Crowder's "American Prodigal": Music Review

Just leave it to David Crowder to shake up the familiar sounds native to Christian radio.

Known simply as Crowder, the Contemporary Christian Music artist released his sophomore album recently to some pretty good acclaim. American Prodigal is its name; and this critic joins the ranks in welcoming it with open arms.

The swamp pop-infused record features foot-stomping tunes and reverent worship songs. Its first radio single, "Run Devil Run", feels like a favorite. And the two-time Grammy nominated singer calls it out as the track that's basically "the overall attitude of the album shoved into one place."

Centering on the life-changing journey of walking with God – from deliverance to saving grace, American Prodigal tells a beautiful faith story.

The fiddles and banjos on "Keep Me" will get your feet movin'. "Prove It (ft. KB)" has a driving beat with harmonica riffs that make it another favorite. On American Prodigal, Crowder also enlists Native American chanting on "Shouting Grounds" and a Gospel choir on "All My Hope".

Though most of the songs are fresh and offer variety to the Christian music landscape, there are a couple of "ehh" tracks that keep it from being downright great.