Unseen Power

Description

Unseen Power is the thirteenth studio album by the American rock band Petra, released on DaySpring Records in November 1991, a division of Word. Also manufactured and distributed by Epic, a division of Sony Music. The album was recorded by John and Dino Elefante, J.R. McNeely, and Doug Beiden at Pakaderm and Pakaderm West Studios with the Elefante brothers producing. Mixed by Niel Kernon assisted by J.R. McNeely and Beiden. Arranged by the Elefante brothers as well as band members Bob Hartman and John Lawry.

The band lineup on this album is John Schlitt on lead vocals, John Lawry on keyboards, Bob Hartman on guitars, Ronny Cates on bass, and Louie Weaver on drums. Additional backing vocals provided by Jamie Rowe and Tony Palacios of Guardian, Ron Gollner, Rob Rock, Sara Tennison, Doug Beiden, Rose Stone, Alfie Silas, Olivia McClurkin, Perry Morgan, as well as Howard and Alfred McCrary.

When the delivery man dropped the package containing Petra’s newest tape on my doorstep, I was watching another rerun of Rocky V on cable TV. Cosmic accident? I think not! There are a lot of parallels you could draw between the beloved pug who operates on equal parts heart and talent, and the hard-working quintet whose longevity is also due to dogged detemination and belief in itself (as well as the Lord, of course). But just as Stallone’s journeyman fighter has many more subtle facets, so too does the music of Hartman, Schlitt, Weaver, Lawry and Cates.

So I settled down with the ‘Unseen Power’ tape, munching on crow and humble pie (more on that later). The cover features a photo of sleek, aerodynamically perfect windmills. These machines serve both as a metaphor for God’s “unseen power,” and Petra’s combination of a timeless message married to the modern technology of the recording studio. Just as these metal marvels are an improvement on their predecessors, so Petra and its producers – John and Dino Elefante, and noted mainstream engineer Niel Kernon – have updated the band’s sound, without sacrificing the sonic wallop which has become the Petra trademark.

That the band’s sound is warmer and less “processed” is apparent from the outset. The opening fades in on the sound of wind chimes, church bells and voices whispering a subtle message reflecting the album’s title. Then Hartman’s guitar comes blasting in with an unprecedent amount of oomph on «Destiny», the first of several full-bore rockers. Even the layered vocals, another Elefante signature, seem appropriate to the urgency of the lyrics: “When you gonna see he has a will/ For you and only you/ Fulfill your destiny.”

«Who’s on the Lord’s Side» breaks in with a danceable keyboard riff, and a gospel-oriented chorus that’s both hip and powerful. Hartman’s guitar then kicks off «Ready, Willing and Able» with a catchy and propulsive blues-shuffle, while John Schlitt’s authoritative vocal sells the metaphor with the challenge “We’re either out or we’re in all the way.” Certainly the biggest departure for Petra has to be the inclusion of the soulful «Hand on My Heart». Ballads are nothing new for the band, but here Schlitt convincingly treads into Marvin Gaye/Smokey Robinson territory, again aided by several backing vocalists, including Jamie Rowe and Tony Palacios of Guardian, and the McCrarys. «I Need to Hear From You» closes out the side with crisp musical and vocal performances, as well as one of Hartman’s hookiest choruses.

The aptly-titled «Dance» begins side two, although the title refers more to the lyrics than the metallic, stomping rhythm. Hartman’s chorus cleverly suggests you “Dance with the one who brung ya.” «Secret Weapon» is another bluesy strut, which seems to borrow a page from Guardian’s playbook, but Schlitt rocks the vocal nicely, while Lawry’s organ riffs and Hartman’s crunchy rhythms drive home the message that the secret weapon is prayer, which can overcome any obstacles. «Sight Unseen» is the only track on which Bob seems to fall back on his former tendency to write a sing-songy melody that’s not really strong enough to carry what’s essentially a very good lyric. «Hey World» gingerly treads the line between pedantic and sensitive, as it tells the story of a young woman who elects to give up her child for adoption, rather than abort it, and a potential suicide who, just in time, finds “The courage and the hope/ To face another day.” In the real world, the endings aren’t always happy, but it’s a powerful song, nonetheless.

The album closes with a John Lawry worship anthem, «In the Likeness of You», which, while strong melodically, is not up to the standards of the superior Hartman/Elefante material.

(Burp!) Excuse me, but that humble pie is about to fill me up. I confess to not being the biggest Petra fan in the past, and I’ve certainly pulled no punches in criticizing the Elefantes. On ‘Unseen Power’ though, the band and its support staff display superb production prowess, and give the fans just a touch of the expected, while also challenging them musically and lyrically. Those three things are difficult to balance, and I salute them with the highest marks! [Bruce A. Brown, CCM, January 1992]

In this album Petra display a versatility which will raise a few eyebrows. Just as Carman fans will be shocked by Petra’s anvil heavy riff when they guested on ‘Addicted To Jesus‘, so Petrafied enthusiasts will be stunned by «Hand On My Heart» here. For here’s a track a ringer for a Smokey Robinson-style Motown oldie and seemingly light years from the power chords and smoke machines of past Petra triumphs. But lovers of the most successful AOR band in Christendom should fear not. In the main here they still lay down thunderous drums and axe sounds like on the urgent opener «Destiny» and the raunchy blues-rocker «Ready, Willing And Able». John Schlitt has never sounded in better voice, the hooks are as unassuredly catchy as ever, and the John and Dino Elefante’s production is greatly assisted by a high-octane mix from Niel Kernon. Petra arent just any old rock band. These guys bring together a bouquet of their best music, seasoned with a pinch of the unusual (check out the album’s atmospheric introduction and conclusion), a work which has individuality and class stamped right through it. My own favourite track on the album is «I Need To Hear From You», a real cry from the heart to our Glorious Saviour. This is rock at its most refined, all in all a priceless piece of purest Petra that no rock collection will be complete without. [Les M Wilkes, Cross Rhythms, February 1992]

Girder Music Promo, Remastered CD/LP, 2023

Released in 1991 on Dayspring Records, Unseen Power was the thirteenth studio album by Petra. It won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Gospel Album in 1992, and a Dove Award for Rock Recording Song for «Destiny». It features a cover of Rev. Timothy Wright’s Gospel song «Who’s on the Lord’s Side», with a rock flavor. Other popular songs are the rhythmic «Dance», with music composed by John Elefante, and the rocking «Ready, Willing, and Able».

“Unseen Power” showcases Petra at the height of their creative prowess, delivering a collection of anthems that will captivate and inspire listeners. From the moment you press play, you’ll be swept away by the electrifying guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and soaring vocals that define Petra’s signature sound for years to come.

The album opens with the electrifying title track, «Destiny», a high-energy anthem that sets the tone for what’s to come. With its powerful message of faith and the unseen forces at work in our lives, the song resonates deeply, inviting listeners to tap into their own inner strength.

As you delve further into the album, you’ll encounter a diverse range of tracks that showcase Petra’s musical versatility. From the infectious hooks of «Dance» to the melodic rock ballad «I Need To Hear From You», each song carries a unique energy that will have you singing along and moving to the rhythm.

“Unseen Power” also features heartfelt and introspective tracks such as «Who’s on the Lord’s Side» which explore the complexities of faith, loyalty, and redemption. These songs provide a deeper glimpse into the band’s thought-provoking songwriting and lyrical depth.

Throughout the album, Petra’s unwavering commitment to their Christian beliefs shines through, delivering messages of hope, perseverance, and the transformative power of faith. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music, “Unseen Power” will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your soul.

With its masterful production, exceptional musicianship, and spiritually uplifting lyrics, “Unseen Power” is a testament to Petra’s enduring legacy as one of the most influential bands in Christian rock history. This album is a true gem that will stand the test of time, continuing to inspire and resonate with listeners for generations to come.

Immerse yourself in the unforgettable experience of “Unseen Power” and discover the musical brilliance of Petra. Let the electrifying rhythms, soul-stirring melodies, and powerful messages ignite your spirit and leave an indelible mark on your musical journey. Get ready to unleash the unseen power within.

> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/unseen-power/1165980751)

CD tracklist:

01. Destiny
02. Who’s On The Lord’s Side
03. Ready, Willing And Able
04. Hand On My Heart
05. I Need To Hear From You
06. Dance
07. Secret Weapon
08. Sight Unseen
09. Hey World
10. In The Likeness Of You

Note: Simultaneously released on cassette and CD by DaySpring Records. Remastered by Rob Colwell and re-issued on CD in 2023 through the combined efforts of Girder Music and Word/Curb Records (1500 copies only).