Rachael Petit (http://www.rachaelpetit.com) is a poet. In the world of Christian contemporary music, there are a vast number who either believe that they are poets or are seeking to become one. Petit, on the other hand, is the real deal. Even the title of her album, "Wilted Flowers," unveils a poet's ear.
Petit has a pretty voice; there's no doubt about it. Her vocals convey the emotions in her lyrics with a summer afternoon glow. But the depth in her words is what makes "Wilted Flowers" such a success. "I'm finding joy in the arms that carry me/And when I have lost control/I can just breathe into You," she sings on "I Can Just." The "You" is capitalized for a reason. Petit is singing about God. But her perspective is different from many other Christian artists. It doesn't seem like she has found her footing after falling into life's various traps; she is continuing to struggle with personal demons. "As the flood whirls around me/Tossing me with the tide," she narrates on "Lift Me," describing getting lost in emotional confusion.
|
The music is a combination of slow acoustic numbers and upbeat pop/rock tunes with an alternative feel. On "Letters," Petit's words and sounds find their most explosive moment, a confident, highly melodic track that is actually a missive to the Lord. Petit is searching for spiritual salvation; she knows she'll acquire it but her mind is filled with disappointment from past experiences. In "Letters" Petit finds God while pining for love; in the end she is fulfilled, and it's an exhilarating conclusion to a song that builds up speed and feeling.
"Wilted Flowers" is a Christian album that is firmly grounded in reality yet finds inspiration in the heavens above.
|
