Part of me wonders if the world really needs another Hillsong United-style worship album, even though I think Chris Tomlin is generally a thoughtful songwriter, if intensely inoffensive. But And if Our God is for Us is a pleasant surprise. Tomlin has branched out in this album in subtle but effective ways. He doesn’t entirely ditch the epic pop-rock sound, but he’s headed in a far more straight pop direction, and it suits his smooth vocals far better, in my opinion.

The by now omnipresent “Our God” is here, but instead of aping Coldplay this version features Eleanor Rigby-meets-Lord of the Rings strings. Then there’s “I Will Follow,” a genuinely great beat-driven ballad that is far better than anything One Republic has ever done. Tomlin even goes for Bruno Mars-meets-’80s synth-pop with “No Chains on Me.” The outcome is quite refreshing. If only that effect was maintained for the whole album; unfortunately, there are still uninspiring re-treads. But Tomlin’s willingness to try new sounds results in some of his best songs.

Four out of five stars.