Haven
Age of Darkness
Reviewed by Phil Sterling
If you've ever wondered what was new and good while at your favorite Christian bookstore, you must look no further than the latest effort by Haven. The "Age Of Darkness" title not only emphasizes the musical contents, but the front cover artwork tells you that this is a warning album in the best sense of the Word, complete with the moon turning red and the sundial almost at 12, yet the sky is dark. Revelation Chapters 4-22 is recommended if you don't understand the prophecy connection. Yet the real warning comes from the urgent messages the band wants to tell you. And there's not much time left! Don't be fooled by the first song. Mellow gives way to a Metal message the likes of which we haven't heard since "Your Dying Day". While the typical Christian Rock/Metal band tends to get caught in a lyrical trap of meaningless repetitions, Haven once again warns us about the deepest, and sometimes subtle efforts of Satan and his traps. A subject that isn't mentioned much is driven home in songs like "Divination", "Witching Hour" and "Seance", which is that the occultic power of darkness is real! "Holy" and "Unchanging Love" reminds us in the simplest terms that we all need God in our lives, no matter who we are or what we have done. "When You Said Goodbye" and "Blood Of The Lamb" encourages us to expect the kingdom when we live for Jesus! Metal radio picks include "Divination" and "Unchanging Love". Rockers will be cuing up "When You Said Goodbye", and even CHR radio will be enjoying "Spend My Life With You". Metal-mixed messages that make a difference!