The Dallas-based singer/songwriter's debut is a rare treat for a worship artist, practically bursting with adult alternative pop hooks. It may not be a total surprise when one scans the credits and notices the presence of
Matchbox Twenty's Kyle Cook (banjo) and
Vertical Horizon's Sean Hurley (bass) and Ed Toth (drums). Collaborating with members of '90s supergroups apparently rubbed off on
Jon Abel, whose meaningful evangelical lyrics do more than just turn heads. In at least one case, they attracted the attention of one of Christianity's biggest musical icons,
Chris Tomlin.
The Passion co-founder covered
Abel's "Most High" during the 2006 tour and included it on the compilation
Everything Glorious (the song is retitled "Awesome Is the Lord Most High"). A surprising depth of musical influences and styles make
More Than This a fascinating listen. From the album's first chords,
Jon Abel delivers meaningful messages with a smooth pop sound. ~ Jared Johnson