Music review: Newsboys – ‘Love Riot’
The Newsboys want to incite a riot. A love riot to be precise. The Dove Award-winning group follows 2014ĢƵ “Hallelujah for the Cross” with an energetic brand of music that blends elements of pop, rock and funk. Poised and ready to spread a spiritual awakening with “Love Riot,” the band delivers a stirring set of arrangements focused firmly on galvanizing believers to act on their faith.
“Crazy” serves as the albumĢƵ bold opener with a powerful message of having the courage and steadfast passion to stand up for what you believe, regardless of how the world may label you. “And you gave up a throne for a cross and a grave/Oh, I wanna be that radical,” declares lead vocalist Michael Tait.
The reflective “Hero” follows by detailing how believers should aspire to be remembered by living a purposeful life through the running of a good race and never allowing personal faith to fade in the face of adversity.
“We are an army of the truth/We’re on the march to rescue you/Don’t have to make it on your own,” passionately declares Tait on the title track that serves as a call to action to overcome the darkness with a demonstration of love for all.
“Guilty,” also featured in the upcoming film “GodĢƵ Not Dead 2,” is a tune targeted for mainstream radio play about keeping a strong faith through adversity with uplifting lyrics and sweeping chorus. TaitĢƵ vocals inspire as he sings, “Even if it gets me convicted/I’ll be on my knees with my hands lifted.”
“No Longer Slaves” speaks to the assurance that God has delivered us from our enemies and freed us from our fears with Tait confidently proclaiming, “You split the sea/So I could walk right through it/My fears were drowned in perfect love.”
The glorious message of providing an open table to all is outlined on “Family of God” with Tait passionately announcing, “We are family here/Colors and stains disappear/There is no doubt you belong/This is the family of God.”
For over 25 years, the influential contemporary Christian artists have passionately served as a powerful testimonial about living a fruitful life that is rooted in faith through a musical ministry that excites, enlightens and encourages.
“Love Riot” is a powerful and triumphant testament to the bandĢƵ robust anthems of finding your faith and putting it into action.
Designed to change lives, the Newsboys’ 18th studio effort comes across loud and clear at a time when the message of how to lead a victorious life is needed the most.