Rotation Reviewed

by Paul Thorson in The Call, May 2007

It doesn't happen very often for me that something "religious" also appeals to me in a "non-religious" way. Typically, these things are diametrically opposed even when they share common energy but differ in content. I often find the religious aspects contrived – even forced – in such a way that the meaning is lost. This must be why the word "sacred" was created. Religion sometimes works as a regulator; the sacred encompasses more, so much more.

Rotation synthesizes religiosity and modernity for me in a way that is inspiring. Isaac Everett and friends have brilliantly created new tradition in sacred music. It would be easy to reduce this work to a combination of sacred and secular but by now can't we confess "secular" is a poor word to describe music from the heart, mind, and soul of anyone?

Rotation is new tradition because it blends traditional texts, sounds, and concepts with contemporary elements of culture that are often a reaction opposed to tradition. Resurrection brings to mind – by way of subtle, quick guitar riffs and Hammond organ rolls – Italian Lounge music of the 1960s. The journey doesn't end there, however, because in the middle of this song we get a guitar solo reminiscent of the 70s. What if tradition actually includes aspects of all time?

That's one of the many gracious gifts of Rotation; to those of us who believe revelation didn't end with the canonization of the Bible, we are offered a glimpse of hope that tradition also continues stronger than ever and it does so in a way that doesn't reject older traditions in favor of newer ones.

While we're encompassing more of our experience into tradition, why not fuse together differing religio-cultures as well? Listening to Misconception, I encourage you not only to let the song entrance you but listen also for a multitude of cultural revelation. East meets West, Spain meets Elton John, and Peter Buck say hello to Allah in the background. Erm, now I understand why "misconception." As a Christian, it can be difficult to think of conception being preceded by anything other than immaculate. There's a lot in this title. And I haven't even commented on TjSnodgrass' very insightful lyrics.

As a complement to the concept, Rotation is brought to life by an amazing group of artists. The vocals are at times beautifully soothing and soulfully gutsy – always affecting a power that isn't threatening but inviting engagement. These vocals, the didjeridu, the oboe, and a host of other instruments caress though-provoking lyrics from Antiquity, the Middle Ages, and today.

As I listen to Rotation, I think of liturgy. I can see and hear these songs in worship and I hope I literally do someday. Yes, you're right, I didn't think it was possible, either. I mean, who hears music on a CD and thinks of worship, unless it's music you've already worshiped with? Worship owes it to itself and us to receive gifts like Rotation. It makes the circle bigger and shuffles the contents, something we can never have too much of.

There is way more to Rotation than what I have said here. Try it yourself.