Arthur Alligood is the driving force behind Trees and Chaff. He composed all of the songs; sang; played guitar, piano and some minor percussion; and shot all of the photos used in the cover art. An indie songwriter in the vein of Todd Snider or Adam Duritz (Counting Crows), his lyrics point out different aspects of God and the people who labor to follow Him.
"Still Reads the Same" is performed a cappella and reminds us that everything in life is in a constant state of flux, with one exception: Christ, that fact wherein the author's hope lies.
Some things change and some things stay
But the sign above His Head still reads the same
Even Pilate knew the answer to "What is truth?"
'Cause the sign above His head still reads the same.
"Taken Off the Market" deals with Christ's purchase of salvation for those who follow Him. "Sheriff" is a vignette concerning sin and guilt, and sums up the idea of Romans 3:23 in a three-minute sermon illustration. "Everyday Q & A," a Counting Crows-like tune, is a response to those who would ask what is different about Christians. "Living Martyrs" reveals the joy in serving Christ.
Make sure you listen to this disc to its completion--lots of material is uncredited. While a little too lo fi for my taste, CD02 is a fine effort lyrically--Alligood has a clear picture of what he wants to say and why, and his conviction rings true.
4 tocks
