MercyMe is releasing their seventh full-length album this week, and listening to their music, it’s pretty obvious they are sticking with their tried and true pop/worship style. But it’s not the music that is original this time, but the album title, “The Generous Mr. Lovewell.” After searching around on the Internet for a while, I eventually found what the unique name was all about. Kinda. What this CD really is, is just a concept. Mr. Lovewell is an original character that these guys came up with representing the loving and giving spirit inside all of us. An interesting idea, but did they pull off a some good music too? I’ll answer in the paragraphs below.
Beginning on an upbeat, somewhat techno note, “This Life” is a good start with a lot of fun styling and big beats to go along. The title track comes up next with a feel similar to their earlier hit “So Long Self,” and is a favorite right off the bat with a catchy chorus and some well-produced melodies. Their “Lovewell” message is clear here at the start, but it fades into the mix of things as we edge farther along.
Around halfway comes the lead single from the disc, “All of Creation,” and in genuine MercyMe style, this one is on it’s way to the top with bright worship verses and worth-while lyrics. “Back to You” adds a bit of music flavor to the collection with an irresistible chorus, and though the message is overplayed often, this track is a highlight and fans will enjoy it as well. Later on they settle into an over-produced praise feel, with lengthy, but nicely put to together songs like “Only You Remain” and “Won’t You Be My Love.”
While some might call this a concept album, I would have to disagree. It floats around with this “Mr. Lovewell” brainstorm throughout, but actually never gets to the heart of the whole notion. Aside from the title track, they give some thoughts and gestures toward the image, but overall it doesn’t end up capturing it thoroughly. If the name wasn’t the main advertisement for the album, than I would say that they have conquered what they set out to do: creating a good album. But since “The Generous Mr. Lovewell” is the headliner, I’d say that didn’t quite accomplish what they were wanting. Otherwise, I’d say this CD is full of great songs, and it is worth the money for any fan of MercyMe or CCM music of any kind. ~ Christian Lingner
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