Some of the best art is made through struggle. The creative process can help make sense of the reality the artist is dealing with. After reading about Justin John Scheck and listening to his album The Sparrow’s Morning War Cry you get a clear sense that making music is a vessel for him to make sense of the ineffable.
From the electronica-drenched shadows of “The Sparrows Dreams (Remix) Explicit” to the towering ascent of “Rebirth (But You) (Remix),” Scheck weaves genres that defy clear categorization, capturing untamed emotions that resist conventional boundaries. Scheck’s lyrical writing leans towards the poetic, evoking a sense of profundity with religious undertones. Take for example, “My life’s an afterthought. I lost it In a dream. There’s nothing held down. It’s never what it seems” from the song “The Sea Is Red (Remix)”.
Clocking in at just over two minutes, “Of Us From Us (Remix)” acts as an atmospheric interlude, its haunting and ominous texture accompanied by intriguing percussive elements. The opening lines of “It’s A Cryin’ Shame (Remix)” set the stage for a musical exploration infused with wailing guitars, organic percussion, and Scheck’s most expressive vocals, declaring, “Well, bear my witness, the river turns to falls, I struggled with it, Life is nothing but a fall.”
The unpredictability of “Out Of Sorts (Remix)” encompasses changes in tempo, energy, and a kaleidoscope of textures and tones. The vocal interplay against the music is a highlight, showcasing Scheck’s willingness to explore distortion and feedback. Tracks like “She Said (Remix)” and “My Soul (Remix)” delve into dark subterranean soundscapes, featuring another exceptional vocal performance from Scheck.
In a world aligned with artistic merit, Scheck would undoubtedly be a household name. His work transcends the commonplace you hear on the Billboard charts, offering a unique and emotional experience far removed from the mainstream. It’s time to spread the word—listen and share this remarkable musical exploration.