Back Again (B07S778SNY, 2019)

For many, the name Mac Powell might not resonate too loudly, but for longtime fans of GRAMMY-winning Christian southern rock band, Third Day, Powell stands in high regard. Having dabbled in country music with a few solo releases and having hung up his Third Day hat, the artist, a self-described "band guy," is tapping back into his country roots with his new outfit, Mac Powell and the Family Reunion. Featuring Powell on vocals and a solid cadre of longtime friends like Jason Hoard and Tim Gibson, among others, holding down the musical fort, the musical foundation is solid.

Standing tall and proud are tracks like the opener, "Back Again," which is a rollicking country rocker, hitting hard out of the blocks and showcasing Powell's powerful vocals while "Whoo!" delivers a bit of playful country cred with a guest spot from veteran Craig Morgan and a fun party vibe. Some twangy banjo and smooth fiddle color in between the lines of the radio ready "I'm Beginning to Wonder," but it's album closer "Mississippi" that makes its mark the strongest, the whole package coming together to deliver an infectious jam that gets the blood flowing.

"Flood Waters," with its smooth picking and grinning, and the fun-loving "Watermelon Rind" offer up solid showcases for the band's stellar musicianship while the lyrical song of commitment that could play between friend, lover, or God, "Red on a Rose," hints at Powell's faith-based roots. Those same roots find a home in the smooth southern rock swells of "Heaven" as well as in the warmth and love displayed on the subtle "Sittin' Here Talking with You."

There's a hint of the Georgia Satellites heard on the rocking good time of "Settling Down" and "Tiptoein'" provides a similar vibe, offering up rich roots rock that rings true. "Mess of Me" displays some mid-tempo swagger while "What I Came Here For" is rambling open road country, with low key jams like "Going to California" and "I Could Get Used to This" providing moments of quieter respite.

Powell and company show themselves to be a formidable musical force, drawing from a solid palette of musical influences to deliver a signature brand of southern rock inspired country.