The term “Christian” music is indeed a broad one. It can encompass people who are Christians but do not make “explicitly Christian” music, it can incorporate those who make their beliefs known with a megaphone and it can also cover many artists who more quietly weave the strand of faith through their music. For example, Karen Peris, the singer, chief lyricist and along with husband Don Peris, the core of the band The Innocence Mission has written songs for Amy Grant, who is widely accepted in “Christian Music” circles (divorce excluded for the present conversation) and yet her own band, The Innocence Mission, rarely makes explicit statements about their faith; and yet it is always present.

The latest outing from ther Perises, weaves together a tapestry as multicolored as life itself. The album’s lyrics focus on the unity of mankind, the death of and life with loved ones. Though elements of faith are certainly present, this is not an overtly “Christian” album. Faith is there with eyes to see, but it certainly won’t hit you like a neon sign.

The band has been together for nearly 20 years and have tourned with, among others, Natalie Merchant, Joni Mitchell, Emmylou Harris and 16 Horsepower. For all their individuality, The Innocence Mission also fits very comfortably alongside all of these acts. The band has gained an intense following playing sparse melodies centered around Don Peris’ gentle pluckings and Karen’s vocals and this ablum is no different.

The band centers itself squarely in the contemporary folk movement, drawing heavily from elements including Appalachian folk and gospel hymns and even hints of bossa nova. Yet everything remains sparse, centered around the vocals. In fact, we don’t even hear any drums until the end of the fourth track. The lilting electric guitar lines of “Lake Shore Drive” perfectly compliment Karen’s soaring vocals. The band has perfected this sparse beauty and created a space in which every sound is necessary and effective.

The album’s opening track “The Brotherhood of Man” focuses on the connectedness of all people, including strangers, and this sense of familial bond continues throughout the entire album. Karen sings of her sister’s return from Ireland, her love for her husband and the loss of her father. There is a sense of joyful melancholy thorughout, upheld by the bonds of love.

Those who believe Christians can only listen to “explicitly Christian” music will not find much to hang on to here. The band’s Christ is My Hope album would be a much better place to start. However, those who desire artists pursuing the everyday exploration of Truth and Beauty will find much beautiful music.

• Read Pitchfork’s review of the album
• Visit the band’s official website
• Listen to the band for yourself
• Download the song “Lakes of Canada”
• Download the song “Happy Birthday”
• Download the band’s music from eMusic