Kutless' latest album, Alpha / Omega, fuses their rock origins with contemporary worship to wonderful effect that I think fans old and new will enjoy.

Album: Alpha / Omega (Preview songs here)
Artist: Kutless
Released: 2017 by BEC Recordings

Subtitled "A Worship Project," this is Kutless' third worship album. Since their 2002 debut fifteen years ago, Kutless has dabbled in both worship and rock music, often fusing the two together in their songs.

Along with my commentary, I've noted the original writers of these praise and worship songs and if applicable, I listed a singer or group that popularized the song in this genre.  Also, this tracklist is based on the song order on my physical disc - though "King of My Heart" is listed as track 3 on the back album insert, it's the 9th song on the CD I received.

Tracklist:

1.  Your Great Name [I really like this version.  Of course, Kutless would give it a bit of a rock edge!] Michael Neale & Krissy Nordhoff, popularized by Natalie Grant.
2.  Strong Tower [A rearranged version of their 2005 hit. There's a modern worship vibe, softer than original ... it really does fit as a praise/worship song ...]
3.  Cornerstone [This is one of my favorite "newer" worship songs] Edward Mote, Reuben Morgan, Jonas Myrin, & Eric Liljero, popularized by Hillsong. 
4.  You Are Love [One of the original songs Kutless wrote and performed for this album.  I think this one might become a radio single in the future ...]
5.  Great Are You Lord [I think this is my favorite of their worship song covers from this album! I love the intonations --it made it their own, but still familiar. Definite rock vibe but still worship.] David Leonard, Jason Ingram, & Leslie Jordan, popularized by All Sons and Daughters. 
6.  Your Love Awakens Me [I still like Phil Wickham's version better, if only for the dance/electronic/pop vibe, but Kutless' take is a more "traditional" contemporary worship feel that matches perfectly with the other songs on this album.] Chris Quilal & Phil Wickham, popularized by Phil Wickham.  
7.  Shepherd of My Soul [Another original song Kutless wrote for the album.  I love that the lyrics are meaningful and is clearly inspired by Psalm 23.]
8.  Gave It All (I Surrender All) [This is my favorite non-cover worship song on the album.  There's a hymn vibe to it that I enjoyed, but it's still contemporary.]
9.  King of My Heart [The first radio single from this album definitely is reminiscent of a classic hymn, but the lyrics were actually written in 2015! Speaking of, here's the official lyric video.] John Mark McMillan & Sarah McMillan, popularized by Bethel Music.
10.  No Wonder (Roar of the Rugged Cross) [Powerful lyrics and soaring music, a beautiful track on close the album on.] Ryan Willaims, popularized by River Valley Worship.

Despite running just under 40 minutes in length, it's still a satisfying listen. Also, I adore the art deco styling of the font and design of the packaging and liner notes! If anything, I wish there was a couple photos of the band, but it's a worship album, so I can understand why there's more of a focus on the lyrics ... Looking forward to seeing what Kutless does next!

About the Artist:

Since signing to BEC Recordings in 2001, Kutless has transformed from a new rock band to a staple artist in the industry that has multi-format, top-charting hits, sold millions of records and more than eight million streams. Launched by original members Jon Micah Sumrall (lead vocals) and guitarist James Mead, the band formed first as a modern rock/worship band at Warner Pacific College in Portland in 2000. Kutless has two RIAA Gold-selling albums for Strong Tower and Live from Portland. The band has had 12 No. 1 radio singles across all formats including their major hits "Strong Tower,” "What Faith Can Do" and "Carry Me To The Cross.”

Do you have any favorite worship artists, songs, or albums?