“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” (Luke 15: 20b, ESV)
The parable of the prodigal son is such a emotionally stirring explanation of the love that a father has for his children. When extrapolated further, it becomes a compelling reminder of the love God the Father has for us, His adopted children.
Hailing from Minnesota, Kaboose offers a new twist on this popular parable with “Excuse Me,” the title track for his label debut album for Syntax Records. While not the entire message, the song’s narrative describes a young man hesitant to take a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (in this case, to dance with an attractive girl) before that opportunity seeks him out as love always does.
Beyond the title track, which actually closes the album’s session, Excuse Me offers listeners a whole lot to dig into and bug out to. The album opens with the boom-bap of “It Went This Way” and lyrics that serve as a brief autobiography, paving the way for a lyrically personal journey along an audibly appealing path.
Kaboose weaves pieces of his life throughout each of the fifteen tracks and as the album unfolds, it at times feels as if the listener is engaged in a personal conversation. Tracks such as “Goin’ Outta Control” and “The Land of Lakes” offer listeners a glimpse of the life Kaboose has led up to this point while “Give You” and “Wood Worker” make it clear, that his ambitions are to fulfill the purpose instilled within him by God. The album also addresses such topics as reconciliation, encouragement, seeking God’s will, commitment, and more.
The soundtrack keeps the album rolling along so smoothly that the fifty-five minutes of airplay seem to pass in less than half that time. Marked by excellent production, intricate beats and top shelf DJ cuts, the album offers listeners a glimpse at the talent and commitment to excellence shared by Kaboose and Syntax Records. The compositions manage to balance the themes and emotions of each song while keeping listeners hanging on each beat, eagerly anticipating the next turn.
Overall, the album serves as a solid platform for Kaboose to take his already storied indie career to the next level. Hopefully, with enough attention and a big enough push, this message and this album will find its way to the masses.
For fans of: Braille, Scribbling Idiots
