On Inhabited’s 2005 debut, The Revolution (Fervent), the group provided a pleasant, though in many cases, noticeably derivative amalgamation of Evanescence, BarlowGirl and Plumb. Though splashes of those similarities resurface to a certain extent (plus bits of Paramore), Love showcases the group expanding its sonic palette, while also providing eternity-minded messages. The title cut is a stirring acoustic ballad where front woman Sara Acker speaks about love’s many angles, particularly the intertwining of the Lord’s unconditional acceptance with His grace-drenched opportunities for redemption. The sweetly sung “Song To the Fatherless” expands upon that issue, reminding listeners of Christ’s ultimate protection, despite the fractured parental relationships found in this world.

“We Will Live” and “Are You With Me” return to edgier contexts via chunky guitars and thumping drums, showcasing growth in the vocal and instrumentation department, wrapped around glistening production from Monroe Jones (Third Day, Jackson Browne). Yet, the band still leans a little too heavily on outside influences during the Gwen Stefani “Hollaback Girl” cloned “Hush” and the Superchick-styled pep rally cheer “Are You With Me.” Thankfully, it’s not to the same degrees of regularity as the first time out, suggesting that if Inhabited continues in this otherwise more original direction, its third disc could be a complete charm.

- Andy Argyrakis