12.27.05

A modern rock concept album about a man, Al, who was raised in a decent household and goes through life’s many trials and tribulations, falling into sins such as pornography (“Dorian Gray”), greed (“Time Slave”) and serious family neglect. Al even goes so far as pressuring his teenage daughter, Jane, to abort (“Running with Eyes Closed”) his grandchild (he fails), verbally abusing his priest and ostracizing his daughter and granddaughter from his life. This fatherly neglect drives Jane further into the sins of this world.

It takes a couple of traumatic events to soften Al’s heart to God. After learning his wife is diagnosed with cancer and her daughter dies in a car accident (“Love Neglected”), Al seeks council from his priest. Fr. Francis consoles Al, even informing him that his daughter repented of her sins while on her deathbed. Al then reunites with his granddaughter. At the end of his life, Al is not afraid to die, and dies with a clear conscience.

Grasping for Hope in the Darkness won the Best Rock Album of the Year award at the 27th annual Canadian Gospel Music Association Covenant Awards. We appreciate Critical Mass tackling the tough issues, being honest and yet pointing their fans in the right direction. After listening, fans will know exactly where these guys stand and who they put their hope and faith in.

Oh, they also cover Kansas’ “Carry on Wayward Son,” a nice fit for the storyline.