On a balmy day in early July my wife and I exchanged our autographs (and a large sum of money) for the keys to our new home. The house we left behind was best described as old, or “charming” as the online listing read. It was more than 100 years old. Meanwhile, our new house is young enough to be our old home's great-grandchild. Everything is new. New appliances, new cabinets, new toilet paper holders.
I’m happy to report we’ve thoroughly enjoyed our new residence, but as we bask in its glorious newness, I can’t help but think: one day this house is going to be old. Its wood will rot, its metal will rust, and its foundation will eventually cave-in.
Psalm 102:25-27 reads:
"In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. Like clothing you will change them and they will be discarded. But you remain the same, and your years will never end."
In stark contrast to the fleeting days of the world stands the eternal Christ, and His eternal nature is the subject of Rivers and Robots’ latest release, The Eternal Son (May ’16).
"In stark contrast to the fleeting days of the world stands the eternal Christ."
Rivers and Robots, so named for their tasteful intertwining of acoustic and electric sounds, is an indie worship band from the UK. This album certainly lives up to that name. Its sound goes from indie to bluesy to folky and back to indie again— sometimes within just a single track. It moves seamlessly between acoustic, rootsy sounds on “Jesus Your Blood” and ethereal electric guitars with groovy bass lines on “Wait For You”. You want saxophones? They’ve got those, too. Give “The Eternal Son" a listen.
The vocals possess an especially mystical quality, at times seeming almost whispered, while simultaneously feeling very forward and prominent. Stripped of any unnecessary harmonies, they exude an effortless sincerity.
Overall, the musicianship on this album is very high. The melodies and arrangements are interesting, creative, and innovative.
The lyrical content is highly scriptural. Almost every track is built around direct quotations of a Psalm or New Testament passage. They deal with Jesus in eternity past ("To the Highest Place", "Who Is Like Our God"), His time on earth ("Jesus, Your Blood"), and His coming eternal reign ("The Eternal Son").
"A Love That Carries Me" is purely addictive. Its combination of rhythmic groove, syncopated melodies, and worshipful lyrics is masterful.