Hello Love

iTunes Review

There’s no ambiguity about Chris Tomlin’s mission — his songs are meant to praise God and inspire others to do the same. Hello Love, Tomlin’s seventh album, does not falter in its ardor or thankfulness. The album’s lyrics attempt to reframe familiar themes of Christ’s love and majesty in personal, immediate language. “I Will Rise,” “Exalted,” and a cover of Bluetree’s “God of This City” combine intimacy with timeless scripture-based content. Tomlin’s resonant All-American vocals (more country than rock stylistically) enable him to deliver dramatic numbers like “Jesus Messiah” while retaining a measure of humility. Musically, there are several standout tracks here, especially the African-accented “Love” and the richly orchestrated “God Almighty.” Much of Hello Love falls within the predictable bounds of modern worship music, combining furious electric guitars and surging tempos with easily-grasped pop melodies; songs like “Sing, Sing, Sing,” “You Lifted Me Out,” and “With Me” don’t take many chances. But in reaching his higher goal of honoring his Creator, Tomlin succeeds once again.