With a couple of "favorites" discs under his belt, and a couple of years to prepare, Chris Rice is back with his fifth studio album, Amusing. It's traditional Chris Rice fare that never seems to get old, as Rice is somehow able to keep his music fresh and his appeal broad. His latest is an eclectic disc full of surprises that keep it from being firmly branded in the "pop/rock" genre.

Rice has always been known for his sweet, witty, and always insightful lyrics, and he does not disappoint on Amusing. Rice recounts the sentiments of falling in love with his wife on "When Did You Fall?" On the first radio single "Love Like Crazy," he lets us know that more than anything else, we just need to show the world the love of Christ. On the catchy, light "Lemonade," he thanks God for the little things that bring him such joy, "Life gave me lemonade, and I can't imagine why. Pour it on a sunny day underneath the tangerine sky. I live life without pretending. I'm a sucker for happy endings. Thanks for the lemonade."

Rice's latest is a nicely paced, soft and moving forty-three minutes of music that takes a few listens to get into; but once you do, it is well worth the effort. Amusing is the worthy next chapter in the career of one of CCM's best-loved artist. There is a contentment found in listening to a Chris Rice record that is hard to find elsewhere, and Amusing continues the grand tradition of finely-crafted artistry.

- Review date: 8/22/05, written by Josh Taylor