After a pair of solo releases, gospel innovator Israel Houghton reconvenes his New Breed ensemble for Jesus at the Center, recorded live at Houston's Lakewood Church. This double-disc set recaptures the galvanizing spirit of Houghton’s groundbreaking New Season and Live from Another Level albums with a bold fusion of modern hymns and secular pop. Houghton leads his group through a set of such high-energy praise numbers as “Rez Power” (a chant-along tune with Jamaican touches), “Te Amo” (riding a Latin electro-pop groove with input from rapper T Bone), and “More Than Enough” (a triumphant gospel workout). Jesus at the Center shifts into more contemplative territory with slow-burning worship ballads like the passionate “Overflow” and the empowering “It’s Not Over”. The acoustic folk-flavored medley “You Have Me/You Hold My World” (featuring Michael Gungor) and Houghton’s uplifting duet with daughter Mariah on Bob Dylan’s “To Make You Feel My Love” are special treats. Jesus at the Center lives up to its title by staying true to its message of faith, healing, and salvation.