The Mission Field

Sixteen years after “I Believe” broke big on American radio, Blessid Union of Souls reconnect with their spiritual strengths on The Mission Field. While gospel elements have always underpinned the Cincinnati-based group’s soul/pop sound, their latest release puts Christian faith front and center in nearly every track. Lead singer and chief songwriter Eliot Sloan keeps the emphasis on hope and redemption here while acknowledging (especially in “I Still Believe In Love”) the unavoidable heartaches of the mortal world. Pristine piano lines and swelling strings are wrapped around melodies that draw upon traditional hymns (the title track) and classic pop (“Pray for You”) for inspiration. Eliot and his bandmates brighten things up with “Miracles” (a celebration of God’s everyday presence set to a bubbly tune) and “The Only Song” (a praise number riding a light funk groove). Compassion is the keynote for songs like “Hold On” and “Come Undone,” conveyed by Eliot’s yearning vocals. The dramatic waltz “Back from the Dead” is an anthem of renewal.