Singing Promises Through Pain | Posted March-01-2017
There are few Christian music fans who aren't familiar with Darlene Zschech's music and longtime ministry. First as part of Hillsong and now with her solo work, the renowned worship leader has been making music for the church for over two decades. Most known for her hit chorus "Shout To The Lord," Darlene has undeniably had a successful career so far, but she isn't showing signs of slowing down anytime soon.
When Darlene was handed a shocking breast cancer diagnosis in 2014, her life was changed but her belief in God stayed steady. Recorded live with her team at Hope Unlimited Church in Australia, Here I Am Send Me is the first new album since that diagnosis, chronicling her journey with cancer (which is now in remission). Many of the songs were written during the most challenging season of her life. Darlene recalls that when she was at her sickest, Martin Smith (of Delirious?) flew over to visit and encourage her and her husband. When he asked what she wanted to say while writing songs about this season, her answer was simple and quick: she only wanted to say "He is great." Through pain and disease and some of the hardest days of her life, this album took shape as Darlene set out to tell the world of that unchanging greatness.
Serving as the powerful declaration of that message, the album opens with "You Are Great" (co-written with Smith), a moment where you can hear the emotion in Darlene's voice as she sings about His unfailing goodness even through her suffering. Worship-focused track "You Will Be Praised" continues the theme of singing His promises into the darkness: "Though I walk through darkest valleys, there's no fear for You are with me."
Darlene's elegant vocals shine on standout track "Daylight," much like on "Kingdom Come," a spin-off of a vital line in The Lord's Prayer. Fans of music from the likes of Hillsong Young & Free will appreciate "First Love," a lively time of praise that is sure to have you up and dancing along.
Co-written by Darlene's teenage daughter, acoustic "Love And Wonder" is a short track (clocking in at only 1:33), but nonetheless is a powerful moment with its beautiful harmony and lyrical praise. Singing more proclamation of who He is, "Emmanuel" worships Christ for His faithful companionship: "There's no one like Jesus / meets me in my sadness, walks with me through fire / there's no one like Jesus, calming every storm." Modern hymn "Beloved (When I Survey)" plays off the classic hymn as members of Darlene's church join her in leading the song. Pushing the message of the Great Commission with songs of surrender, the title track "Here I Am" and upbeat "Go" close out the album.
The Bottom Line: This may be Darlene's first album since 2013, but the quality of music is better than ever. From the first track to the last, Here I Am Send Me is overflowing with passionate songs of praise, singing His promises through her own pain, all carried by the soft yet bold voice that has led millions into the presence of God. Intimate moments of worship meet with energetic declarations of His glory and greatness on this album, more than accomplishing the mission Darlene set for this project in the beginning: to tell the world that He is great.
Just Getting Started | Posted March-01-2017
For worship leader Jason Bare, music is much more than just a song. The singer/songwriter has dedicated much of his life to leading crowds in genuine, heartfelt worship that always puts the focus on Christ. Now advancing his career in the Christian music industry, Jason has shared the stage with artists such as Big Daddy Weave, Natalie Grant, Switchfoot and more as his previous releases made waves at radio and with fans.
Early in 2016, Jason signed a deal with Vital Records Group/Daywind Publishing to release two projects. The first of those, Christmas EP Night Of Wonder, was available in December and proved that Jason's artistry is growing abundantly with each new release. The second of those projects, the full-length record Fearless, releases this week, featuring several guest appearances and showcasing more of the artist development that establishes Jason as a greatly underrated artist in the contemporary worship genre.
High-energy "Following You" opens the album and gives listeners a perfect example of Bare's sonic style: praise and pop meeting in a well-crafted way that fits both AC radio and congregational worship. In the same vein, title track "Fearless" follows with its upbeat, Scripture-saturated message of praise for the confidence we have through Christ because of who He is. Powerful "Bring Down The Heavens" is an invitation and longing for the Spirit of Christ to abide, lyrically similar to "Miracles Happen Here," which calls on God to show up and do impossible things.
Featuring Amy Perry of Selah, slower acoustic track "You Are" is a definite highlight on the album as Jason and Amy's vocals work together flawlessly to remind listeners of who He says we are. The first radio single from the album, "On This I Stand," comes next and proves to be yet another strong moment of lively praise for the firm foundation we have: "On this I stand / You are the everlasting, never-ending, Holy, great I Am / on this I stand." "Wildfire (feat. Anna Byrd)" keeps the tempo up as the two voices mesh well to sing in response to the wild and fierce love of Jesus.
On the more worshipful side of the album, "Mighty Redeemer" is a bold declaration of the redemption Christ has in store: "No fear or failure is greater than Your promise that You will make things right / all things will reveal Your glory." Another of my favorite standout moments, "In The Silence," features American Idol alumni Jeremy Rosado's smooth, soulful vocals in addition to deep lyrics of faith even in the hard places of life: "You are always good / You are always true / oh, I worship You." Featuring Fearless Tour guest artists Jake & Laura, "King Of Forever" continues to proclaim the unchanging character of Jesus, much like piano-led "Great Is Your Name." Bringing things back up-tempo, the album comes to a close with "Only Getting Started" as Jason sings of the endless power and greatness of our God.
The Bottom Line: If you're a fan of worship music (and even if you're not!), Fearless is an album you need to hear. While Jason Bare likely isn't a super familiar name to you yet, this album is genuine, quality music where worship and praise meet AC and pop, creating songs that any listener can appreciate. With Bare's raw and sincere vocals carrying each track, the whole album feels personal as you can hear his passion for leading people into the presence of God in every line. Fearless displays the worshipper's heart and talent, with his ever-evolving sound and continually-growing artistry proving that Jason is just getting started.
An Iconic Voice, A Remarkable Gospel Album | Posted February-16-2017
No matter what genre you prefer, chances are the name Reba McEntire is one you're familiar with. The iconic country music superstar has been in music for decades with hit after hit topping the charts. Add in major awards and accolades, a long-running popular television show and much more packed into her powerhouse career, and it's clear that Reba is one of the most legendary and successful voices of our time. Now with her first ever gospel album, a two-disc collection of songs containing both favorite classic hymns and new contemporary tunes, Reba is putting the faith that's always been part of her life at the forefront of her music.
"I've been wanting to do a gospel album forever," she says of recording Sing It Now: Songs Of Faith & Hope. A perfect pairing of both old and new, Reba says the 20 track offering "connects the dots between the traditional hymns I grew up on and new music that has been uplifting for me in challenging times."
Disc One:
The first half of Sing It Now gathers a strong bunch of timeless hymns and church favorites, beginning with Reba's beautifully arranged rendition of "Jesus Loves Me." The icon's distinguished vocals are put on display well with the gospel-tinted "Oh How I Love Jesus," much like peppy "Oh Happy Day," which plays on her signature vocal techniques.
Classic hymns "Amazing Grace," "I'll Fly Away" and "In The Garden" of course make an appearance here, but don't underestimate them--these songs are anything but standard when you have Reba's gentle yet striking voice leading them. Highlights on this half of the album include "Softly And Tenderly," a collaboration with dynamic vocalists Trisha Yearwood and Kelly Clarkson, and Reba's emotional version of the ageless "How Great Thou Art."
Disc Two:
The second half of Sing It Now features a more contemporary feel and kicks off with the title track, which is hands-down the highlight of the whole album. The hope-filled anthem is a powerful moment that finds Reba recounting the memories of singing old hymns when she was younger, only to find herself in hard times now and still choosing to sing those words of faith when things get difficult. Co-written by Dove-Award-winning producer Michael Farren, this one is a lyrical gem: "Who He was is who He is beyond a shadow of a doubt / I might be standing in this darkness with trouble all around / but if I could sing it then, I can still sing it now."
Showing off her country roots, "Angels Singing" and "Angel On My Shoulder" bring the familiar Reba sound fans have enjoyed for years into Sing It Now. Another southern infused track, "God And My Girlfriends" is a thoughtful tribute that speaks to the faithfulness of Reba's friends and Jesus in every season of her life. "Hallelujah Amen," a catchy and well-produced high point on the album, gives praise to God for both the sorrows and joys in life, sonically similar in ways to "I Got The Lord On My Side," the most overtly country-music-influenced track on the album, written by McEntire and her mother.
Her bold faith leads the way on the powerful first single "Back To God," as well as her cover of Lee Ann Womack's moving "There Is A God," an account of the proof that surrounds His existence. Closing out the album are vulnerable "From The Inside Out" and emotional "Say A Prayer," both of which display Reba's versatile vocal skills in remarkable ways.
The Bottom Line:
Most everyone who knows anything about Reba will quickly agree with me when I say that she is no doubt a legend, but my respect for her has grown tremendously while listening to these songs because of the genuine heart and talent in each track. Incredible production, quality songwriting and beautiful covers all matched with that iconic voice seem to be quite the combination to create an unforgettable album. In a season where we're seeing more and more mainstream and country artists make faith a priority in their music, with Sing It Now Reba sets the bar high for how to make a quality gospel record.
Fresh Worship From Rock Genre Veterans | Posted February-03-2017
Though Kat & Jared will be a new duo to most fans, they are far from new to the music industry. Jared Hartmann, founding member and former guitarist for Flyleaf, and his wife Kat spent the first nine years of their married life on the road seeing thousands of lives changed by the Gospel through music. Following Jared's departure from the platinum-selling rock band, Kat and Jared are now worship leaders at Bethel Church in Temple, Texas, where they are passionate about helping people discover that true life comes from spending time in the presence of God.
Their first project as a duo, the self-titled EP, introduces fans to their new sound with five worship tracks. "We really feel like God gave us these songs, like this is the time for us to release these songs," Jared says of the EP.
Bringing a bit of their accustomed rock sound into some new worship tunes, "We Adore You" is an upbeat anthem of praise that begins the album with plenty of energy: "You can have it all / we just love to worship You / and as we sing, You respond to us." Guitar-driven "Hallelujah" once again displays the gentle boldness of Kat's vocals and meshes the high-energy elements with reverent worship, making it a song I could see doing well at the opening of a church service.
"We come expecting / our hearts are jumping / we know You want to meet us here," slower, faith-filled "We Want To Know You" sings out in longing. Back in the up-tempo realm, "In Awe" is a beautiful picture of the response we can't help but have to Christ's goodness and love for us. Album closer "You Amaze Me" seems to be the highlight on the EP, with Kat's elegant voice ringing out effortlessly in worship. I would easily place this song in the same category with other powerful moments from groups like Bethel and Hillsong.
The Bottom Line:Kat&Jared shows much promise for the former rockers turned worshippers, mixing the best elements of both genres to craft an EP that gives fans a taste of what's to come stylistically from the duo in the future. With guitar-driven melodies, reverent lyrics and moments of heartfelt worship all in the same mix, Kat & Jared's debut has something for everyone to enjoy and shows why they may soon be a force to be reckoned with in the worship genre.
Still Climbing Higher | Posted January-24-2017
Hailing from Guyana, South America, Yonette Odessa has been singing since she was just a kid. She spent much of her time as a child rehearsing with her mother and siblings, and it was then that her gift and passion for music was discovered. Yonette was raised singing in her church and community, and as she got older, she also noticed her love for songwriting.
Adding to her present roles as a wife, mother and leader of the dance ministry at her local church, her career as a recording artist took off in 2012 with the release of her debut album Free. Now five years later, Yonette is happy to be sharing her sophomore project, The Climb.
A powerful spoken word, "Intro (feat. Nellah)," opens the album before leading into the title track, an uplifting message of strength and perseverance through Christ. Sonically attractive "Changes" plays on Yonette's elegant yet bold vocals, much like "Run To You," a mid-tempo proclamation of faith. Drum-driven "All You" offers a message of surrender and trust, while worshipful "Breathe Into Me" and "Save Me" are heartfelt prayers for Christ's rescue.
The first single released from The Climb, "End Of Me" features a heavy beat and chorus that will easily get stuck in your head alongside lyrics of total reliance on God: "What do I see when I come to the end of me? I see You." A nearly-EDM highlight on the album, "Never Let Go" is another song of assurance in Christ, similar to upbeat "Sweet Love." Wrapping up this collection of songs, "Alright" is a peppy encouragement to listeners, and slower "Yours" gives Yonette's voice a chance to shine as she sings about her dedication to God.
The Bottom Line: Stylistically, The Climb has a bit of everything to offer fans: pop, worship, even a touch of EDM in places. Vocally, it's not hard to hear that Yonette has spent years working on her gift, its graceful structure and powerhouse qualities showcased in every track. The Climb shows great potential for Yonette Odessa's future as she continues to pursue her passion for making Christ's name known through her music.
Tragedy Into Testimony | Posted January-18-2017
Few debut albums have stayed on repeat for me as long as David Dunn's Crystal Clear did. The 2015 release caught me off guard with just how sure David's sound was right off the bat, not wandering and searching as debut projects often feel, but already mature and figured out. Radio hits "Today Is Beautiful" and "Have Everything" introduced listeners to his bright, high-energy pop sound and unique, captivating voice. In my review of that album, I noted that it was full of "dynamic melodies, remarkable vocals and memorable hooks," and two years later, it's still a record I can't get enough of.
His sophomore album Yellow Balloons drops February 17, and it more than meets the expectation for what a follow-up from such a promising artist should be. Showcasing many of the same elements that made his debut a home-run, it also displays a bit of an evolving sound, proving David is still growing as an artist.
Behind the catchy hooks and fun pop vibes is the deeply personal story that inspired the whole album, a story of loss and grief for David and his family. About a year and a half ago, David stopped by his sister's house before a rare hometown show to visit his nieces. His sister put them down for a nap soon after, but the youngest--only two years old--never woke up. A tragedy that no one could have seen coming, David channeled his sorrow into this album. This makes Yellow Balloons not only a heartfelt collection of songs that center on childlike faith and the beauty of Heaven, but also a collection of songs that fans can know without a doubt David poured his soul into.
Percussive "Kingdom" opens the album with heavy beats and focuses on the reality that the Kingdom of God is living in us, and we bring Heaven down to earth every time we treat each other as Christ would have us do. Lyrically honest and faith-filled "Open Arms" carries the same alluring sound and vocal that we came to know in Crystal Clear: "Could it be that You can see me in the dark / that the brokenness in me won't close Your open arms?"
Taking a short break from the high-energy, "Grace Will Lead Me Home," a mellow worship moment, is a bit unusual for his normal style but suits him extremely well. David has admitted that because the track was outside of the scope of what he normally creates, he almost pitched to someone else, yet it ends up being a definite highlight on this album.
Lively "I Don't Have To Worry" is another personal favorite as it carries over many elements from his debut that I loved: his seamless vocals that soar above every lyric with ease, a chorus that quickly gets stuck in your head and a catchy melody you can't help but be drawn to. Another chill track, piano-led "Vacation" calms the mood with a message of rest and finding solace in Christ alone. Synth-soaked "Masterpiece" brings us back to the sonic creativity and pop tones that David's music hold so well as the underlying message hits with deep impact: "You make a symphony from broken melodies / You do it beautifully / You take the mess of me and make it a masterpiece."
Adventuring into even more new sonic territory, "History" is a fun, attention-grabbing listen from start to finish, much like "Ruins," a nearly EDM-sounding reminder and encouragement that God uses our broken pieces to build something beautiful.
The lead single and title track that close out the album are perhaps the best example of how sonically diverse David's music is becoming. Current radio single "I Wanna Go Back" is a vibrant, nostalgic-filled moment as David lyrically longs for the simpler days when childlike faith was all he knew and believing Christ's love was much easier. The title track stands in contrast as an emotionally heavy account of the loss of his niece. The ballad, which David struggled to write with his sister over the course of eight difficult months, chronicles the tragedy and the unimaginable sorrow behind it with incredible honesty and heartbreaking depth. A moving and memorable tribute to his niece, you'll no doubt need tissues to get through this one as the grief is still palpable in every line he sings.
The Bottom Line: David's voice alone is a good enough reason to listen to Yellow Balloons, but the heavy beats, heartfelt writing and unforgettable hooks make it an album you just can't ignore. Knowing the backstory behind the whole theme and the vulnerability it required for David to write these new songs, I appreciate them all the more, and I expect his fans will too. He channeled his personal grief into every inch of this project. A true showcase of the remarkable creativity and mature artistry that has made David Dunn one of the best CCM has to offer right now, Yellow Balloons is a definite success for a sophomore album.
New Music, Veteran Voices | Posted January-11-2017
While Grayson|Reed may be a new name to you, Mike Grayson (Mikeschair) and Molly Reed (City Harbor) are far from new to the CCM scene. Shortly after marrying Mike in 2013, Molly stepped away from her spot as half of pop duo City Harbor and pursued a songwriting career, penning hits for such artists as Amy Grant, Danny Gokey, Francesca Battistelli and Colton Dixon. Longtime worship group Mikeschair disbanded in 2016, leaving Mike free to join Molly in taking on a new musical venture.
Their new venture, Grayson|Reed, signed with Centricity Music last year and are now debuting their duo with a 6-song EP, Walk, that beautifully displays their combined talents and the stylistic approaches they both bring to the table.
The peppy title track opens the project with catchy lyrics that challenge listeners to live out their faith: "Oh Lord, come move my feet, 'cause all I need is a few less words and a little more action, a little less talk and little more walk." Fittingly, it proves difficult to sit still while listening to this one. Equally as upbeat, "Bloom" was written as an encouragement to their daughter Grailey and sonically brings out the City Harbor influence on the record.
Grayson|Reed's debut single, "Fight For You," appears next, a powerfully honest ballad about the struggles of marriage and the sustaining strength that is found in having God at the center of the relationship: "I'm gonna fight for you 'till the breath in my lungs runs out / our love is something I don't wanna lose, so every single day in what I choose, I'm gonna fight for you." The song is already finding great success at radio as stories continue to flood in about the impact it has had on listeners and their marriages.
A highlight on the album, sonically diverse "Can't Get Enough" brings the duo's vocals to the forefront as we get to hear just how seamlessly the two blend musically. Slowing down the tempo a bit and bringing out more of the Mikeschair sound, Molly's voice shines on the chorus of "Be Revealed" as she sings of God's ability to be found even in our chaos. The EP comes to a close with another sonically creative offering, "How This Ends," which acts as a song to the enemy telling him of our already-secured victory in Christ.
A deluxe edition of the EP is available exclusively at Grayson|Reed shows and includes three more tracks: anthemic "Let It Be," worshipful "I Need You Jesus" and an acoustic version of "Fight For You."
The Bottom Line: I was (and still am) a big fan of Mikeschair and City Harbor, so naturally what I love most about this project is that you can hear influences and elements of both woven into these songs. That's not to say that this EP is a remake of their previous work--it's also a completely new sound that displays the duo's own style and shows how well Mike and Molly mesh musically. Watch out for Grayson|Reed heading into 2017. I definitely see big things ahead based on the music and audience connection we're already hearing from them.
Still Spreading Hope | Posted January-03-2017
It's been a long but worthwhile road to where Danny Gokey is now. The soulful singer first grabbed the attention of fans when he appeared on season eight of American Idol, finishing third in the competition. Soon after the show, Gokey released his debut country album, but then he seemed to go quiet for a few years. Much to the excitement of fans, he returned to CCM in 2014 with his sophomore album Hope In Front Of Me. The title track exploded at radio and quickly saw major amounts of positive feedback from listeners as they began to share stories of how the song impacted their lives during painful circumstances. Coupled with his own story of loss and heartbreak now turned to redemption and hope, the song was the perfect message to restart Danny's career.
The album also held radio hits "Tell Your Heart To Beat Again" and "More Than You Think I Am" as it introduced old fans to his new sound and put Gokey back at the top of his career. Now a few years, a Christmas album, many awards/nominations and countless changed lives later, Danny is back with his new album Rise.
Opening the album with the same energetic pop vibes we found present on Hope In Front Of Me, "Stronger Than We Think We Are" offers an encouraging message of empowerment to those who feel worn down (a fun remix of the song also closes the album). Recently released "If You Ain't In It" and the album's first single "Rise" follow back-to-back, perhaps the best example of how Danny effortlessly transitions from the jazzy pop tones to a more subdued pop yet almost worship-styled track, executing both with extreme talent. A bold reminder of who we were created to be, the title track hits its mark with the same power that "Hope In Front Of Me" did: "So rise / breaking the dark, piercing the night / you're made to shine / an army of hope, bringing the world a radiant light / you were made to rise."
A definite highlight and personal favorite, "Masterpiece" plays on the deeply honest yet beautifully hopeful lyricism that Danny captures so well in his music: "Heart trusts You for certain, head says "it's not working" / I'm stuck here still hurting / but You tell me You're making a masterpiece, You're shaping a song in me," the triumphant chorus proclaims. Upbeat "The Comeback" and "Never Be The Same" display Danny's raspy, emotive and versatile vocals in sonically creative ways. Fittingly downtempo "Slow Down" follows this vocal theme as well, with an innovative sound that makes for an attention-grabbing listen.
A duet with fellow American Idol alumni Jordan Sparks, "Chasing" proves to be the most intimate moment on Rise as the two voices mesh remarkably well to produce a moving reminder that the Lord faithfully pursues us even when we run to other things. While the two are both such powerhouse vocalists, the way they handle this track with softness and a sort of restraint is beautiful, putting the focus fully on the vulnerable songwriting. Closing in on the end of the album, gospel-tinted "What Love Can Do" and "Better Than I Found It," a duet with Kierra Sheard, offer life-changing messages that center on the immense power of spreading love and kindness in this seemingly dark world.
The Bottom Line: No question about it, Rise finds Danny Gokey at his best yet as he continues to mature as an artist and settle into his pop/soul/gospel blended sound. It feels obvious that Danny put a great deal of heart in these songs, as each one is a passion-filled communication of hope, love and the faithfulness of God even in our weak places. With every bit as much (and then some) emotion, honesty and vocal power as his previous records, Rise will no doubt continue to impact fans with all the redemptive and hopeful elements that we've come to expect from Danny Gokey's music.
The Perfect Ending To An Incredible Year | Posted January-02-2017
It's been a huge year full of milestone accomplishments for newcomer Zach Williams: a record deal with a major label, a hit single, debut EP and GRAMMY nomination, just to name a few. The grungy vocal behind "Chain Breaker" launched onto CCM radio this summer and hasn't slowed down since with his southern rock style and worship-focused tracks. His EP dropped late in September and introduced listeners to the rest of the sound Williams offers with his music.
With a full-length album originally set to release next spring, Zach pulled out a Christmas surprise last month at a hometown show with the announcement that the album was now available on iTunes due to high consumer demand. Featuring five new tracks in addition to the previous five from the EP, the full-length Chain Breaker project will hit shelves in physical form January 27th.
What You've Already Heard:
As for the songs you'll be familiar with if you've heard the EP, the breakout title track opens the album with its bold invitation to know Christ: "If you got pain, He's a pain taker / if you feel lost, He's a way maker / if you need freedom, saving, He's a prison shaking Savior / if you got chains, He's a chain breaker." Southern rock highlights "Old Church Choir" and "Song Of Deliverance" display the country grit that seems to come naturally in Zach's sound, while worshipful "Revival" and "To The Table" hold powerful lyric moments that show the depth of his songwriting skills.
What's New:
On the new side of this album, "Survivor" automatically stands out as a favorite with its stirring testimony of redemption and salvation. Lively "My Liberty" continues the album's theme of freedom from Christ: "There's revival stirring in my heart since Your love unlocked these prison bars / I'm a slave no longer to the dark / forever changed, forever Yours." Slower "Fear Is A Liar" is an emotionally compelling moment that calls out the lies of the enemy. Another track that talks of the transformation that follows meeting Christ, "Everything Changed" plays on Zach's gravelly voice backed by a gospel choir to craft a powerful song before closing out the album with praise-centered "So Good To Me."
The Bottom Line:
In my review of Zach's EP, I said that he had proven himself the artist to watch going into 2017. I still absolutely agree with that, maybe even more after hearing this full-length project. He gracefully flows between worship and southern rock, navigating both genres well and proving his level of artistry is far above that of the average newcomer. A great addition to the collection of standout debut albums we've seen in CCM this year, Chain Breaker is sure to hit its mark with fans. As we come to the end of what's been an incredible year for Zach Williams and to the beginning of a new year, music like this makes me positive that it's only the beginning.
Worship Meets Electropop | Posted December-19-2016
Like quite a few Christian artists these days, you may recognize Chris Sligh from his time on the major singing competition American Idol. After taking tenth place in the sixth season of the show, Chris immediately jumped into releasing music with his 2008 album Running Back To You. The album carried the top 10 hit "Empty Me" and made Chris an artist to watch in the worship/pop genres.
With Chris' last full-length project releasing in 2013, it's been a few years since new music, but Mighty Roar / Healing Flood is here to remedy the long wait. "I think it is the album I'm most proud of, maybe ever. It has radio stuff. It has worship stuff. It has artsy stuff. And all of it kind of stays in this electro-pop realm that feels current to me," Sligh says of the new record.
Energetic "Freedom Song" sets the tone for Mighty Roar / Healing Flood with its electro-pop invitation to worship. "Stripes" takes listeners back to the original sound they came to know from Chris with bold, anthemic lyrics that proclaim the truth of Scripture. "Backwards" displays the lyrical depth on this album: "You overcame my curse and put death in reverse / gave imperfection worth / You turn things backwards."
A song I could potentially hear on the radio, "Here" is a fun track, playing on the electronic elements that run through the whole project. Worship moments "Worthy," "Fill This Place" and "Your Love" keep the flow of the album pointed toward praise while still going back to the pop roots that make each track an enjoyable listen. Upbeat "You Are God" joins reverent yet powerful "Mystery Of Love" and "All To You (Surrender)" to close out the album with several really strong points.
It seems the almost four year wait for new music was exactly what Chris Sligh needed to produce an album unlike any he's ever released before. The electro-pop vibe runs from beginning to end, even in the more worship-focused tracks, which creates a diverse listen and shows his growth as an artist since the last release.
The Bottom Line:Mighty Roar / Healing Flood is absolutely a success that shows Chris's passion for music and aims to put him back at the top of his game.
CaitlinLassiter_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
