Over the weekend I had a chance to catch Esterlyn in concert. Before the concert began I talked to the guys and was really impressed. I gathered that even though their acoustic EP Mending the Meaning was released late digitally in 2008 fans were not going to get anything new this year. But Luke did report that the band will most certainly offer a sophomore album in 2010 that will have a more worship edge. I even asked Luke Caldwell the meaning of a line on his song “Free the Light”, ‘Christ’s blood was shed in despair’, because I was discussing the line with a NRT buddy a couple of months back. Caldwell’s answer came right out of scripture as he referenced Jesus’ painful time in the Garden of Gethsemane.
When the show began they were okay. I mean The Show (a young group of rockers) were okay. They poured out big punk rock tunes with blazing guitars and a big base which happened to be a little unnecessary since the café was not that huge. Although the lead singer’s voice wasn’t spectacular and the lyrics were lacking I was impressed at the maturity of the music and I particularly liked “the Africa Song.”
When Esterlyn took the stage they opened with their song guitar driven “Emptiness” which was excellent and employed a great light show with their lamps that were onstage. Immediately following that song was their single “We All Need” which was also well done. When the band actually introduced the band they spoke of the inspiration Matthew 5:16 (‘In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven’). The next song, the up tempo worship track “Like The Rain”, isn’t a particular favorite of mine but it was still a memorable tune.
The tone of the concert slowed down as Esterlyn started to sing more worship style music (perhaps a precursor to a future album?) and while the tune was simple, Caldwell’s lead vocals make the two songs soar. At the night began to dawn Esterlyn preformed the soft song “Sweet Love” which is off of their EP. Before closing out the show Esterlyn shared how they got their name and encouraged everyone to go and be a light to their friend and family. Before performing the piano driven acoustic song the band cautioned fans not to live for themselves but for God and others who are living in a dying world. I briefly talked to Luke on my way out and said I had my heart on them performing “Season of Grey.” He replied ‘ you should have said something. We would have played it for you. The next time you see us remind us.’
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