In a bold new rock opera highlighting the life, imprisonment, and execution of John the Baptist, Valley of Salt has woven a narrative album aptly titled Voice of One Crying in the Wilderness: The Story of John the Baptist, set to release February 3rd, 2025.
Much like Jesus Christ Superstar challenged the boundaries of traditional storytelling, Valley of Salt’s album aims to take listeners on a transformative journey through intricate melodies, soaring vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics. It grapples with existential questions and seeks redemption amidst a cacophony of doubt and disillusionment.
Under Marty Willson-Piper’s production, the 10-track album was recorded in Texas with members of Polyphonic Spree, the Dallas Symphony, gospel singers, and a myriad of other talented musicians. The album invites audiences to follow the protagonist’s quest for self-discovery and enlightenment, resonating with timeless themes of hope, faith, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
The visionary behind Valley of Salt is Brian Stemetzki, and together with his ensemble of talent, the album offers a distinct heartland quality that enhances the narrative.
Kicking off the album is “The Love of God Is All Around Us,” which delivers an up-tempo galloping rhythm, featuring organ, a melodic bassline, and a clear, overdriven guitar that sets the tone for the rest of the opera. Halfway through, the song transforms into a laid back, strolling rhythm, as if the listener is making their way through the wilderness to witness the advent of John the Baptist’s birth.
“Don’t Be Afraid” tells the story of said birth through a dialogue between his mother, Elizabeth, his father, Zechariah, and an angel. The angel reassures them that a son will be given to them: “Don’t be afraid now / Your prayer’s been heard,” to which they reply and are answered: “How will I know this? / His name is John.” The track uses the chiming of bells to signify important moments in John’s life, a motif that is carried throughout the album.
Another notable track, “He Walks,” recounts the first meeting of John and Jesus, setting it at the end of a long journey. A slightly overdriven Rhodes plunks out a walking bassline to evoke John’s wandering in the wilderness. As the song picks up, the bass turns to more of a gallop. “This is the one I’ve dreamed about / This is the one that saves the world,” Stemetzki sings as John the Baptist, as he lays his eyes on Jesus, accompanied by bells, harmonized guitars, and piano.
Wrapping up the unique concept album is “Receive You,” which offers a delightful twang and gospel fusion. The track begins with an almost bluegrass feel, with banjo and drums plucking out a familiar and welcoming rhythm. This quickly shifts to a gospel groove, complete with backing choir. The instruments used throughout the album join one by one, driving the core message home: “Seek and you will find it / Love and you will feel it / and I will be with you.”
The creating of Voice of One Crying in the Wilderness is a lifelong dream of Stemetzki’s, and in less than a month, that dream will be a reality.
