Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong. for King & Country

Album Review: Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong. (Deluxe Anniversary Edition) by for KING & COUNTRY (2014)

1. Album Overview

Release Date: September 16, 2014
Genre: Christian Pop/Rock
Length: 18 Songs, 1 Hour, 6 Minutes

The Deluxe Anniversary Edition of Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong. solidifies for KING & COUNTRY’s position as one of the most innovative and heartfelt bands in contemporary Christian music. With its blend of anthemic choruses, poetic storytelling, and a cinematic production style, the album offers an inspiring journey of faith, resilience, and love. Featuring hits like “Fix My Eyes,” “Shoulders,” and collaborations with Andy Mineo and KB, this edition expands on the original release, adding depth and variety.

Score: 90/100 (Outstanding)

2. Technical Mastery

This album is a masterclass in production quality. The orchestral arrangements in “Shoulders” and the explosive energy of “Run Wild” (featuring Andy Mineo) showcase for KING & COUNTRY’s ability to merge pop-rock and cinematic influences seamlessly. Every track is polished without losing its emotional rawness. The inclusion of spoken interludes like “Epilogue” and instrumental moments like “Prelude (Fix My Eyes)” further enhances the listening experience. Guest features add diversity, while the duo’s vocals remain at the heart of the record.

Score: 92/100 (Exceptional)

3. Artistic Depth

Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong. dives into profound themes of perseverance, freedom, and spiritual redemption. Tracks like “Priceless” and “It’s Not Over Yet” highlight the duo’s ability to tackle sensitive topics like self-worth and hope with both vulnerability and strength. The inclusion of tracks such as “Without You” (a duet with Luke Smallbone's wife, Courtney) adds personal and intimate moments. While expansive, the album maintains its cohesion through a consistent focus on hope and faith.

Score: 88/100 (Excellent)

4. Audience Appeal

With anthems like “Fix My Eyes” and “Shoulders,” the album appeals to both Christian audiences and mainstream listeners seeking uplifting, well-crafted music. Collaborations with Andy Mineo (“Run Wild”) and KB (“O God Forgive Us”) bring a fresh and dynamic edge, broadening its reach to fans of hip-hop and contemporary worship. The Deluxe Anniversary Edition, with its added tracks like “Wholehearted” and “Matter,” offers long-time fans new reasons to revisit the album.

Score: 90/100 (Outstanding)

5. Standout Moments

• “Fix My Eyes”: A vibrant anthem with an infectious chorus and an inspiring message about prioritizing faith and values.

• “Shoulders”: A deeply emotional and cinematic ballad showcasing the duo’s vocal and lyrical strengths.

• “Run Wild” (feat. Andy Mineo): An energetic, genre-blending track that delivers a powerful call to live freely and fully.

• “Without You”: A tender and heartfelt duet that stands out for its emotional depth and personal touch.

6. Final Verdict

The Deluxe Anniversary Edition of Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong. is a triumph of artistry and faith. It balances radio-ready hooks with profound lyrical depth, making it one of for KING & COUNTRY’s defining works. The extended tracklist provides additional treasures while maintaining the integrity and vision of the original album. This is a must-listen for anyone seeking encouragement, hope, and exceptional music.

Overall Score: 90/100 (Outstanding)
Qualitative Rating: A moving, expertly crafted album that uplifts and inspires.