It's not a household name in the world of Christian music, but Salt of the Sound is taking every opportunity to present new and quality music as often as it can. Whether it's a single, a three- or four-song EP, or a proper full-length, the prolific duo drops new music several times each year. Their latest offering is a Christmas EP called And on Earth, Peace.

If you're familiar with Salt of the Sound, then the sound of this EP will come as no surprise to you. If this is your first experience with them, however, you might be taken aback by it. Salt of the Sound is known for long, drawn-out, ethereal pieces with the most minimal of percussion designed as background music for rest and even prayer time. And on Earth, Peace follows suit, with lovely synth and piano that makes you feel like you're staring out over a valley completely blanketed in snow with not a care in the world. There are soft vocals singing about the birth of Christ, and even a couple of more familiar Christmas carols, like "O Holy Night" and "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus." But a lot of the singing seems like an accent more than the centerpiece, as if the goal is to bring you into a meditative state, but then remind you of the goodness of God and His wonderful plan of salvation.

Not knowing what to expect going into this EP, my first listen was a bit underwhelmed. But after a bit of familiarization with Salt of the Sound's other music and finding out who they are and what they do as musicians, And on Earth, Peace quickly grew on me. This isn't something to put on if you want to sing Christmas carols. But if you want a soundtrack while taking some time out of your busy day to reflect on Jesus, this is a great choice.

- Review date: 11/26/19, written by Scott Fryberger of Jesusfreakhideout.com

 

 

 Record Label: Echoes Blue Music
 Album length: 7 tracks: 22 minutes, 41 seconds
 Street Date: November 8, 2019
 Buy It: iTunes
 Buy It: Amazon Music
 Buy It: Bandcamp

1. Gabriel's Message (1:22)
2. Coventry Carol (3:11)
3. Star of Wonder (Gloria) [feat. Dear Gravity] (4:10)
4. O Holy Night (4:18)
5. Radiance (1:30)
6. Come To Us (Abide) (4:28)
7. Come Thou Long Expected Jesus (3:42)