White Flag

The third time is the charm for Shaun Groves on 2005’s White Flag. After two promising albums, the Texas-born Christian singer/songwriter makes a distinct leap forward on this release, blending a folk sensibility with elements of Brit-pop and hard rock. More significantly, he shows greater focus in his writing, creatively drawing upon Scripture for his themes. Groves has a playful side, expressed in the slightly punkish “What’s Wrong With This World” and the mock-macho “Crave.” He also reveals himself to be an unabashed idealist, as “Peace Has Broken Out” makes clear. The music shifts in tone and emphasis, veering from the somber, piano-based “Sad Song” to the uplifting “Only.” Groves’ shows an uncommon reach as a lyricist as well, balancing tales of desperation (“Heaven Hang On”) with expressions of forgiveness (“My Enemy”) and pure faith (“Narrow”). White Flag walks the line between the mainstream Christian popcraft of Bebo Norman and the more probing work of Derek Webb. The result promises even better things from this talented artist in the future.