The Last Day

Description

The self-titled album by the American alternative folk-rock/jazz-rock band The Last Day was released on New Life Records in 1972. The album was recorded at New Life Studios in Spokane, Washington.

Most Christian groups that utilize saxophone seem to end up in either the jazz/pop or jazz/MOR camp. The Last Day, on the other hand, has created a masterpiece that while undeniably influenced by jazz, solidly retains a classic rock/folk-rock context – similar to Traffic’s John Barleycorn Must Die in that respect. Don Lanphere’s alto and soprano saxophones are an integral part of the group’s sound, the skillful licks effortlessly washing over the music as intricate jazz solos or moody intoxicating ripples. Also some good underground electric rhythm and lead guitar work that places the group in that whole west-coast guitar-based “psych” scene alongside Wilson McKinley, Last Call Of Shiloh, etc. The mesmerizing male/female harmonies are equally cutting edge. Sturdy progressive folk-rock vibes can be found within such selections as «God’s Nature», «Cloud Of Glory» and «Joyful Noise». Other songs like «I Hear The Lord», «Come On Home» and «Heaven In Your Heart» fashion a dreamy mysterious folk/psych presence. All original songs, save for a creative interpretation of «One In The Spirit». In fact the whole LP is one of the most unique and creative Jesus music albums I’ve heard. Magnificent color fantasy art spanning both the front and back of the gate-fold cover. Spokane, Washington custom label. [Ken Scott, The Archivist, 4th edition]

LP tracklist:

Side One
A1. “God’s Nature”
A2. “I Hear The Lord”
A3. “Cloud Of Glory”
A4. “Come On Home”
A5. “Saxiano”

Side Two
B1. “What Ya Gonna Do?”
B2. “Sittin On A Thought”
B3. “One In The Spirit”
B4. “Heaven In Your Heart”
B5. “Joyful Noise”

Note: LP housed in a gatefold sleeve.

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