outhern Gospel staple Brian Free & Assurance’s (Daywind Records) latest release is “Worth It.” The CD stands up to its title. It’s worth listening to, worth purchasing and worth believing the lyrics of the title track – Jesus died for us and we are worth it!

If you are not familiar with Southern Gospel music, this is a great CD to serve as an introduction into the classic genre. The songs are encouraging and enjoyable, and the lyrics are easy to understand.

The first song of “Worth It” starts off in striking fashion with gorgeous a-cappella harmony in “There Is A Kingdom Coming.” So many CDs start off with upbeat, driving songs to try to catch listeners’ attention. It was truly a surprise and delight to hear a solitary voice without accompanying music for this CD’s introduction. For those who enjoy vocal harmony – regardless of what genres you listen to – you should definitely check out this song.

One of the best things about the Southern Gospel genre is that the focus is more on vocals and less on instrumentation. The introduction to this CD epitomizes that with the a-cappella style, and the rest of the CD stands true to the emphasis on vocalization.

In the song “Preaching To the Choir,” Brian Free & Assurance takes a haggard cliché and turns it into a new concept. Some Christians grow weary of hearing the same Gospel message over and over again. However, as “Preaching To the Choir” so adequately emphasizes, we never outgrow our need to hear God’s Word.

“You Must Have Met Him” is a song of celebration for those who have recently fallen in love with Christ. This song also encourages those who are told their conversion to Christianity is fake and “just a phase.” Incredibly encouraging, this song is also a great reminder of the impact that comes from truly knowing Jesus Christ.

Throughout this album, there’s a theme acknowledging the “troubled times” people are experiencing today. However, as the song “Nothing Takes You By Surprise” says with its title, God is not surprised by the times we are in. This album rightly reminds its listeners that God is still sovereign and in control of this season, no matter how difficult it may be.

To listen to or purchase the CD, visit www.brianfreeandassurance.com/music.php or search for Brian Free & Assurance on www.daywind.com.