McCarty & Benge have returned, and they’re bringing with them a message of perseverance and faith that feels especially poignant in today’s turbulent world. Their second album, Live On Faith, is an empowering blend of Southern gospel, country, and hip-hop influences. It’s an album that’s as much about personal testimony as it is about providing a soundtrack for the modern Christian experience.
In a music landscape often dominated by polished productions and image-driven narratives, McCarty & Benge stand out for their authenticity. On Live On Faith, the duo taps into a raw and real energy that invites listeners into their world, a world where faith is not just a belief but a lifeline. The duo’s fusion of gospel harmonies and Southern country storytelling, underscored by McCarty’s hip-hop flows, is an innovative take on Christian music that speaks to a diverse audience.
One of the outstanding tracks of the album is “Moving Mountains,” a track that feels like a call to arms. Its powerful message about overcoming obstacles with the strength of faith is echoed throughout the album, but this track sets the tone with an anthemic, almost cinematic energy. The production is layered and dynamic, weaving gospel choirs with contemporary hip-hop beats. Lyrically, McCarty & Benge speak to the challenges we all face—the “mountains” that seem insurmountable—and offer faith as the key to overcoming them.
But Live On Faith isn’t all fire and brimstone; it also has moments of softness and reflection. On “To Be a Dad,” the duo explores the emotional complexities of fatherhood, offering a heartfelt tribute to the role faith plays in their parenting. The song has a gentle, country-infused vibe, and it’s here where Jason Benge’s Southern gospel roots truly shine. In contrast, “Love Story” offers a more upbeat, love-filled track that adds a dose of lightness to the album without compromising its message.
Perhaps one of the album’s most profound tracks is “God’s Land,” which finds McCarty & Benge contemplating the idea of home—both earthly and spiritual. The song is an anthem of belonging and faith, where the duo reflects on their journey and their trust in God to guide them through life’s challenges. The blending of hip-hop’s rhythmic drive with the lush, emotive vocals of Southern gospel creates a soundscape that feels both grounded and expansive.
One of the most compelling aspects of Live On Faith is its vulnerability. McCarty & Benge are not afraid to show their flaws, struggles, and doubts. There’s a relatability to their music that is rare in contemporary Christian music. They’re not preaching from a pedestal—they’re walking alongside their listeners, sharing in the journey. This honesty is perhaps best seen in their own words: “Even if we have the ability to impact just one soul, then for us, it’s all worth it.”
The duo’s intention is clear: Live On Faith is a vehicle for spreading joy, hope, and most importantly, faith. The blend of accessible, catchy melodies with messages of endurance and belief makes the album an ideal choice for anyone looking for a soundtrack to their own journey of faith. In a world where many are looking for hope, McCarty & Benge’s album offers it in abundance.
Ultimately, Live On Faith is more than just an album—it’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit when grounded in faith. McCarty & Benge have crafted a collection of songs that inspire and uplift, reminding us that faith isn’t just something we believe in—it’s something we live.