Reviews

Jesus Freak by D. Gilson, Will Stockton

thebobsphere's review

4.0

 Generally my favourite 33 1/3 books are the ones which tackle a topic, I would have never expected: The Celine Dion one is excellent, the Super Mario one is an oddity, now we have a Christian grunge album and it's a very good one.

The authors of the book delve into a discussion on the divide between Christian Contemporary Music, which did take it's cues from alt rock and the secular views of popular 90's indie groups. There's also some mentions of band who are open about their faith and allude to it in their songs (like U2 and belle and Sebastian) but still have a secular following. The book then goes into queerness and Christian Music and inner conflicts the authors felt.

Definitely an interesting and insightful read. Not the first time religion has been explored deeply in a 33 1/3 volume, but this could rank as one of my faves. 

stewreads's review

3.0

I was really excited to read about an album that shaped my musical identity, as a kid raised on Christianity and rock music. And to find an analysis written from a queer, ex-Christian perspective?? A dream come true. However, despite keeping my attention and bringing up a few interesting points, this book felt a bit too thesis-y for me, and at times the authors seemed to be reaching with some of the connections they made. I would have liked to hear more about the history of the album and its legacy and success, but this was fine too.