Supernatural
How did DC Talk follow up their epicJesus Freak? Very carefully, ifSupernaturalis any indication. WhereJesus Freakbroke through musical barriers in a genre known for playing it safe,Supernaturalbuilds on the band's momentum with a familiar blend of power pop, beautiful ballads, and power-chord rockers. The opening "It's Killing Me" lays down a riveting foundation, while Toby McKeehan has never sounded more like Seal than on the soft ballads "Consume Me" and "Godsend." But McKeehan (who coproduces) also turns it around by belting out the R&B-tinged; "Wanna Be Loved." Not to be outdone, Michael Tait, Kevin Max, and McKeehan team up wonderfully on the radio-ready "Into Jesus." Once again, producer Mark Heimermann blends fascinating vocal arrangements into DC Talk's magical wall of sound.--Michael Lyttle