By Grant Schrantz, Staff Writer
This riveting new album released by a New York based indie band, The Rapture, captivated me from the first time I heard it. The entrancing potpourri of guitar, bass, saxophone, and synthesizers all mix together in perfect harmony to give the listener a very unique auditory experience unlike many mainstream artists, it is perfect for anyone who wants to listen to something new and interesting.
The Rapture emerged from San Francisco, California in 1998 with Luke Jenner as front man, Vito Roccoforte on drums, and Chris Relyea on keys. They went on to release their first studio album, Mirror the following year, and moved to New York. As time went on, the band changed labels a few times, shed Relyea and a couple other members, and released the albums Echoes(2003) and Pieces of the People We Love(2006). The band’s current lineup consists of vocalist/guitarist Luke Jenner, drummer Vito Roccoforte, and Gabriel Andruzzi, who contributes saxophone, keyboard, bass, percussion, and backing vocals to the group.
The Rapture released their fourth studio album, In the Grace of your Love on September 2, 2011 after a five year hiatus. This album is rather interesting in that its focus is drastically different than its predecessors. Many things including the title of the album and the majority of its lyrics point toward a religious, specifically Christian message that Jenner has written into the music. Songs like “How Deep is your Love” and “Come Back to Me” relay this message vividly.
All in all, I would strongly recommend this album. Jenner’s serene vocals and lyrics, Andruzzi’s bass grooves, Roccoforte’s drumming, and the electronic aspect really made this album for me. I enjoyed it, and anyone who likes Indie, Electronica, or just some good old rock will too. I give this a 4 out of 5 stars.
