TobyMac is more than just your run-of-the-mill triple threat. On one hand he ranks among the most successful artists in Christian music history in terms of radio success, sales power and critical acclaim. On the other he is universally recognized as a creative force, an artistic maverick and a prophetic voice for racial reconciliation, social justice and a fierce devotion to faith and family. On the third hand, he's the most humble and approachable merchant of cool on the scene today. Yeah; that's three hands. Some things defy common logic.

Obviously, when it comes time for a new TobyMac record to drop there are a lot of people paying attention. His rampant eclecticism and consistent excellence have set the bar very high, and on his third solo outing, Portable Sounds, he does not disappoint. An increased commitment to melody and soulful singing abounds, while his now trademarked rock/funk/hip-hop side hits deeper grooves and catchier hooks than ever before. On February 20th, the man Christianity Today called "one of the fifty most influential evangelical leaders in America" sets a new standard with the release of Portable Sounds.

His solo career took off from the first notes, with two GOLD albums, six Number One singles, two Grammy nominations and widespread critical acclaim. But to hear TobyMac talk about the passion and drive he has for this, his third solo outing, it sounds like all that was just the wind-up, and Portable Sounds is the pitch. The artist, producer, songwriter, industry leader and father of five was not the slightest bit interested in going through any motions. "Passion for my art drives me so long as I feel the Most High breathing new songs through me. I committed on this project that when writing and recording I will never rely on what has worked in the past and never fear what hasn't. The canvas is blank and the colors are endless."

As a result, a new lyrical flavor developed on a few of Portable's tracks. "I wanted to write a few songs that were simply prayers," he adds. "Over the years I have noticed some consistency in what I appeal to God for, like Help me remember what this is all about God I don't want to be that jaded man. I don't want to be that hardened artist. I want to remain soft in your hands, so that you can shape me into a vessel that you can breathe through.' I've been in multiple bands and on the road for a while, playing the same venues, visiting the same radio stations, working with the same label. My fight is to remain fresh, unjaded, where I'm not looking through hollow eyes, but I'm looking at things like they're new again. I expected amazing things while recording this record. I'm not talking about sales or first week numbers or critics. I'm talking about people's lives being touched by this music God is breathing through me. The wonder of it all remains and at any moment I want to be transported into uncharted recording waters not relying on my own understanding. That is why I continue to be passionate. I'm forever counting on what He'll do."