The Trades - Music Review: 12 Stones, "Potter's Field"

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ARTICLE

Music Review: 12 Stones, "Potter's Field"
by Scott Juba
Published: August 11, 2004

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After an impressive debut album that sold over 300,000 copies, 12 Stones is back with their sophomore release, “Potter’s Field”. Arriving in stores on August 24th, the new album is a fine representation of the band’s artistic growth. Their sound has evolved from the first album, and the results are undeniably impressive. “Potter’s Field” has a stronger, more emphatic sound than the first release did, and Paul McCoy’s powerful voice stands out with authority.

The CD kicks off with three great tracks (“Speak Your Mind”, “The Last Song”, and the band’s new single “Far Away”). Then the record stalls out with the mediocre track, “Shadows”, which lacks the distinctive edge that the previous three songs contain. From track 5 (“Lifeless”) on, however, the album never falters again.

Track 6, “Bitter”, is highlighted by a memorable guitar rhythm and is perhaps the most infectious song on the CD. The following tracks are similarly impressive, especially “Stay”, which is the best song on the album. McCoy’s vocals have never sounded better, and the song’s great hook makes it a certain chart topping radio hit. The lyrics stick in your brain and will have you singing to yourself long after the song is finished playing.

Another notable aspect of “Potter’s Field” is the unrelenting high energy level that permeates the disc. If you’re looking for an energy jolting, adrenaline rush, this is the CD for you. Each song has a fast paced, vigorous tempo that should please most hard rock fans.

As with their first CD, a strong Christian element is once again present on this new release. I personally connect and identify with the Christian themes that 12 Stones' music conveys. But even if you don’t, the songs aren’t overtly religious, so they have the ability to mean different things to different people. This freedom of interpretation is a definite plus when it comes to attracting a diverse fan base.

In addition, there are some songs that don’t play on religious themes and focus on more secular meanings. One common thread that runs through much of the album is the idea that everyone should make their own decisions and pride themselves in their individuality. The songs “Far Away” and “Three Leaf Loser” particularly emphasize this message.

In closing, if you’re only going to purchase one CD in the month of August, “Potter’s Field” is the one to get. This is an album that you’ll have spinning in your CD player for quite some time.

Overall Grade: A-

To Purchase "Potter's Field" at Amazon.com Click Here

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