Album Reviews
Movie Reviews
Concert Reviews

Top 10
Resources
Time Wasters
Contact Us

Sara Groves has made a habit of taking inspiration from those in her immediate circle.  _Add to the Beauty_ draws on the experiences of her grandparents, who habitually visit prisoners, a friend who has contributed greatly to the rebirth of the Rwandan economy, and a couple who repaired their marriage after all was thought lost.  This circle of spiritual friends and family have helped to spur on Add to the Beauty, which longtime Groves fan will likely perceive as a return to the style of previous discs such as Conversations, perhaps her career highlight.
 
This is almost a concept disc, full of stories about those who do what the title suggest, living out their Christianity, and attempting to shine a light in the world, rather than curse the darkness.  Still other tunes are a plaintive wish for the rest of us to "get it" and join those efforts.  "When it Was Over" paints a picture of a broken marriage, and love ultimately revealing what it could do even in the worst of situations.  "You Are the Sun" reminds us that it is impossible to add anything good to the world without reflecting Christ.  The latter showcases Groves' vocals, which can best be described as Miranda Stone meets Shawn Colvin. 
 
"Just Showed Up," co-written with Joel Hanson (PFR), is more upbeat, yet demands that we live our lives fully, without 'just showing up'.  "Loving a Person" is about the need to love the unlovely, and therefore follow Christ's command to love one another. "Why It Matters" was inspired by a conversation Groves had with Charlie Peacock, wondering whether her career choice meant something or not.  
 
"It's Going to be Alright" is described as an "adult lullaby," and is offered as a comfort in trying times.  "Something Changed" could be a response to a song Groves did on _The Other Side of Something_ called "Like a Skin," and realizes that healing has taken place, even before the heart was aware of it.
 
_Add to the Beauty_ is the most piano driven Groves album to date.  Produced by Brown Bannister, and featuring veterans like Gordon Kennedy, Scott Dente, and Jerry McPherson, it is a perfect blend of musicians and vocals, one never overshadowing the other.  The title itself is not only a suggestion, but a wish and demand for the listener to obey the commands of Christ.  Or as Rich Mullins once said, "I am not sure we need to have a Heaven here on Earth, but I am positive we do not need to have a Hell here on Earth."  This album offers hope, and celebrates those who would do what the title says: Add to the Beauty. I will renew my call here for Sara Groves (and Derek Webb, for that matter) to be included in next year's Cornerstone Festival, preferably on the Gallery Stage.  This is simply a wonderful album. 
 
Brian A. Smith
10 September 2005