This installment in Sony's excellent ESSENTIAL compilation series draws from the 1995 to 2007 recordings of the popular Christian alternative-rock act Jars of Clay. Led by amiable frontman Dan Haseltine, the Illinois-based quartet managed to ... Full Descriptionachieve crossover pop success in the mid-'90s--particularly with the urgent, folk-tinged "Flood"--a feat uncommon at the time. Along with that track, other highlights of this well-selected two-disc set include the soaring "God Will Lift Up Your Head" and the New Wave-tinged "Dead Man (Carry Me)," songs that showcase both the group's versatility and knack for casting spiritual themes in catchy pop/rock arrangements. As a band overview, THE ESSENTIAL JARS OF CLAY eclipses the previously issued FURTHERMORE, and makes for an ideal introduction to the revered CCM ensemble.