2020 started off with promise. Not only because of the arbitrary calendar change of a decade, but worship-ish collective The Brilliance graced the beginning with Suite No. 2: World Keeps Spinning - An Antidote to Modern Anxiety, which is a short record with a long title that now feels hauntingly timely. Perhaps the original intention behind its release was bathed in the awareness of a US election year, but for a world presently in the midst of a pandemic, the record's commitment to quieting the soul is a necessary effort. It largely succeeded on that front, but its juxtaposition of styles might be too jarring for some listeners. This EP, Give Me Doubt, fills in that gap by centering on the liturgical approach that the group is most noted for in the form of a three-song postlude.

The song "Give Me Doubt" would fit on any Brilliance release with its hymn-like contemplation and simplistic song structure. It also lays out the EP's thematic narrative clearly: give me doubt so I can see my neighbor as myself. David Gungor and his friends affirm that doubt provides space for persistent, transformative faith to breathe. That idea is underlined by the instrumental "Holding The Contradiction" - a piano piece laden with discordant intervals and heartening resolutions. Fans of the aforementioned Suite No. 2 will recognize the EP's closer, "I Shall Not Fear," which fits much better in this musical context where its compositional beauty can be fully appreciated. This extended version of the song also features some interesting effects in the backend as the piece swirls around choral vocals before it fades into void.

For fans of The Brilliance's more meditative roots, Give Me Doubt may be more enjoyable than Suite No. 2. It really functions best as a supplement to the full-length, but its short and sweet nature makes it just as suitable a listen in these uncertain times.

- Review date: 3/24/20, written by Mason Haynie of Jesusfreakhideout.com