Pedro the Lion frontman David Bazan has kind of made a name for himself by cussing. In particular it’s the juxtaposition of his Christian faith with his willingness to openly cuss that has brought an excessive amount of attention his way.

In the song “Foregone Conclusions” from the album Achilles Heel he sings:

“You were too busy steering the conversation toward the Lord
To hear the voice of the spirit begging you to shut the f— up
You thought it must be the devil trying to make you go astray
Besides, it could not have been the Lord
Because you don’t believe He talks that way”

Apparently David Bazan believes that the Lord does talk that way. I’ll be honest, I’m a little uncomfortable seeing those particular colors together on the same canvas. And it would be easier to forget the song if it wasn’t one of the catchiest pieces of music I’ve ever heard.

Although I’ve listened to other Pedro albums (mostly 2002’s “Control”), I’m relatively new to Bazan’s work. I couldn’t listen through “Control” more than once due to the overly depressed vocal delivery and the intentionally low production value. Production value is no impediment on “Achilles Heel” as Bazan’s syrupy vocals flow and drawl over a base of warm guitars and well placed percussion.

The aforementioned “Foregone Conclusions” has to be the sweetest piece of music and melody Bazan has ever produced even though the lyrics are as bitter and cynical as ever. Ignore the content of the lyrics and you almost have a feel-good summer hit.

I guess that’s one of the things that makes the man compelling. Paradox is his bread and butter – cussing with Christianity; sweet melodies with bitter words. His popularity doesn’t ride on paradox alone, there is genuine talent in both vocal and instrumental delivery as well. He’s blessed with a voice that is unique, recognizable, and versatile enough, and musical skill both natural and worked-for.

I’m giving this album more than a few spins. It could be the one that unlocks my understanding of his previous work – and that’s usually a good thing.

Click here to listen to samples of the album at Amazon.

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Michael Krahn (michael.krahn@gmail.com) is a husband, father, Pastor, writer, and recording artist who enjoys books, theology, technology and the Ottawa Senators.
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