Probably the biggest change in Eric Champion's songwriting is his lyrics: While Transformation heralds a new image and sound, those changes are simply extensions of the spiritual and mental changes Champion has undergone as he comes of age. With producers Charlie Peacock and Rick Will, Champion has left behind the push-button adult contemporary techno-praise, in favor of a warmer, more human, rock 'n' roll machine. The pop melodies are still firmly in place, but are now dressed up in electric guitars and a live rhythm section. In the past, his songs were sometimes naive; lately, Champion has been asking the hard questions and admitting his failings to God and to the world. But, while his faith may have been shaken, Champion stands fast: "Do with me what you will, I got to stand. I'm not leaving you/ Because I wanna do what He wants me to do." When all is said and done, Eric Champion is still a popster. Fortunately, in the wake of recent releases from dc Talk and Jars of Clay--which proved that "Christian pop" can be vital and interesting and even up-to-date--Champion has arrived at a very good place. Transformation is not so much a record from a brand-new person as it is the record we've always expected him to make.