AMG Review of Light of Things Hoped For

Johnny Loftus
All Music Guide

The Light of Things Hoped For is the second release from Five Iron Frenzy side project Brave Saint Saturn. While the band's assertion that they are the founders of "astro rock" is misguided (Man or Astro-man?, not to mention Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet, would have a valid beef), their fascination with the genre is admirable. As they did with 2000's So Far From Home, BSS peppers Light of Things Hoped For with eerie sound samples describing moon landings, galaxies, and more. (Again, Man or Astro-man? should be receiving royalties). Guitarist/vocalist Reese Roper's lyrics also dwell on recurring themes of personal loss and yearning for signs from above, whether it be from the stars or the heavens. Like many alternative pop/rock groups who record for the Tooth & Nail label, Brave Saint Saturn is overt about their Christian values. But in keeping with the trend, they don't necessarily preach on record as much as they espouse a faith-driven lifestyle. BSS' agenda is much easier to swallow than, say, Carman's, especially because Light of Things Hoped For is a universe of soaring vocal harmonies and sugary pop hooks.