In the world of contemporary Christian music, innovation can sometimes feel elusive, especially in a genre rooted so deeply in tradition. But with McCarty & Benge‘ s “Moving Mountains,” Christian hip-hop artist Ian McCarty and Southern gospel singer Jason Benge achieve a refreshing fusion that is both spiritual and genre-bending, carrying forward the momentum of their acclaimed debut Small Town in an anthem that strikes a balance between reverence and rawness.

Released on October 25, 2024, “Moving Mountains” is the first glimpse into the duo’s upcoming sophomore album, Live On Faith. The track captures their distinct synergy—a heartfelt blend of Southern gospel and hip-hop that intertwines both styles without overshadowing the other. With McCarty’s lyrical agility and Benge’s grounding vocals, “Moving Mountains” feels like a raw testimony shared in both melody and rhythm, speaking to life’s struggles and the unwavering power of faith to rise above them.

The inspiration behind “Moving Mountains” draws from McCarty’s travels through East Tennessee, where the Smoky Mountains, ever-present and unwavering, serve as a metaphor for God’s power to “move mountains” in our lives. This spiritual and geographical connection elevates the track beyond simple storytelling; it grounds it in a landscape that feels as real and rugged as the obstacles it aims to overcome. The lyrics—”How Great Thou Art, my God be moving mountains / Shine like the stars, you got some blessings, count ‘em”—weave traditional imagery into contemporary expressions, transforming old-school praise into a sound that resonates with today’s listeners.

What’s truly unique about McCarty & Benge is their ability to speak to a wide audience by blending contrasting musical traditions. McCarty, with his background in Christian hip-hop, brings an edge to their sound that lends itself to introspective storytelling. Benge, meanwhile, is steeped in the deep, warm tones of gospel, drawing on his experiences with the renowned Benge Family Band. Together, they’ve crafted a track that doesn’t simply talk about faith but immerses listeners in its complexities and comforts.

In “Moving Mountains,” McCarty & Benge showcase an evolved, authentic style that feels grounded in humility. The lyrics echo universal struggles and victories: “Look, I know life got pain / gotta look for the sun, can’t drown in the rain.” These lines feel conversational yet deeply profound, encapsulating their mission to inspire without glossing over life’s challenges.

With Live On Faith on the horizon, McCarty & Benge have laid the groundwork for a powerful sophomore project. If “Moving Mountains” is any indication, this album will serve as a testament to the strength of belief, wrapped in a sonic journey that bridges two different worlds. In a genre where it’s easy to fall into familiar patterns, McCarty & Benge’s sound is as refreshing as it is uplifting—a beacon for those who need a reminder that, indeed, God can move mountains.