AC Aaron Shust Doxology (Centricity) FOR FANS OF: Chris August, Matthew West QQQQ While the songs on Aaron Shust’s latest album, Doxology, are rooted in solid theology and church tradition, they’re also more festive and celebratory than the title might suggest. Thus, the combination of Doxology’s grounded lyrics and towering melodies should make it a favorite within his catalogue for both personal and congregational listens. “Always Will Be” and “It Is Finished” are polished pop refrains that speak to God’s presence and power over sin, respectively. “Triumphant Conqueror” focuses on similar themes, and is a notable highlight near the album’s end. However, the real musical gem lies in the mid-section, “Never Gonna Let Me Go.” The subdued pop groove shines bright with a gospel flair and level of fun that is a welcome addition. WE LIKE: “Never Gonna Let Me Go” –Matt Conner Ryan Stevenson Fresh Start (Gotee Records) FOR FANS OF: Mat Kearney, Shawn McDonald, TobyMac QQQQ Those in the know already regard Ryan Steven- son as a promising, hook-heavy singer-songwrit- er who broke big as cowriter of TobyMac’s “Speak Life.” Like many on the Gotee roster, Stevenson combines beat-driven acoustic pop, hip-hop and electronica to create a concoction that’s musi- cally trendy and topically relevant. Chances are, listeners have already caught the lead single, “Not Forgotten,” a collaboration with Mac that’s an ideal summary of Stevenson’s sound. Yet it’s the solo “All Yours” that boasts commitment to spiritually enriching lyrics together with its dusty guitar grooves and call/response chorus echoing his commitment to Christ. In fact, each of the ten tunes deliver when it comes to mouth-watering sounds and faith fortification, further position- ing this relative newcomer as one of Christian music’s sure-to-be stars of tomorrow. WE LIKE: “All Yours” CCMMagazine.com –Andy Argyrakis