Pivoting away from 2016's pop-polished , South Carolina faith-infused rock outfit return to their roots with the rousing . Falling within the realm of , , and , this seventh set is an anthem-packed batch of uplifting positivity, satisfying the soul with the band's brand of earnest optimism. With the departure of founding member , the remaining trio of still manage to knock it out of the park even at a reduced capacity, delivering their tightest and most consistent set in years. From the rousing opener "Mercy's Shore" -- which soars with gang vocals that would be appropriate for worship in a revival tent -- make it clear that this is an album designed to empower and motivate through life's tough times. The -esque "Alive" gallops through evocative scenes of youthful innocence and nostalgia, as urges listeners to suck every last drop out of this life. The country-smoked "Riding High" delivers a similar sentiment, this time in the form of a countrified blast of swagger and rollicking guitar. Later, pleads to "Hang On" through life's trials because "these things take time." It's one of the best moments on the album, joining highlights such as the equally wistful "Child Again" and the hardened groover "Out of Body" in their mission to elevate spirits with an earnestness as bold and unabashed as . Even tougher moments like those heard on the moving, piano-based closer "Seasons" strive to empower without wallowing in despair. While not as overtly religious as their frequent Christian designation might suggest (the come-to-Jesus "Survival" with and comes the closest), spiritually uplifts as expertly as any worship music ever could, shining a light into the darkness with impeccably penned anthems to lift listeners from the deepest depths. ~ Neil Z. Yeung