Blink (CD - 2007)

While other Christian artists have made greater inroads into the secular world of modern pop/rock, few have displayed the endurance -- not to mention the universality -- of Plumb. Rising to prominence in the wake of Jars of Clay, whose post-grunge single "Flood" further opened the gates for spirituality to enter the rock genre, Plumb has since emerged as a singer/songwriter whose work often transcends the confines of alternative Contemporary Christian Music. Blink is undoubtedly spiritual, yes, and tracks like "God Will Take Care of You" and "Children of the Heavenly Father" won't convert many atheists to Plumb's serene sounds. Still, there's a universal current to Blink, whose haunting sublimity often sounds like a mature, stripped-down offering from Evanescence. "Waves will crash around, but you will be safe in my arms," Plumb sings during the semi-lullaby "In My Arms," ostensibly to her newborn son (to whom Blink is dedicated). But why can't a listener assume she's singing to a lover? And why shouldn't Plumb's religious fan base interpret the lyrics as something God would say to his followers? There's a secular/sacred duality to such tunes, allowing Plumb to remain faithful to her beliefs without flaunting them to distancing effect. Of course, it doesn't hurt that her songwriting is nothing short of top-notch, with soft electronica flourishes bubbling around her haunting, honest alto. It's a clever mix of the Postal Service and sophisticated new age spirituality, with traces of latter-day Suzanne Vega thrown in for good measure. Those determined to dislike god-fearing music might not be swayed, but Blink is one of Plumb's strongest efforts to date. ~ Andrew Leahey minimize