Michael Knott L.S.U.

Item: Definitive Collection
Author: James Yusef Stewart

Definitive Collection

(1999)

Reviewed by James Yusef Stewart

Discogs YouTube

Label Alarma RecordsThe LighthouseUnsorted 1999

alternative rock gothic rock indie rock singer-songwriter

For years, Mike Knott has been known as something of a maverick, and some would even call him a genius. With his band of Lifesavers (under any of their names) or solo, he's recorded many classic, alternative Christian albums. His current release, is a "best of" collection, which covers a broad range, from the almost gothic synthesizer-touched work of the mid-'80s of albums like Shaded Pain, to the crafted, vibey alternative rock of his more recent work.

The harshest element of any Mike Knott's work has always been the reality he exposes with his lyrics. Often shaded in metaphor or wrapped up in casual observations of the characters he sees in his surroundings, Knott is one of the finest commentators involved in Christian music. It is difficult to give short quotes, particularly because Knott's songs are written as complete works and being taken out of context has often been a problem for him.

Sometimes reminiscent of the UK's Dan Donovan (i.e. Tribe of Dan as well as solo) in approach, Knott has a very specific fanbase. His music may be a little hard to penetrate for some, especially the vocalizations on some of the late-'80s material, nevertheless his versatility means that there will be something for most modern rock fans.

As such, Michael Knott and LSU: Definitive Collection is a relatively cohesive "best of" release. With Knott rumored to be on the edge of a new mainstream project, perhaps it's time that a new generation of Christian music fans is introduced to his music.