TobyMac ‘The Elements’ Album Review

TobyMac
The Elements
(ForeFront)

More than two decades after TobyMac and the dcTalk crew made CCM history with the landmark album Jesus Freak, the seven-time GRAMMY winner continues to forge new ground through his signature fusion of pop, hip-hop and rock—this time with The Elements.

Lyrically, The Elements remains unabashedly Christian and feels like a warm hug of encouragement—from the love letter to God titled “It’s You” to the optimistic funk-pop of “Horizon (A New Day)” to the cry for unity on “Starts with Me” (featuring Gotee artist Aaron Cole).

The anthemic title track and the catchy, chart-topping single “I just need U” showcase TobyMac’s unprecedented ability to blend so many musical elements (see what I did there?) that also include R&B and reggae into a sound that will sound familiar to fans while also serving up a unique, fresh flavor.

Fans waited three years for this collection of 11 new songs from one of the most respected musicians in the industry. Was it worth the wait? Yes. Toby McKeehan, aka tobyMac, does not disappoint.

–Natalie Gillespie