MercyMe are one of Christian music’s success stories. They formed 18 years ago, released 12 albums, and show no sign of slowing down. The Hurt and the Healer is nothing short of what could be expected from them. 

Containing some solid rock songs, a few slower songs, and some beautiful emotional ballads, it is a highly polished album. MercyMe have managed to cover all their musical bases with a bit of something that will appeal to everybody – yet I couldn’t find a single moment where the music felt forced to be something it’s not.

However it is in the lyrics that MercyMe show their depth and maturity. The concept of this album is that God is our healer during times of trouble and hurt. I expected some phrases to sound clichéd or forced, so I was pleasantly surprised by the authenticity with which their lyrics spoke to me. This was the key factor that helped MercyMe drive their message home.

Four stars out of five