the innocence mission began as four friends who met during a Catholic high school production of the musical Godspell. Since their fortuitous parochial meeting, they have released five critically acclaimed albums: The Innocence Mission (A&M 1989), Umbrella (A&M 1991), Glow (A&M 1995), Birds Of My Neighborhood (RCA 1999), Small Planes (W.A.R. 2001) and befriended (Badman 2003). Although they remain friends, the one consistent incarnation of the innocence mission revolves around the inspired musical (and literal) marriage of guitarist Don Peris and his wife, vocalist/pianist Karen Peris.
Gorgeous and dreamy, this new offering from the innocence mission collects standards and traditional songs that singer Karen Peris has sung to her children as lullabies since they were born. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to organizations working to aid impoverished children throughout Africa.
"After hearing Bono speak this past May at my brother's college graduation about the plight of orphaned children in South Africa, our plans to make another benefit record were strengthened and propelled and we worked more quickly and spontaneously than usual. We recorded most of the songs over a three week period this summer, late at night, and it was really great fun. A lot of the singing was done live to Don's guitar playing. The spaciousness of the arrangements allowed for piano and pump organ and Mike's upright bass, " says Karen Peris.
Their last release, befriended, received critical acclaim including a 5 star review in Mojo and " #1 Album of the Year" by NPR reviewer Christian Brodal.