Sixpence None the Richer - Divine Discontent

CLASSIC!!!

This is one of those CD's I almost wore out. I still go back and listen to it ocassionaly. A must have CD in my opinion. November 27, 2007

Divinely boring at times.

A CD that needed more Leigh Nash's imagination and spiritually. I reaally wanted to love this CD, but I could not. I liked the earlier recordings.
If you love SNIR, buy their greatest hits and praise God! April 5, 2007

A Relaxing And Uplifting Pop/Alternative Album

I remember when Sixpence None The Richer first came out. In fact, the first single had a male vocalist (possibly Matt Slocum). I always enjoyed Leigh Nash's vocals. I remember seeing them on "Regis and Kelly" (maybe Kathi Lee was still there at that point, though I don't remember). Regis asked about where their name came from, and Slocum mentioned it was taken from C. S. Lewis' classic book "Mere Christianity" and recommended everybody read it.

Sixpence is a Christian band, but started crossing over in the late '90's with the single "Kiss Me." This project follows in the same vein. A high point is the excellent cover of Crowded House's "Don't Dream It's Over". I always wondered if this song had a Christian message, or if not directly, one that appeals to Christians, and Sixpence's recording reinforces my point.

Sometimes when a Christian artist crosses over, the songs become more secular, so the artist fits in with the lost. From this project, Sixpence has avoided this compromise. There are several songs that truly minister on this project.

Musically, this group fits into the alternative/pop vein. Over all, this is relaxing, without a lot of edge (even "Don't Dream It's Over" has a little less edge guitar wise than the original version by Crowded House). I found it soothing and uplifting.

Besides "Don't Dream It's Over", other good tracks include "Breathe Your Name", "Paralyzed", "I've Been Waiting", and "Eyes Wide Open."

December 14, 2006

A Greatly Missed Band!

Six Pence None the Richer's final album ( sadly, so it seems ) "Divine Discontent" was delayed a couple of years due to problems with their label before it was final released in 2002. It was the follow-up to their self-titled and much-acclaimed third album featuring the big hits "Kiss Me" and "There She Goes Again".

Though this album may be slightly more commercial and mainstream, the recipe is more or less the same; well-crafted songs, brilliant arrangements and production, and not least the moving vocals of Leigh Nash.

This album gave the band two more hits with "Don't Dream It's Over" written by Neil Finn and guitarist and songwriter Matt Slocum's own "Breathe Your Name".

Though the album does have any weak tracks other songs that deserve being brought forward are the beautiful rock ballad "I've Been Waiting" and the complex "Eyes Wide Open" - Paul McCartney or Emitt Rhodes inspiration?

The charming acoustic "Melody of You" also has a great deal of Paul McCartney feel to it.

The final track "Million Parachutes" is another rock ballad that leaves you back regretting that this great band decided to disband so soon - it seems they had much more to offer! November 4, 2006

Despair shattered by hope

I just bought this CD and it hasn't left my player since. I'm at least 4 years too late in doing so-yes it is that good! I have 2 theories-if these songs were written pre-9/11/01, then, then Sixpence has the gift of prophecy. If post 9/11, they have the gift of reflecting America in mourning. This album is so of it's time. Confusion, remorse, shame and fear seem to grip these songs-occasionally the sun breaks through, and it is so beautiful. There is a song for artists on this album too, which I love. I have another theory that 6pence knew they would break up soon. I think they wanted to make this a masterpiece while they still could. And they did. Now, keep in mind that Leigh's voice is complex and not everyone will get it. Personally, I enjoy the fact that she will not bend to stylizations of her voice. It is what it is. She can't do it all. But combine the right song, and the brilliant acoustic guitar here with her, and you will be transformed somehow. What a great work this is. They will be remembered! October 18, 2006

More reviews at Amazon.com ...