Run

Run takes Sanctus Real further into radio-friendly territory while displaying enough power-pop energy to give the songs sparkle and bite. The crisp melodic attack and penchant for ear-snagging hooks that initially defined the Toledo, Ohio, band are still in evidence here, along with a God-centered lyrical focus. The expressions of post-adolescent angst on earlier albums have been replaced by hard-won optimism, gratitude, and praise. Songs like “Commitment,” “Keep Me Young," and “We Will Never Give Up” intertwine love of family and unshakable Christian faith with disarming sincerity. The album’s title track and “Promises” have the sleek glide of ‘80s New Romantic hits, while “Better Than This” bops along to a ’60s pop groove and “Nothing Between” introduces a touch of banjo-accented country. Lead singer Matt Hammitt projects a wide-eyed earnestness on uplifting chant-along numbers like “On Our Own” and wistful, reflective tunes like “Picture of Grace.” Sanctus Real infuses Run with a believer’s zeal, as well as a confident sense of songcraft that makes this album one of its best efforts.