Mystery Highway

Phil Keaggy and Randy Stonehill never got over the ’60s — which, judging by 2009’s Mystery Highway, is a good thing. These two Christian music pioneers bring a sunny hippie vibe to this joyfully rocking team-up. Forty years on, Keaggy and Stonehill continue to match an enduring affection for classic pop/rock with an unshakable faith in God. “Who’s Your Driver,” “Backwards On Her Bike,” “We’ll Meet Again” and “Irresistable Future” have the bouncy abandon of vintage Beatles tunes, propelled forward by acoustic guitars and closely matched harmonies. Stonehill’s ear for lyric detail and skewed sense of humor assert themselves in tracks like the title number and “Rockman” (the latter featuring Randy’s oddball approach to rap). Keaggy contributes a revised version of his “Sunday’s Child” and lays down some tasty psychedelic licks on “Dreamspeak.” The whimsical “Picture Postcard Perfect Day” and the lightly funky “Soul Girl” capture the album’s understated approach to spiritual themes. Mystery Highway celebrates Phil and Randy’s love for tunefully positive music, rendered (as always) in the service of the Lord.