Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

The latest album from CCM's veteran hitmakers sees the Texas five-piece in full-on positive mode as they seek to extol the pure joy of following Christ. With more than just a hint of Maroon 5, the title track gets the album off to a rollicking start and sets the scene for a collection of upbeat numbers that showcase the band's now trademark versatility, skill and polish with the kind of stellar vocal performance that we've come to expect from lead singer Bart Millard. The likes of "We Win" and "Best News Ever" hammer home the boys' mission to communicate their unbridled elation as Christians whilst the infectiously fun "Happy Dance" encourages any downbeat listeners to exchange fear for joy without things getting too preachy. Elsewhere, God's love for us in spite of our sin is put across with passion in "Grace Got You" (featuring a cameo from rapper John Reuben) although the song's suggestion that we should celebrate God's forgiveness because we "just got away with something" appears to cheapen that grace somewhat and is a rare misstep from the band. Wisely, the overriding theme of positivity is tempered by the supremely candid "Even If" which expertly highlights the challenges of trying to communicate the good news to the masses with a feeling of brokenness inside whilst "Hello Beautiful" recognises fear, regret and shame as problems that are real but can be overcome. The considered "Ghost" quietly celebrates the power of the Holy Spirit and closes another great MercyMe album in style.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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