Fiction Family is a venturesome collaboration between Christian rocker Switchfoot's Jon Foreman and Nickel Creek’s bluegrass artist Sean Watkins; their initial side project was a 2009 self-titled album. Fiction Family Reunion, their sophomore effort, features two new full-time members who previously toured with the group, delivering two distinctive lead artists offering their own unique blend of folk, pop, and song craft.
The record is marked by a sonic simplicity exemplified in “Up Against the Wall”—the group’s self-proclaimed attempt to import The Band’s “The Weight” into their own DNA. “Damaged” and “God Badge” offer thoughtful calls to authenticity, honesty, and intentional living. The former starts with a brutally honest line: “I’m damaged and I don’t want you to know/under bandages are wounds I’ll never show.”Meanwhile the latter elevates the challenge to love over the pride of being right. Fans will look for many more “Family” reunions to come. (Rock Ridge Music)
About the Author
Robert N. Hosack is Executive Editor for Baker Publishing Group, and he is a member of Church of the Servant CRC in Grand Rapids, Mich.