[HC:Review] Abel – Lesser Men
Hailing from Poughkeepsie, New York, the indie masters of Abel artfully weave angst and calm to craft a sound that challenges while it soothes. Abel brings distinct grooves that are energetic without being over embellished, using brushstrokes from several genres to saturate sincere songs with several layers of color. While Lesser Men is far from the conventions of a typical Sunday morning, the environment cast by this musical parcel will drive the listener towards a vertical experience, infusing life into private as well as communal worship settings. Abel harnesses the essential nature of guided stillness, with well executed periods of tonal subtlety flecked into their indie edge, to offer the listener a broad emotional range in the experience of raw praise.
Kevin Kneifel’s vocal styling is a restless blend of salty, soothing and inspiring complemented harmoniously with various mixes of acoustic and electric instruments at times brought nearly to a mute while at other times firing on all cylinders. Kneifel has said of Lesser Men, “The album is about how we often lose focus on the things that are truly lasting and important in life. It’s about discovering that forgiveness is real, and that no matter how far away
from God we wander, he always takes us back.”
“Silver” is a simple, straightforward and thoughtful song of adoration, which would stand up against some of the premiere vocal treats currently being offered in the alt-indie-rock scene. The much groovier driven “Saints” threads segments of the teachings of Christ into an earnest plea for personal and corporate revival, “If only we had eyes to see, to see you with. If only we had ears to hear. If only we could be a children of love.” The track “Standing Still” perhaps best demonstrates the signature Abel blend in offering a song that will draw listeners to dance joyously while releasing a soul cleansing cry as they seek to connect with The Grand Music Maker.
With the release of Lesser Men on Come & Live Records, Abel will continue to stir listeners with a tasty amalgamation of beauty with a bite. Through this their second album, Abel again shares a personal message where faith intersects with life rather than existing as an impotent philosophy. Lesser Men lyrically resonates with the corporeal while inviting the listener to transcend life’s boundaries through an upward connection. Tried and true Able-ites will not be disappointed and new fans will be drawn into a unique atmosphere of passion and sincerity.
Abel’s Lesser Men releases October 19, 2010 on Come & Live Records. As with all C&L artists, the album will be available in its entirety for FREE digital download at the C&L website. Abel (Indie – NY) is: Kevin Kneifel – Vocals / Guitar; Dan Bishop – Guitar / Keys; Alex David – Bass and John Rell III – Drums.
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I have come to call sinners to turn from their sins, not to spend my time with those who think they are already good enough. – Jesus