Although James wrote and recorded much of this album in early 1992, a great deal of it stands true today. Songs like "The Covenant" could have been written about the events of the past three years, as we watch the integrity of our leaders being sold off to the highest bidders as we all look off at the latest media distraction.

"So we look the other way, as we pretend that we don't notice that the flock has gone astray....fed on style not on substance...just more money over justice."

While the music is far from angry, there is no loss of urgency. A song like "Out Of Time" (written during the Rodney King Riots) may be carried on a strong melody, but the message it conveys remains a potent one. As with all great songwriters, Stanley also recognizes the tiny margin between the political and the personal. The lovely a capella "Flowers For The Living" is a poignant reminder that love exists in the present tense, as a reminder that those who stand next to you require our attention every day. "The Envoy" delivers its message divinely, and is one of many fine albums from James Lee Stanley.