It is always interesting when "behind-the-scenes" contributors step into the spotlight in their own right and offer us the full extent of their artistic acumen and ability. We often notice their names in liner credits, and it is obvious that their selfless efforts make our favorites sound so good.
Such is the case with Pathway Through The Wilderness by John Andrew Schreiner. Schreiner's imprint and assistance has undergirded the work of numerous secular and contemporary Christian performers. Artists as diverse as Paula Abdul, Aretha Franklin, Crystal Lewis, and 2nd Chapter of Acts have sought his talent and expertise. Schreiner has served others in his craft in a variety of capacities-producer, writer, arranger, and musician. Pathway Through The Wilderness finally provides him an opportunity to flex his own creative wings and express his insight and ideas.
This debut solo recording is a concept album, drawn primarily from Scripture. It chronicles the journey of a believer from brokenness and despair on earth to wholeness and hope in heaven. It illustrates how those whose lives are ruined can know glory through God's grace and mercy.
Decidedly contemplative and meditative, Pathway Through The Wilderness utilizes both lyricized and instrumental songs to convey its message. For those who are familiar with Schreiner's previous work, it comes as no surprise that this album is predominantly keyboard-driven. However, the progressive, light jazz, and soft rock style of the melodies is unexpected. An apt stylistic comparison for Pathway Through The Wilderness is the work of Jeff Johnson. As projects like Songs From Albion and The Pilgrimage will attest, Johnson is a master of this kind of cutting-edge, story-telling sort of project. While Schreiner's effort is not as polished or cohesive as Johnson's, it is certainly similar in its ambition, approach, and evocative nature.
Two of the highlights are "Jealous Love" and "Let Light Shine." Taken from Song of Solomon, the former depicts God's vigilant and passionate love for us. The latter illuminates II Corinthians 4, and like the majority of the album's lyrics, it holds closely to its inspirational text:
Let light shine out of darkness For we have this treasure in earthen jars To show His all surpassing power Who makes His light shine in our hearts.
Putting Schreiner's narrative into words is Eddy Duhan, who is solely responsible for all the project's lyrics. Fleshing out his musical vision are David Raven (Swirling Eddies, Randy Stonehill Band, Mojo Monkies) on drums, Martin Resch and Randy Mitchell on guitars, and Tim Chandler (Choir, Daniel Amos) on bass. One of the only detractions to this album is Schreiner's limited vocal range. His quirky voice often lacks the emotional depth and vibrato that his story requires.
Overall, the project accomplishes its goal-it testifies to God's transforming power and provides visual and aural imagery of the journey of faith. Schreiner paints pictures of "each step on that pathway through the wilderness of trials, testing, and visitation." So if you're looking for an artist who is daring enough to venture off the "wide," tried-and-true road, who chooses instead the challenging passage of the "narrow way," then John Andrew Schreiner and his Pathway Through The Wilderness are for you.
Other coverage for this album
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