Reviewed by Tony Cummings

All those Cross Rhythms listeners who have been enjoying the band's jazz-tinged single "Shake" will have already been expecting something fresh from the best selling CCM veterans. And 'Welcome To The New' doesn't disappoint. Eschewing any temptation to stay within a radio-friendly formula, here Bart Millard and co let eclecticism rule and bring in elements of R&B, black gospel, country and even a trace of Irish folk (no doubt thanks to their extended touring with Rend Collective). Where lesser bands would be swamped in all the style-hopping MercyMe never miss a beat, whether they are offering a fuzzed out retro rocker on "Gotta Let You Go", a dirty blues riff on "New Lease Of Life" or a delicious opening title track which with its bouncy, brassy, pop hook will remind believers that Pharrell's "Happy" is okay but we can get happiness-plus with joy. All in all, 'Welcome To The New' sounds like a band released from the industry expectations of jumping through limited stylistic hoops and I've no doubt that this is their best ever album.

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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