Geoff Moore and Steven Curtis Chapman are close friends as well as accomplished musicians who excel in writing and performing a heady brand of Christian rock. While many have heard of Chapman, many others need to hear Moore on his latest album, a superb collection of music that runs the gamut between quiet and introspective ("The Artist" and "Come as You Are") to loud and raucous ("Every Word You Say" and "A Beautiful Sound"). The in-between moments on A Beautiful Sound are just as pleasant, with "God Believes in You," "Surrounded," and the worship-oriented "All I Want." Lyrically, Moore paints vivid pictures of folks in heavenly need and how those needs are met every day. His study in generational faith--the masterful "The Keeper" from his days with the Distance and co-written with Chapman--closes the release with resounding success. Unlike his slightly disappointing self-titled solo debut, Moore flexes his musical muscle to support a most worthwhile effort. --Michael Lyttle