In 2007, when Tooth & Nail was known for bands like Showbread, Emery, The Classic Crime, and As Cities Burn, the label surprised us all with the signing of a worship band called The Glorious Unseen. The band went on to release three albums with T&N/BEC before going on hiatus, while lead vocalist Ben Crist spent some time ministering at the International House of Prayer in Kansas City. But that hiatus is finally over, and we're now being treated to brand new TGU tunes.

Make All Things New is a five-song EP that pairs classic TGU songwriting with more of a pop sound than what we were used to before. The most obvious example is the updated rendition of "Tonight the Stars Speak," which replaces much, but not all, of the organic instrumentation with some light synth and electronics. I'm very much accustomed to the original version, and even prefer it, but this new version is still quite good. The four preceding songs, which are all new for this EP, feature a similar musical approach, with synth and drum pads making up most of the songs. However, there's also plenty of piano, as well as a little acoustic and electric guitar work.

The poppier music does wonders in making the EP sound lighthearted and hopeful, which wonderfully complements the lyrical themes. For instance, the title track focuses on the redemptive work of Christ and His bringing us back from the dead; the lyrics are simple, but worshipful (Father open my eyes to see the beauty of Christ / You resurrect my life / You're making all things new"). Meanwhile, "Anoint (Psalm 23)" praises the Lord for His continuing work of purifying our hearts, minds, and lives, even in the midst of difficult times: (When I'm walking through the darkest valley / I will not fear 'cause I know You are with me / I look up and I behold Your beauty / will You come and touch my heart again / You anoint my head with oil / now my cup is overflowing again").

It's refreshing to have The Glorious Unseen making music again. In our current Christian music climate, most of the worship music is either boring and lifeless or it's focused on anything other than Christ. Make All Things New is an excellent change of pace. I don't know if this serves as a one-time revival or if more is to come, but I sincerely hope it's the latter.

- Review date: 5/14/20, written by Scott Fryberger of Jesusfreakhideout.com