In the summer of 2000, the Texas-formed group Salvador exploded onto the Christian music scene, releasing a unique self-titled album. Since then, the band has continued to impact the hearts of listeners with its funky Latin beats and spiritual lyrics.

Salvador's latest project, So Natural, captures the band's signature sound yet is still fresh and exciting. The album opens with the upbeat tracks "Can you Feel (The Supernatural)," and "You Are There." The third track, "This is My Life," is a powerful worship song that slides into the chorus of "How Great Thou Art." Following is a fun cover of Los Lonely Boys' "Heaven," that Salvador plays with ease. "It Comes Back to You" and "Cover Me" discuss loving others and finding fulfillment in God. "For More Than Ourselves" takes the band in a new direction, showcasing its ability to play rock music. The remaining tracks continue the album's pattern of positive songs about God's love. The album ends with a live version of "La Palabra," sung entirely in Spanish.

It is hard to sit still while listening to So Natural. The songs are exciting and uplifting. Musically, the album has variety and moves in a slightly different direction than Salvador's previous albums. There are less horns and several songs have more of a rock feel. However, the overall sound is still distinctly that of Salvador, and those who have not liked the band's previous releases will probably not be converted to fans.

So Natural is a solid album that contains enough variety to keep one's interest. A few more worshipful tracks like, "This is My Life," would have made the album stronger, but overall there is little to complain about.

- Review date: 11/14/04, written by Laura Nunnery