Whole

This Christian singer/songwriter’s sophomore album compares favorably with the work of secular peers like Feist and Ingrid Michaelson, with the added element of a transformative spiritual perspective. Andrews’ vocals lean toward the sweet side, and her outlook has a positive tint—but that doesn’t mean her songs are entirely steeped in bliss. “Giving Your Heart Away,” for instance, shines a light on toxic relationships, while “Breakdown” examines the small decisions that might lead lives astray. Contrasting with such songs are smile-inducing celebrations of personal breakthroughs like “Caught Me by Surprise” and “Story of Grace.” Whole has production that's varied enough to bring out different colors in various tracks without losing a sense of continuity. From the buoyant, electronica-accented “Idols” to the Regina Spektor–like pop of “Can’t Be Saved” to the ‘70s-esque summery rock of “Never the Same,” Andrews fits comfortably into an assortment of sonic niches. The title track taps into Scripture-based language to make a closing statement of love and redemption.