This installment in Sony's excellent Essential compilation series draws from the 1995 to 2007 recordings of the popular Christian alternative rock act
Jars of Clay. Led by amiable frontman
Dan Haseltine, the Illinois-based quartet managed to achieve crossover pop success in the mid-'90s -- particularly with the urgent, folk-tinged "Flood" -- a feat uncommon at the time. Along with that track, other highlights on this well-selected two-disc set include the soaring "God Will Lift Up Your Head" and the New Wave-tinged "Dead Man (Carry Me)," songs that showcase both the group's versatility and knack for casting spiritual themes in catchy pop/rock arrangements. As a band overview,
The Essential Jars of Clay eclipses the previously issued
Furthermore, and makes for an ideal introduction to the revered CCM ensemble.