Armed with a beautiful testimony of God's rescue from a life stuck in a spiral of drugs and alcohol addiction, singer-songwriter FKA Promise steps to the plate to introduce himself to the CCM world. He does so with this eclectic three-song EP titled, New Revival. With a strong ambient guitar base across each of the three songs, he also features his multi-instrumental prowess on each track.

Taking cues from some of his influences like Empire-era Hillsong United, the lead song "Ayu" has an ethereal type of quality and vertical lyrics to match its chill vibe. In fact, speaking of chill vibe, the sonics of fellow UK worship band Rivers & Robots would not be an unfair comparison. "Sing A New Song" follows in a similar musical vein, utilizing audio clips of a preacher interspersed throughout to offer a slight twist on the previous song's approach. This is a wise and effective choice keeping away from the dreaded sameness that affects many a modern song. Lastly, the lo-key and slinky hip-hop track, "Springs Eternal," rounds out the short and sweet tracklist with the best song of the record. Once again using audio of an unnamed preacher to add a layer of effect as he sings, "My hope springs eternally/And my heart belongs to Jesus."

Ultimately, this is a good bite-sized sample to whet the appetite of listeners for additional music planned for the fall of 2020 and beyond. While all songs are solid, this reviewer would love to see FKA chase down more of the worshipful hip-hop groove explored on "Springs Eternal." It is here I believe he could potentially fill the void left by groups like Beautiful Eulogy. Regardless, New Revival is recommended music for fans of indie, ambient, worship, and hip-hop stylings. Give FKA Promise a shot; I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.

- Review date: 6/5/20, written by Josh Balogh of Jesusfreakhideout.com

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