly complement the mood. Some country rockers («Dance With Him»), some acoustic ballads («Cast Down Your Cares»), some acoustic ballads that turn into country rockers («The Last Trumpet»). Also check out the fierce banjo instrumental «The Coming» – man, that thing smokes! [Ken Scott, The Archivist, 4th Edition]
All ye brethren who cry out for tunesmiths who write with grace and substance, gather ’round John Michael Talbot’s still working the vineyard for ‘The New Earth’.
Relying heavily on unadorned vocals and acoustic guitar backup, John’s easy flowing music supports strong Christian lyrics. Talbot pulls no punches exhorting Christians to live what they preach:
Repent of seeking vain glory
Through the gifts in the Lord’s name you give
And repent of all the first stones cast to kill
While your own damned self-righteousness livesIn keeping with the theme of ‘The New Earth’, Talbot points the way to its realization in «The Greatest ‘Tis Love». He admonishes the rich to share freely with the poor, implying that riches are both material and spiritual:
Let he who has two give to him who has none
For of all His commandments, the greatest ’tis love
Let us share all things common, as each man has need
Then the free gift of Jesus, the nations could see.«Dance With Him» is an up-tempo song that says we dance to celebrate the Spirit and the love of Jesus. Then, “the new earth will be comin’/ And turnin’ in love.”
Fine musical talents are expressed here. Talbot’s unassuming style serves as an excellent vehicle for the impact of his message. Melodic lines weave deftly through strains of folk, country and soft rock. He is a master at music that generates atmosphere and mirrors emotion. Strings and drums are saved for moments of emphasis as excitment builds in the chorus of the title track, “Hosanna He’ll come/ And Jesus will come…”
«The Coming» on Side Two is a resounding reminder that Talbot is a virtuoso at banjo picking.
Like his first album, ‘The New Earth’ deserves more than mere foot tapping. [David Bruce, Harmony Magazine, No. 11]
> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-new-earth/716432770)
LP tracklist:
Side One
The Suite (The Greatest ‘Tis Love / Shiloh / King Of Kings – 8:28)
A1. “The Greatest ‘Tis Love” – 4:17
A2. “Shiloh” – 2:35
A3. “King Of Kings” – 1:34
A4. “Dance With Him” – 3:38
A5. “The Last Trumpet” – 5:22
Side Two
B1. “Prepare Ye The Way” – 4:45
B2. “Cast Down Your Cares” – 2:34
B3. “The Coming” – 4:17
B4. “The New Earth” – 3:06
B5. “Let The People Sing Amen” – 1:58
Note: Simultaneously released on 8-track tape, cassette, and 12-inch vinyl LP by Sparrow Records. Re-issued on CD by Sparrow Records in 1993, distributed by EMI Music.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.