Other than what’s on the radio, I don’t listen to Shawn Mendes often. If I’m being honest, I assumed his music was fun and made-for-radio that I wouldn’t necessarily want to listen to in my spare time. I was pleasantly surprised by his song released back in August, “Isn’t That Enough.” Acoustic and almost folksy, it shows a side of him that you don’t often hear from his radio hits. Although the music itself is laid back and relaxing, the lyrics indicate a personal turmoil. Mendes has struggled with his anxiety in the past and although things look to be on the up-and-up, it seems that he wants his audience to understand the ongoing battle that is managing your mental health. The authenticity in his tone is reminiscent of hearing a friend open up about their innermost thoughts. For some of his fans, this may not be a surprise at all. For someone like me, who has not heard much of his music, this was a refreshing twist. It’s exciting to see pop stars such as Shawn Mendes branch out and stretch the limits of the pop genre. I hope to hear more from him like this.

In His Name

This creative collaboration from the Kentucky-Tennessee Division and Phil Laegar brought together several worship leaders and musicians to produce In His Name, a new worship album. The album’s energy and soaring melodies offer a message of love and hope found in Jesus’ name. I liked the title track with its irrepressible joy and stellar groove.

Far Away by Leslie Perez

I love Leslie Perez’s sound in “Far Away.”  This R&B and Christian song is about how even when our sins bring us far away, God’s love remains consistent. Perez is a fairly new artist with songs only going back to 2022. I’m excited to see her impact on Christian music.