Cave of the Heart
A concept album,Cave of the Heartfinds John Michael Talbot's Franciscan-styled Catholicism roaming not in the idiom of pantheism, yet utilizing a multiplicity of cultural traditions, language, and musical phrasing in unveiling the mystery of Christ spirit. From the opening anthem "Smaller Than Small," part of a triad based on the tenets of what Judeo-Christianity calls "natural religion," through to Book of Revelation songs including the anciently inspired "Kyrie," and reverentially meditative works such as the updated "Philippians Canticle," Talbot mindfully integrates sound theology with musical acumen. Tightly layered harmony vocal stacks feature contemporariesPhil KeaggyandMichael Card. The former also brandishes electric and acoustic touches alongside Talbot's welcome return to blues- and folk-inflected steel-string guitar. Highlights are the classically prayerful "Devotion," Talbot's elegantly orchestral rendering of Psalm 23 (written for his mother's funeral), and a gorgeous pair of a cappella motets on which he sings all the parts.--Paige La Grone