VENUS

Presence. For the first time, as I listened to Joy Williams new project ‘Venus,’ I felt that her songwriting had shifted to the present. You know how sometimes when you’re engaged in discussion with someone, almost physically in their personal space, close enough to see the small wrinkles developing in their face, but you’re not really there? Your aural faculties are operating perfectly, but you’re not ‘there,’ thinking about your to-do list, or perhaps someone you have a meeting with in a few hours. But you’re not present in the moment…in the now. And there are many things required for an individual to be present, in the moment. Balance, order, rhythm and harmony are required to exist in the present now. ‘Venus’ is a beautiful example of an artist who has entered into the now, undoubtedly inspired by living and experiencing life as it has been dealt to her...truly bearing her soul. If you are a longtime fan of Joy Williams and are sad that this collection is not identical (or even similar) to her previous CCM efforts, I would encourage you not to read the Psalms of Lament. Is it not acceptable for a person to have questions, concerns and frustrations, and to express those emotions using creative art forms? Does expressing one’s questions and concerns with the Creator invalidate their relationship with him? Consider Vincent van Gogh and his dealings with the Church (capital C). How did he artistically express his struggles with human beings who claim to represent Jesus (check into the history and detail of ‘Starry Night’ in the excellent book ‘The Divine Commodity,’ by Skye Jethani)? If you are sad that this is not a new Civil Wars project, recognize that as wonderful as their material is, true artists will continue to create, move forward and explore new avenues. My wife is a wonderful chef/cook, but our sons and I have learned not to tell her how much we love something she has prepared because we won’t see it on the dinner table again anytime soon…she continues to challenge herself and her muse to perfect new and interesting creations and, once she has conquered a particular dish, she feels the need to move along, challenge herself and grow in her culinary skills. The dilemma is in the artist’s heart, whether to please the public or continue to follow their muse and challenge themselves? Am I comparing ‘Venus’ to art? Yes, I most certainly am because it truly is a unique thing among so much of the pap that passes for creativity in our present day. Obviously subjective opinion (as is every review), but I believe this recording has more of a timeless quality, certainly more than her CCM recordings (which, being produced to typical CCM standards (pleasant, for lack of another word), which really lack much in the way of aural and lyrical depth that is on full display here. Here we find lyrical subject matter that would be at home with Paula Cole, Peter Gabriel, Josh Garrels, Paul Simon or Matthew Perryman Jones; interpersonal relationships, social & spiritual commentary, heartbreak and restoration. As I initially read the lyrics I was reminded of Phil Collins first solo recording, not musically, but lyrically, and the depth of introspection that the breakup of his marriage had caused him to expose to the listening public. That said, it does not sound anything like that recording, nor is she dealing with divorce in a marital relationship, but the introspection going on here is wonderful and honest. I hear clear flashes vocally of Kate Bush, Peter Gabriel and Paul Simon (around the Ladysmith Black Mambazo period), emotive, genuine and comfortable (thanks to Charlie Peacock). Instrumentally, I am intrigued because the instrumental production and arrangements are exceptionally unique (Matt Morris) and, though there are clear nods to other artists (most obviously the rolling tom pattern and the chorus bgv’s on ‘Before I Sleep’ to Kate Bush’s ‘Runnin Up That Hill’), it all sounds fresh, contemporary (but not trendy) and non-derivative. This is a recording I will purchase more copies of and share with many other friends who are discerning listeners; those who do not regard music only as something to use as ambience when they have company, rather something to enjoy, soak up and experience the roller coaster ride of emotions. Though the recording process may have served as therapy in some instances, I say it’s a fabulous and exceptional piece of art, thank you Ms Williams.

good music

Powerful--I just downloaded and listened through the whole album and was really moved by the lyrics and Joy's voice. The emotion has a basis which is what I resonated with. I'm a bit more familiar with her career than the first reviewer and can say that it's been incredible listening to her progression from her Christian albums to the Civil Wars and now to a more mature and reflective sound. It's certainly worth purchasing and listening to.

I don't usually write Amazon reviews, but as a writer, a musician, a songwriter, and a fan of Joy Williams, this one has been dying to get out. I was reading the interviews and watching the marketing in preparation for Joy's new album, and even being stingy, I couldn't help but cave in to buying the new album. Maybe part of it is I relate. Isn't that what good songwriting is, making something that someone can deeply relate to? I relate to Joy because her career was born in the Christian music scene. I also grew up listening to Christian music, and although I didn't grow out of my faith, I did grow past the fact that a believer had to be confined to listening and writing Christian music. When I met Joy in person that was the first question I had to ask her is how she went from writing and singing Christian music to writing secular music. And it wasn't just any secular music. There was an obvious chemistry between her and John Paul White in the Civil Wars, and then there was the small detail that they were both married...to other people. When they sang, it was literally like they were making love. I thought, wow, I would love to be in a similar duo, but I know I personally would have a problem with being that close to another women's husband. And you read between the lines that maybe it wasn't okay. Ah, it was dynamic, it was profitable, but yes, maybe it wasn't okay in the end. For both their marriages and probably a host of other reasons we may never know, it had to come to an end. I love that she bares her soul in this album. And like me, a woman in her 30's, there are a lot of endings and beginnings in her life. The obvious death of the Civil Wars, her dad dying, her marriage almost crumbling, the birth of her child, the rebirth of her marriage, leaving Nashville, moving back to California, and the rebirth of her as a solo artist. This all comes across in the album. In fact, it almost seems like a metamorphosis from death and grief to an embracing and peace with the new life. What I also love about the album is some of the creative beats underpinning the album. What I can't stand are what I call "box beats". Those dorky beats that come pre-packaged and unimaginatively inhabit much of pop music today. The percussion on this album is fresh and moving. I loved some of her simple piano supported songs right before she became famous with the Civil Wars. She hearkens back to that time with some of the clear piano framework. Breathtaking piano licks. Her voice and her melodies are gorgeous on this album. Lilting along. I almost feel like I am listening to Enya or an Irish folk song in parts. I have to say though that some of the more angst filled songs, I ADORE (Before I Sleep, One Day I Will, What a Good Woman Does, Until the Levee). And some of the more calm songs seem rather boring, and I could really do without. I'm not saying I don't appreciate them, or that they won't move other people, or that they won't grow on me. However, some of those angst filled songs, I can belt at the top of my lungs, ready to burst in tears. Ah, they speak to me and move me. I still feel a little sad to see Joy alone on stage. There is something missing without John Paul White. (Maybe try a female duo this time. Hey, I can do a MEAN harmony for you Joy). But I am glad she has moved on...that she has found her voice...rediscovered her husband...and found a sort of happiness. Thanks Joy for giving of yourself to the world...in your music...for taking the risk to truly bare your soul.

Beautiful songs that tell stories of her journeys. I love how each song is different from the next. I recommend this album for anyone who appreciates getting lost in the lyrics and enjoys the sound of a beautiful natural voice. She speaks from her soul which is a refreshing change from what is popular in today's music.

Before The Civil Wars, Joy Williams was a singer in the Christian music industry. I read a review of this album in a Christian magazine. So I expected that the messages in these songs had an emphasis in Christianity. Not so. There's nothing inappropriate by any means. I enjoy some of these tracks. But for those who know Joy for her former career, don't come expecting an overtly positive message.

I loved this album from the first play through. One of those you can just leave on repeat and listen to all day long! I'm now searching every day for the tour dates to be announced!

This is a beautiful album that truly captures the talent of Joy Williams. Each song offers something new and exciting, leaving the listener wanting more. If you loved the Civil Wars you will love this album!