"…On my own these wings won't fly…" ~ Trouble Is, Jars of Clay

As Joe Porter, Aaron Sands, Dan Haseltine, Charlie Lowell, Stephen Mason, and Matt Odmark crossed the stage to begin the show, they were welcomed with not only the applause of being great musicians, but with much appreciation of who they were…who they are…and who they will become. These six gentlemen, deserved the exhilarated ovation given from their fans. As I said, not only because of their talents, but also because of the voyage of humility they strive to inhabit in. The journey they scale is not done alone and they openly acknowledge it.

Their latest album "Who We Are Instead" is a brilliant package composed with songs that uplift (Sunny Days), give freedom (Show You Love), comfort (Jesus' Blood Never Failed Me Yet) and shares about a Love who loves like no other (Jealous Kind). Hearing and seeing Jars of Clay in concert again was a thrill and I look forward to their next appearance. If you are the few that haven't seen them "live", then I highly recommend you do so.

Before the show…

As David (husband) and I approached Station 3:16 in Bakersfield, we encountered Didi, Marlo, Jen, and Jen's parents already standing in front of the venue. The time was between 1:30-2:00 when we arrived. The café part of Station 3:16 wasn't to open until 4:00 p.m., so Didi, Marlo, David, and I decided to get a bite to eat somewhere else and check into our hotel. It was so nice to meet up with the other Jarks again. The last time we got together was at the Roxy in Hollywood, California. We had such a great time and I knew that we were going to have a blast this time as well.

After settling in and getting a bite to eat, we headed back to Station 3:16. This time, there were people inside the café getting drinks and snacks. This was my first time at Station 3:16 and I must say that I enjoyed it. It wasn't a very big place, which made me care for it more. I personally fancy small venues rather than large.

A line formed outside for the concert, so Jen, Alyssa, Didi, and I decided to alternate in line because of the triple digit temperatures. Two of us stood inside while the other two went inside the cool air condition café.

Once they allowed us in we were able to make our way to the front of the stage on the left. It was a fairly dark inside but the excitement of the crowd was apparent. When Matt, Steve or one of the roadies came on stage to "tune" their instrument or to check on "some detail" they were met with great enthusiasm.

Meet the guys…

MATT
David and I had the privilege to meet Dan, Charlie, Steve, and Matt before the show. These four men are wonderful in their own unique way. Matt (I see as the more shy and quiet one in the band) came and said his "hellos" to us first. I'm fond of this guitar player's ability to speak through his instrument. He never ceases to amaze me when he's before a live audience. You can't help but allow the acoustic melody of the guitar to flow into you. Maybe it's how Matt gets into the groove of the music, which makes others want to participate along with him. It could be the way he sways his brown shaggy hair to the beat of the song, which makes people aware of the freedom they may have as well. Watching Matt strum his Taylor guitar on stage is enjoyable, simply because you feel his energy. The show in Bakersfield was no exception. Matt played his instrument as if they were one. Not only did he accompany the music with his guitar playing, but in addition, provided background vocals. This guy has flair in his guitar skills and as a person.

STEVE
As David and I were conversing with Matt, Steve soon followed to greet us. Steve (labeled the "funny guy" in the band) is a pure sweetheart. He's the type of guy who you could place in a room and will be able to converse with anyone he encounters. Playing instruments such as acoustic and electric guitar, mandolin, and vocal harmonizing are only few offerings he gives. Steve showed off his brilliant lap & pedal steel ability at the Bakersfield concert. The lap & pedal steel gives an incredible compliment to the songs "Amazing Grace" and "Lesser Things." Steve awed the crowd with his fantastic "jam solo" at the end of "Lesser Things" with that lap & pedal steel. Watching his right fingers move through those strings as his left hand slid the sliver bar appeared flawless to me. This gentleman has magnificent talent in the instruments he chooses to play. I must say that I particularly enjoy Steve's voice. Yes, many know about his great harmonies, which flavors the songs, but I've heard him sing solo before and marvel at this guys gifts.

DAN
After joking with Dan about me being the "unseen member" of the band, we moved our conversation to their latest work, which is the hymn album. Even though they're not finding much time in the studio right now (due to touring), they're still in high spirits about the 18th century hymn text work they are conquering. I eagerly await this fresh coming and am delighted to see what else is in store for them. Dan ( passionate, kind, intelligent etc. ) sang fabulous throughout the night of the Bakersfield show. They started off with "Trouble Is" and finished with "Show You Love." Dan's passion was evident with every song he sang. The crowd became more electrified while he crooned to the songs "I'm Alright" and "Revolution". Dan Haseltine has the capacity to extend the enjoyment that is happening on stage onto the crowd.

However, the zeal wasn't only obvious in the music. There is an organization called "Blood: Water Mission" that is founded by Jars of Clay. This mission is to educate people about HIV/AIDS that is spreading in Africa. Dan spoke about the passion they have to raise more of an awareness, to help fight this disease that has affected many in Africa. They also have a website called www.bloodwatermission.com in which people could find more information to help.

CHARLIE

Charlie, Charlie. Besides having the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen (Okay, enough with the eyes), Charlie is one charming fellow. This accordion and piano player has one of the most beautiful gifts. His talent is a marvelous asset to the band. The impressive notes that develop from his fingers are received with great pleasure in the ear of the listener. As Dan sang the seventh song for the night, "Jealous Kind", Charlie accompanied with his piano and brought lovely seasoning to the song. The soothe sound of each note played, somehow carried the lyrics with sweetness. Like Matt and Steve, Charlie added his background vocal talent to most of the songs.

The venue was filled with excitement as we sang along with every song. Jars of Clay did an excellent job (as usual) at Station 3:16. It was truly a delightful night especially with more songs from WWAI surfacing. Jars of Clay even gave us a pleasant surprise by playing their song "I'm In The Way" for their encore instead of "This Road". I don't think anyone was expecting that. If I'm not mistaken, this may have been the first time Jars of Clay performed that "live" It was wonderful.

Afterwards, they decided to do a signing for their fans. Aaron surprised many by being at the signing after the concert. It was nice to see him with the rest of the guys. He seemed to really enjoy chatting with the fans. They stayed until the last person in line got to say their "hellos" and "thank you's". I've enjoyed Jars of Clay for the longest time (since their debut album) and continue to love their songs. I'm excited in where they are at and what else is in store for them. I'm sure I speak for all of their fans. We appreciate your faithfulness and perseverance.

Set List

Trouble Is
Sunny Days
Love Song For A Savior
I Need You
Amazing Grace
Lesser Things
Jealous Kind
Fly
I'm Alright
Disappear
Flood
Revolution

Encore

I'm In The Way
Frail
Show You Love

*All photographs by Dyonne DeRuiter