Even the most casual listen to “Let’s Not Forget the Story,” from Inpop’s new artists, Foolish Things, reveals a faith as solid as their pop rock sound.
These five friends from Colorado make music with a purpose. Vocalist Mark Labriola, as well as the other band members, is happily articulate about their mission to wake up Christians and challenge non-Christians to "remember the story." As for the worship songs on the album? It's great that people enjoy them but really, they're on the record "to please God." The refreshing thing is that you really believe him when he says it. At least you do if you've listened to their album at all. Their swirling soundscapes and bold lyrics pulsate with sincerity.
The lyrics of sparkling opener "Who Can Compare" tips you off immediately that Foolish Things bring a message of awe: Needer of nothing and giver of all/ Every living thing survives by the strength your boundless love supplies.
The intricate arrangements and rhythms of "This Love" only seal the deal. The whole album is filled with tiny details that enrich and illuminate their sound, like the buzzy bridge of melodic rocker "Be Still." The immaculate lyrics of "It's Not Home" shine through churning walls of sound: I've gotta say that I've lived too many days like I belong here/ It's not home/ I'm shocked to see the measure of where I've been storing treasure/It's not home.
Radio single "Spirit Come" is infectious pop rock, and standout track "Can't Believe," with its dream-like note-bending, is what Van Gogh would play if he had a guitar. "Find Your Way Back" powerfully illustrates the Father heart of God as He prepares His Son for His costly journey. Dripping with passion, its painful truth makes the song almost difficult to listen to. The project closes with a piano power ballad, also brimming with forceful truth whose challenge cuts to the heart. Forgive me when I've come to pray to you/Just to get it done before I run away from you/Forgive me when I've merely said the words/and severed devotion from all of my motions.
The band's name comes from 1 Corinthians 1:27: "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise." Foolish Things is a talented band of grateful worshippers who have embraced their fool's status joyfully. It is indeed wisdom, both spiritually and musically.
