I decided to get off my high horse and give Kevin Michael McKeehan (aka TobyMac) the flowers he deserves. Why? Because being a fan is more fun, and the dude turns sixty-one this year. There aren't many men in their sixties doing what he does, and that's worth celebrating. Now, in year twenty-four of his solo career, and with album number ten, he's back with more of his signature "gumbo" of hip-hop, pop, funk, and soul. After facing significant personal loss in recent years, listeners will find Toby reflecting once again on the afterlife, aptly titling his latest release Heaven on My Mind. Just like with his iconic trio in the '90s, each new solo album has been an event I've eagerly anticipated. Even though he's moved away from the rock-driven sound of his earlier years (and with it, my fandom has waxed and waned), he still manages to release a handful of songs on every album that find their way onto my playlists.

All that to say - I'm stoked to report that, for the most part, Heaven on My Mind is another strong addition to his already solid discography. There's plenty here to please longtime fans: Toby's signature attention to pristine production, catchy beats, funky bass lines, and spot-on guest features (though perhaps fewer of those than usual). The album offers a good mix of upbeat, radio-ready pop and heartfelt moments. Drawing from his own experiences of loss, grief, and life's daily struggles, Toby encourages believers to join him in putting "them troubles in the rearview" as we all look to the King for comfort.

Whether with dc Talk or throughout his storied solo career, Toby has never taken a real break or sabbatical; he just consistently delivers a new album and tour every three years. That level of consistency, paired with the high quality of his work, is a remarkable feat that music fans should appreciate before he eventually hangs it up.

With so many pre-release singles, I was worried the remaining tracks wouldn't measure up, or that I wouldn't enjoy the singles in the context of the full album. Rest assured that, after listening to the album as a whole several times and in several sittings, there's still plenty of goodness yet unheard. The album is beautifully bookended: it opens with the sunny, disco-drenched title track -- perfect for rollerskating season -- and closes with "Goodbye (For Gabe)," a bittersweet yet hopeful send-off honoring his late bandmate and friend.

That said, my absolute favorite tracks are a tie between the groove-laden "Rearview" and the adrenaline-pumping "Can't Stop Me." "Rearview" has a modern pop feel reminiscent of Post Malone, thanks in part to guest vocalist Juan Winans, while "Can't Stop Me" brings Toby closest to his rock roots, layering heavy synths to create the album's highest-energy moment. I also enjoyed the pre-release singles "God Did It," "A Lil' Church (Nobody's Too Lost)," and "Nothing Sweeter" even more within the album's context. Each song sparkles with edification, using elements like choir vocals, gospel organ, finger snaps, and gang vocals to create a vibrant and uplifting listening experience. These tracks also ensure a strong middle section, where many albums tend to sag or hide filler. Additional highlights include "Resist (Keep the Devil Away)," featuring touring member Terrian, which is sure to become a raucous live show staple. Meanwhile, "Oh My Soul (Psalm 103)" hooks you in with a tasty organ for a mid-tempo ride, and "Campfire (That Very Love)" stands out as a refreshing departure from Toby's usual production style, leaning into a shuffle-stomp-clap groove he's only occasionally dabbled in. Overall, Heaven on My Mind is a winner, easily Toby's most complete album since This Is Not a Test. In fact, with time, I could see this release settling comfortably into the Top 3 of his discography.

Finally, as I've already hinted at my evolving perspective on TobyMac and his body of work, I've made a decision: I'm stepping down as a lamenter and complainer of what Toby isn't or what he hasn't done, and stepping up to cheer in the parade celebrating who he is, what he has done well, and what he means to CCM. Ultimately, Toby has Heaven on his mind, but I've got his legacy on mine. And I say both are more than worthy of celebration.