Invisible Empires

Behind singer/songwriter Sara Groves’ caressing, almost demure voice, there’s a keen intelligence and fierce moral courage that resonates throughout her music. Groves has a special talent for underscoring small intimations of grace that are often overlooked, even by believers. Tracks like “Obsolete,” “Precious Again,” and “Mystery” find her seeking a closer connection with God, sustained by well-contoured melodies and atmospheric pop/rock arrangements. “Eyes on the Prize” (a reworking of the spiritual associated with the Civil Rights movement) broadens the album’s scope by touching on themes of social justice, while “Without Love” looks at the false glories of the world from a compassionate Christian perspective. Groves is most powerful when she unflinchingly faces her own pride and weakness, as in “Right Now” and “Finite.” Steve Hindalong’s production uses keyboard washes, chiming guitars, and string accents to add color without overshadowing Grove’s vocals and piano.