Jubilee [PA] (CD - 2008)

On its third studio outing, JUBILEE, the Connecticut-based Christian rock act Ten Shekel Shirt presents another set of socially conscious, spiritually minded songs. Frontman Lamont Hiebert remains true to his international anti-slavery mission, embodied by the organization Love146, on powerful, passionate tunes such as the title track, "Fragile," and "You Rescue."

Lamont Hiebert's third disc under the Ten Shekel Shirt moniker is the truest reflection of his life work, the abolition of child trafficking and slavery. In the years since founding Love146 -- a nonprofit group for the rescue of children from such circumstances -- Hiebert has won worldwide recognition for his efforts. This, of course, interrupted his recording schedule, and Jubilee comes five years after his celebrated sophomore disc, 2002's Risk. Jubilee is a thoughtful, deliberate effort to both raise awareness of the social issue and to soothe victims. In both ways, the disc succeeds. As a tribute, it speaks volumes about an issue that isn't typically given the limelight. As an artistic statement, it speaks even more greatly to Hiebert's credit. Jubilee sounds like Jars of Clay's masterful self-titled debut, something even they haven't been able to replicate in their own career. It has the perfect combination of acoustic and alt-rock sounds, making it a must-have for fans and a welcome intro for new listeners as well. ~ Jared Johnson minimize