I’ve seldom (if ever) found an artist who invokes such a peacefulness as that captured by Josh Garrels. I can’t recall when I first heard him (I’d assume it was not long after the release of his 2011 album Love & War & the Sea Between), but I’ve been haunted ever since. I’m not an avid listener, but when I stumble upon his work on a whim (when I’m settling in with a cup of coffee for whatever work I’ve got planned), I’m swept into a calmness (with a touch of melancholy) that doesn’t come often.
Love & War is a favorite of mine. It contains some beautiful work. On more than one occasion, his song “Farther Along” has been a source of great comfort for me and the friends to whom I’ve recommended it in times of hurt (and I really recommend you listen to it when you get the time). I also love the song “Ulysses.”
But today, I’m struck by another of my favorites from the album, “Bread & Wine.” It’s a song written about discovering the true value of deep and meaningful friendship. We should all be so blessed as to get there, even if the getting takes some pain.
I really hope you listen and enjoy it. And maybe go check out some of his other stuff too (but Love & War & the Sea in Between is his best — you can stream it free if you have Amazon Prime, and it may be available elsewhere dirt cheap. He was giving it away when I picked it up). Lyrics are below.
I was wrong, everybody needs someone, to hold on.
Take my hand, I’ve been a lonesome man, took a while to understand.There’s some things we can’t live without,
A man’s so prone to doubt,
Faithful are the wounds of friends.
So give it just a little time,
Share some bread and wine
Weave your heart into mine,
My friend…Walls fall down, where there’s a peaceful sound, lonely souls hang around.
Don’t be shy, there’s nothing left to hide, come on let’s talk a while.Of the places we left behind,
No longer yours or mine
But we could build a good thing here too
So give it just a little time,
Share bread and wine
Weave your heart into mineIf I fall, I fall alone, but you can help to bear the load
A threefold chord is hard to break
And all I have I give to you if you will share your sorrow too,
Then joy will be the crown upon our heads
My friend…