Although The Face of Change may be an unfamiliar name to many, this acoustically-driven modern rock band has been active in the North Carolina indie scene since 1991, when the quartet formed at Wake Forest University. Popular with fans and critics alike, TFOC has shared stage space with other acclaimed regional bands, such as Dillon Fence and Aquarium Rescue Unit. Three years after their first CD release, The Hour of War, The Face of Change returns with this eight-song venture, entitled Coffee.
Don't be fooled by the "acoustic" description; this is not standard-issue folk/rock music. TFOC blends a variety of musical ingredients, including varied rhythmic textures a la Peter Gabriel, danceable grooves in the vein of Raspberry Jam, piano, and a string accompaniment that falls somewhere between country fiddle and classical violin.
Singer-songwriter Mike Ramsey presents his songs with a unique vocal style, sounding somewhat like a deeper-voiced Adam Duritz (Counting Crows). Although Ramsey's voice may be an acquired taste, he ably conveys a wide range of emotion with croaky near-whispers, a strong melodic delivery, and just about anything else in between.
TFOC describes Coffee as
"a progression from Despair to Hope and beyond, to a place where despair is a crucible in the hands of the Creator, and "The Paths of the Dead" [one of the album's songs-Ed.] is the path to glory."
Coffee could very well be called a concept album; the synergism of music, lyric, and idea found therein is one of TFOC's notable strengths. From the anguished lyrics and vocal delivery of "Despair" to the contemplative "Bright Wings," to the joyous, Celtic-tinged "Moor Song," this record takes the listener on a musical, intellectual, and spiritual journey. It's a journey through despondency, defeat, triumph, and hope.
Ramsey's lyrics are outstanding; they are poetic and complex. It comes as no surprise to find that these lyrics are similar to the poems of Gerard Manley Hopkins, the album's primary lyrical influence. A segment from "The Paths of the Dead" perhaps best captures the essence of this album-the human struggle between clutching to selfish despair and letting the grace of God overcome:
If I ever fall, when I hit the ground I'll call out your name And curse in the same breath my love, Pulling me under.
The Face of Change does not deal with fluffy, feel-good emotions in either lyrics or music. Rather, the band encourages the listener to think and be alert through complex ideas and musical diversity. Appropriately enough, this album lives up to its name-like a cup of good joe, Coffee is bittersweet and strong.
