Independent
Release Date: September 20th / October 18th 2019
Reviewed by: Joshua Andre
John Tibbs– Wild Things / Details (Single) (Amazon mp3/iTunes) (Amazon mp3/iTunes)
Track Listing:
- Wild Things / Details
Famous, well known and respected for his cover of the Erik Nieder hit single “Dead Man Walking”, John Tibbs, who previously was signed to Fair Trade Services a few years ago, released his brand new EP Heartland in 2017 (which you can read a review of here!)- and is an EP that is sure to inspire and encourage, as we remember that God is a God who won’t ever let us go, regardless of whether we think He should or not. John released the album through Pledgemusic as a platform, and John’s sophomore project was quite compelling, comforting and confronting, while all the while enjoyable as well. With John also dropping the cover of Maren Morris’ “Dear Hate” last year, as well as a re-recording of “How Deep The Father’s Love For Us”; the singer/songwriter and Americana/folksy artist has unveiled two more soon-to-be fan favourites, as he continues to explore the world we live in and examine the human condition.
Armed with a vibrant acoustic guitar and a distinct vocal akin to Aaron Gillespie, Bear from Needtobreathe and John Mayer, we are first presented with the jovial “Wild Things”, as John poses the question, asking whether God created us to be ‘wild things’ or not. Subtly taking a jab at the concept of us not taking enough risks and living a safe life, John encourages us to lean into God’s direction, even if it’s the least popular and the one that makes us the most uncomfortable! While the 80’s themed rock tune “Details” dives more into questions and a philosophical/existential crisis with John continually asking questions of God, without necessarily giving us any answers. Later on her determines that it is in the details of life itself that we can see God, but overall the musicality of this track paints a very sombre mood.
A couple of years ago, John Tibbs’ debut full length album certainly lived up to the expectations placed upon it by the impressive EP in 2015, and last year, Heartland definitely exceeded my expectations as well. Now this year with John’s two new original singles, John’s stature as a formidable artist in today’s society is cemented. Definitely having me eager in anticipation for John’s future projects, be it more singles or EP’s or full-length albums- John’s presence and exposure to the CCM market this upcoming year is sure to be a good thing indeed, as he ministers to Christians and non-Christians alike with his honesty and relatable lyrics. So, are you intrigued by how “Details” and “Wild Things” sound like? I would definitely encourage you to check out John’s music, as these are some of the most personal and emotional songs I have heard in a long time!
Score: 4/5
RIYL: Kutless, Jeremy Camp, Matthew West, Jason Gray, Andrew Peterson