Thrive

Thrive

Employing the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" approach, the Newsboys churn out more catchy and quirky pop on <I>Thrive</I>, their first studio album in nearly three years. Building on the chart success of <I>Shine: The Hits</I> and a massive <I>Festival con Dios</I> world tour, the Newsboys know what works. Frontman Peter Furler and producer Steve Taylor lay down the gauntlet from the opening T. Rex-flavored glam rocker, "Giving It Over," setting the tone for another hit-laden release. The title track is a graceful study in melody, while the simple yet compelling "It Is You" is already a chart-topper. Longtime Newsboys fans will also love "Cornelius," a sonic reminder of the older hit "Breakfast in Hell." Furler and company have always been good about gently nudging Christian pop into an edgier direction. <I>Thrive</I> is certainly a step along that path, albeit a small one. <I>--Michael Lyttle</I>