10 (Deluxe Version)

iTunes Review

After years of independent releases, MercyMe shot to the top of the Christian music charts in 2001 with “I Can Only Imagine,” a poignant (and highly personal) praise number. The song has set the standard for the group ever since; how they’ve measured up is chronicled on 10, MercyMe’s collection of its eleven Number One singles. Elements of country, pop and modern British rock can be heard in such hits as “So Long Self,” “In the Blink of an Eye,” “Spoken For,” and “Bring the Rain.” Most importantly, singer Bart Millard’s Everyman style has made the group’s music accessible and very human, no matter how grandiose the arrangements. 10 also features three new-to-album tracks: a sumptuous symphonic version of “I Can Only Imagine,” the rollicking Americana-styled “Only Temporary” and the bopping, kid-friendly “Ten Simple Rules.” MercyMe’s populist approach to contemporary worship music remains a Christian radio favorite. 10 distills the best of the best into one package, with a few extra treats added for good measure.