NewSong celebrates 30 years in existence with its 19th album, a modest if varied effort. Longevity is a virtue for a Christian rock group, as it is analogous to the consistent message of faith that is the primary purpose of the band.
NewSong confirms this in "The Same God," singing, "The same God with you then is with you now/The same God who led you in will lead you out." Indeed, this God is so all pervasive that even sinners must acknowledge He is the "One True God," according to the title track. It cannot be denied, the singers go on, that "Jesus is the remedy" ("Love Is the Medicine").
NewSong varies the praise and worship with "The Way You Smile," featuring
Francesca Battistelli, which is a romantic duet, albeit one framed in Christian belief. And the band introduces some stylistic changes from its usual pop/rock approach, notably on "Why Worry," which has country and bluegrass elements. But three decades on, the message remains the same, as
NewSong continues to wait in the interim period separating the first and second comings of Jesus Christ, "Between the Cross and Crown," and to keep the faith in the meantime. ~ William Ruhlmann