AC Capital Kings II (Gotee) FOR FANS OF: Owl City, Tiësto QQQQ Crystal Lewis Crystal Lewis (Metro1Music) FOR FANS OF: Amy Winehouse, Adele, Sam Smith QQQQ Nearly three decades into her remarkable career, Crystal Lewis has survived and thrived through numerous musical trends, emerging as one of the most immediately recognizable voices in Christian music. Though this self-titled release has fingerprints of her glistening pop/ R&B past, Lewis is firmly planted in the here and now. Alongside meaty beats and pristine vocals, Lewis sings of redemption (“Beginning Again”), finding peace in prayer (“Let Go”) and giving glory to God with serious groove in her step (“Faithful”). There’s even the old-fashioned gospel romp “Seat At The Table,” which sounds like it could’ve been cut in Stax Records’ heyday, suggesting that Lewis is just as aware of those who paved the way before her as she is commit- ted to staying in today’s game. –Andy Argyrakis WE LIKE: “Faithful” Capital Kings’ wide-ranging take on synth-pop garnered acclaim and a top five spot on the Bill- board Christian albums chart with their debut. On their sophomore album, II, the duo reins in the diversity to further their EDM impulses (and pulses) with a propulsive, dance hall-ready set that sits well alongside global faves like Tiësto. The Gotee band is already seeing strong results with the hit single “Fireblazin,’” which features Chris Tomlin, but there’s plenty more to love on II. “Satellites” brings a funky jam that Bruno Mars would appreciate, and a killer guest appearance from KB (Reach Records) on “Northern Sky” turns the track into a must- listen. The scope is a bit narrower than before, but Capital Kings truly make their mark on their second album. –Matt Conner WE LIKE: “Satellites” CCMMagazine.com