Thrive

Employing the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" approach, the Newsboys churn out more catchy and quirky pop on Thrive, their first studio album in nearly three years. Building on the chart success of Shine: The Hits and a massive Festival con Dios 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. Thrive is certainly a step along that path, albeit a small one. --Michael Lyttle