Casting Crowns infuse their rousing CCM with touches of alt-rock and folk. They truly broke out with their 2003 self-titled record, on which singer-songwriter Mark Hall's examinations of faith, struggle, and perseverance rest upon grungy riffs that recall fellow Southerners Collective Soul. On later albums—including 2014's warm, acoustic-driven Thrive—they explore softer textures, with Hall still unwavering in his honesty. While “Jesus, Friend of Sinners” is an atmospheric anthem urging Christians to exercise greater mercy and open-mindedness, “Only Jesus” is an affirmation of faith sent skyward by shimmering guitars and powerful drums.