Here are three new albums that I’ve been listening to on repeat all summer.

By Melissa Farthing, Copy Editor

  1. inhale (exhale) by MercyMe

Released April 30th, 2021

It was refreshing to hear new music from MercyMe this summer; their last studio album was in 2017. Previously released singles like “Almost Home” and “Say I Won’t” gave MercyMe fans a sneak peek of the album earlier this year. Although the band’s tenth (!) studio album didn’t perform as well as their previous efforts, inhale (exhale) still contains plenty of upbeat, groovy songs that inspire listeners to bask in the glory of God. From fast-paced songs like “Uh Oh (Here I Go)” to more solemn hits like “Bright Side Of Broken,” this album has something to suit every musical taste. A couple of artists collaborated with the band on this album, and I personally feel that these vocalists brought some fantastic talent to the table. 

  1. Milk & Honey by Crowder

Released June 11th, 2021

I thoroughly enjoyed Crowder’s last two albums, Neon Steeple and I Know A Ghost, so I highly looked forward to listening to Milk & Honey. While I Know A Ghost is still my favorite entry of Crowder’s, Milk & Honey is a worthy rival. The album has a consistent trap/pop sound, making it a good choice for Christians who like modern music. There are plenty of tracks that invoke a feel-good, dance party vibe, but also ones that allow the listener to reflect, such as “He Is” and “God Really Loves Us.” It’s hard for me to pinpoint a favorite song on this album, but I’m pretty fond of the unique ragtime influence on “Glory, Glory (God Is Able).” If you’re looking for a bouncy, hopeful worship album, give Milk & Honey a listen.

2. Into the Mystery by NEEDTOBREATHE

Released July 30th, 2021

By far, my most anticipated album on this list, Into the Mystery, came just shy of a year after NEEDTOBREATHE’s last album, Out of Body. Normally, the band would have spent the previous twelve months touring, but the coronavirus pandemic restricted travel. Instead of moping over their lost concerts, the band gathered together and recorded an album…in 21 days. I don’t know about you, but that wildly impresses me, especially considering the album is so good! Each song has thoughtful and profound lyrics that raise questions about God while still worshipping Him at the same time. 

I’ll admit; a few of the songs on this album don’t have the best melodies, and they made my ears say, “Meh.” Nonetheless, there are far more good songs than bad ones. You can often find me passionately lip-syncing to “Give Me A Chance” in the animation lab or listening to “Sittin’ In the Backseat” in my car (although I am not, in fact, sittin’ in the back seat. I’m usually driving). Comparatively, I’d place Into the Mystery on par with Out of Body, two excellent, enjoyable albums from my favorite Christian band.

Of course, these three albums weren’t the only releases this summer, but they represent the new music out there in the Christian music world. Try pulling one of them up on your favorite music streaming app next time you’re in the mood for some beats.

Side note: You can hear several songs from these albums on Huntington University’s student-led radio station, 105.5 FM WQHU Forester Radio (No, this isn’t a shameless plug for the radio station that I manage. How dare you accuse me of such a thing).