Brandon Hixson, a talented worship artist and prolific singer/songwriter is back with his latest album of original material, Room With A View. The record falls sonically in familiar territory for Hixson, riding the line of classic pop rock CCM that dances between synth-driven '80s style tunes and more '90s leaning tracks. Hixson's talent as a composer is on full display with catchy melodic hooks peppering each song. There are times where the cheesy side of '80s influences overwhelm the track (like on "Wind Meets Fire"), but at other times, he uses it to great effect (such as on "Never Look Back" or "Always in My Heart"). Overall, though, the music is the strongest part of this album. Lyrically, Hixson explores themes of perspective, whether that's from a personal standpoint (like on the title track) or if it's in an effort to give the listener a different perspective on how others are living and struggling (consider "Whisper in the Wind"). Hixson's message is always clear and succinct, though something in the writing doesn't always quite reach the same high mark as the music (cliche rhymes and phrases are the biggest culprit). Still, Brandon Hixson's Room With A View is a well-produced album that hearkens back to the days when Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman ruled the Christian air waves. While it may not be on par with those greats, fans of that era will likely find some enjoyment in Hixson's work.

- Review date: 11/14/24, written by John Underdown of Jesusfreakhideout.com