Comin' on Strong is a vast improvement from
Carman's last release. It has a much more consistent sound; it is grounded very much in the '80s, but at least it's not schizophrenic. "Lazarus Come Forth" is one of his strongest story songs. "Spirit Filled Pizza" tries to be funny by playing on
Carman's Italian-American roots, but, well, it's just not. "This Thing Is Real" is unapologetically charismatic and "The Light of Jesus to the World" shows his earnest fundamentalism. His ballads, "His Mercy Endures Forever" and "Ask of Me," are exercises in total schmaltz. This album shows
Carman's attempt at developing a sound of his own, with mixed success. ~ Melinda Hill