The album opener says it all: "growing, getting better." Mary Mary certainly is, and Go Get It proves it. Cool gospel grooves and smooth harmonies mark each of these 13 tracks, including a new version of their 2000 hit "Shackles (Praise You)." On their first album since the launch of their reality show, this sister act continues their musical mission of encouragement. "God Bless" and the album's title track are standouts, while the ladies really let loose on "Can't Give Up Now." Then there's the harmony-heavy "Dirt," which reminds us that growth is often found in life's messier moments.
He's been making music for more than three decades, but this former Petra frontman is at his best when he gives in to his passion for pure rock 'n' roll. Fortunately, The Greater Cause is an album full of just that. The Gospel Music Hall of Famer's best asset is his big voice, and this follow-up to 2008's The Grafting makes the most of it, particularly on songs like "Hope That Saves the World." Produced by Dan Needham, Schlitt shares writing credits on seven of the album's 11 tracks, with Needham, Ed Cash, Ian Eskelin, Chris Rodriguez and Scott Faircloff also lending their songwriting talents.
Some bands choose a direction and others have one chosen for them. "I Can Only Imagine" sealed MercyMe's fate as the group to give voice to our hurts and healing. Their seventh studio project pays homage to that role, chronicling fresh losses, recent pains and the true healing that can only come from God. Producers Brown Bannister and Dan Muckala made sure the album wasn't a downer, though, despite the deep topics. Instead, there's a nice rock edge and an overall upbeat feel. The title track is inspired, and don't miss "Take the Time," featuring Needtobreathe's Bear Rinehart.
Switchfoot continues to solidify its rep as one of Christian music's most innovative bands with sets like this six-track EP. While remix projects can be iffy, especially if you have a strong attachment to the original tracks, these fresh versions of songs from 2011's Vice Verses are artfully done and just plain fun. JT Daly of Paper Route takes on the task of remaking "The Original" and "Dark Horses," while Owl City's Adam Young gives new life to "Blinding Light." Photek, Darren King and DnJ round out the list of mix masters showcased here.
For the band's 14th studio effort, The Choir rely on their trademark off-kilter, melodic soundscapes, but lyrically they opt for decidedly more universal themes than on the band's last outing. In other words, The Loudest Sound Ever Heard is an album for everyone (which isn't always the case with a Choir project). The goal this time around is to uplift and encourage -- as well as entertain. Even the album's love song, "Takin' the Universe In," is unapologetically upbeat. Don't miss album closer "After All," a haunting duet between Derri Daugherty and Sixpence None The Richer's Leigh Nash.
Recorded in front of a hometown Baltimore, Md., crowd, Pastor Jason Nelson delivers a live recording that will leave you feeling like you've been to church -- and not in a fidgety, my-tie-is-too-tight way. This album is all about encouragement, with oversized vocals backed by a talented choir. Don't miss the celebratory "Your Favor," worshipful "Nothing Without You" and the title track. If Nelson's style feels a bit familiar, it may be because he's not just a big gospel voice, he's also a gifted songwriter, who has penned tracks for A-list gospel act Marvin Sapp, including the hit "Thirsty."
