It's been quite some time since we've heard something from Chris Byrd & True Victory

After releasing a solo project and two praise and worship projects with his church aggregation Davidic Praise, Byrd is back on the scene with True Victory and a new project. The sixth release from this group, titled Great and Mighty, marks the resurgence of Byrd and True Victory and shows us that they haven't lost a beat.

Byrd has done quite a bit of writing lately, with a recent offering on the Gospel Today Praise & Worship Vol. 2 project. In addition, he serves as music director for the Rance Allen Group. With that said, Byrd combines all of those experiences into this 16-track project which really highlights the diversity and growth that Byrd has gained over the years.

His writing ability continues to shine and is clearly reflected with the leadoff cut "3 Hebrew Boys". The track excitedly retells the story of the three Hebrew boys and their furnace experience. The incomparable Pastor Rance Allen makes a guest appearance on this song, adding the exuberance and flair that is all Rance Allen. This track gets a neat remix with an almost Arabian makeover. Both versions of the song are noteworthy.

Over the years, Byrd and True Victory have blessed us with some hot uptempo choir grooves and this project does not disappoint. You've got to check out "Cry Aloud", which is really a celebratory praise and worship song that is sure to find its way into pulpits all over the country. "It's All For You" is a slickly produced track that is an urban love groove to God. It expresses our love for Him and dedicates our best to Him. True Victory mainstay Tessa Boles joins Byrd on this song and adds her smooth lead vocals to the track.

"Let's Get Radical" uniquely blends rock, rap, classical, and the choir vibe all into one cut. With Mike Savage dropping the heat, Byrd and True Victory bring the pain and offer a truly radical praise to God with this one. Be sure to check out the ending of this song as True Victory shows their true versatility and range as this offering ends on an unusually classical note.

Byrd and company follow this up with the serious groove titled "Solid Rock". Tubby serves as bass player for this track and his skills are definitely highlighted as this track relies heavily on the steady pocket that's kept by True Victory's band, headed by music director James Jones.

Throughout a number of these tracks, Byrd overlays his lead vocals with a vocoder at the most unexpected times. This production technique is off the chain and adds a whole new element to what he and the choir are doing on this album.

This project is one of the first projects where Byrd and True Victory do not offer any traditional choir tracks. However, this IS clearly the project that Byrd establishes himself as a true praise and worship leader. Without question, the strongest tracks on here are the praise and worship offerings. It's clear that Byrd can take you to the throne room within a moment's notice.

The title cut begins the praise and worship period. Byrd leads the choir on this track as they boldly remind us that the Lord is great, mighty, and worthy to be praised. This track effortlessly blends into "I Surrender". This is a gorgeous worship song that focuses on us surrendering our will in place of God's will for our lives. "Pour Into Me" is a transparent song that expresses the desire to have God pour His spirit into mankind.

The worship goes even deeper with "Breathe on Me". This praise and worship set is reminiscent of the urban praise and worship In the House series done several years ago that featured artists such as Fred Hammond and Keith Staten. If you were a fan of those projects, then you'll love Byrd's praise and worship selections.

Byrd continues the worship set with songs like "We Love Your Name", which sees LaTonya Crawford on lead vocals. The set ends with Byrd going solo on "Lord of All", a worship song of adoration to God, speaking of His kingship and authority over all of the earth. The song is powerful and is a window into the intimacy shared between Byrd and his Creator. The simplicity of this song reminds us of how simple yet powerful a genuine praise can be.

Add to that, Byrd gives us a sneak peek at his upcoming neo-soul offering, titled "Let It Rain". This 75-second offering shows that Byrd can do it all and makes you want more. So, it looks like you'll need to hit the repeat button on this one.

Without question, Byrd and True Victory have delivered yet another gem. Excellence has been their hallmark over years and once again, they don't disappoint. Both the Lord and this release are Great and Mighty and deserve a spot in your collection.