Wonder of the World

Album Review

Contemporary Christian fans can't get enough of the 'Bama boys. Given the tidal wave of success that has enveloped the band since its 2007 debut, expectations couldn't have been higher for their sophomore release. Their mega-hit "Undo" was ASCAP's most played Christian song of 2007, and their record ranked atop iTunes' Christian album chart. In other words, everyone wants these guys to succeed. So when they squeezed in the recording sessions for Wonder of the World during another long stretch on the road, it seemed improbable that it would follow their previous album's orbit. But credit lead man Kevin Huguley and the rest of the band for sticking to their guns and crafting another impressive worship record. Humility in tow, the band's theme of recognizing their true relationship with God makes for great midtempo pop music. This formula works best in their piano-based ballads like "The Only Thing Beautiful in Me" and "No Name." There is also the buoyant stage fodder of "Lose It All" and "There is Nothing." The closing "rap song" might not lend the boys any street cred, but it's a fun moment nonetheless.