Roots Run Deep (CD - 2008)

Jadon Lavik: Fernando Ortega (vocals, accordion, keyboards, background vocals); Isabelle Lajoie Smith (vocals); Gannin Arnold (guitar, acoustic guitar, electric guitar); Zach Hodges (keyboards, programming); Tony Guerrero (keyboards); Nicholas Rodriguez (bass guitar, programming).

Personnel: Jadon Lavik (vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, background vocals).

Audio Mixer: Zach Hodges.

Arrangers: Fernando Ortega; Jadon Lavik; Tony Guerrero.

While the agreeable light guitar pop on Jadon Lavik's third studio album sounds like it could have come from a 1970s James Taylor album, it makes no bones about its Christian themes. On songs like "Blessed Assurance" and "Come Thou Font," the San Clemente, California-based singer and pastor pours his heart out about his faith. The breezy melodies will appeal to fans of Hillsong and Jennifer Knapp.

The glowing acoustic pop of Life on the Inside went somewhat under the radar, seemingly readying the world for a breakout by one of the better vocalists in the CCM world. Roots Run Deep wasn't quite that breakout, but it is still an enjoyable listen as Jadon Lavik lends his pristine voice to familiar hymns and spirituals. The collection rarely stirs louder than mezzo forte, though it benefits from pop-style arrangements. It's hard to know whether this album would have stood out had it been released a few years earlier, when it seemed a new hymn collection hit the shelves every week (Jars of Clay, Michael W. Smith, Newsboys, Avalon, for starters). The point is moot, however, since this album could stand on its own in any era. ~ Jared Johnson minimize