/Christian News/ — Sanctus Real returns with their new studio album Pieces of a Real Heart. Working with acclaimed producers Chris Stevens (Tobymac, Sanctus Real, Matthew West) and Jason Ingram & Rusty Varenkamp (Tenth Avenue North, Rush of Fools, Bebo Norman) this album finds the band maturing and growing as songwriters and individuals. Pieces of a Real Heart is the sound of a rock band retaining their aggressive edge but incorporating more diverse musical instrumentation and sounds – as heard on the debut single “Forgiven”.

With over 350,000 career units sold, Sanctus Real has a strong radio history with 6 #1 CHR singles, 6 Top 5 singles and 2 AC Top 20 singles. Their debut single “Forgiven” is already connecting with radio listeners, and explores the theme of forgiveness in a profound and simple way. “The working-out of forgiveness is so key to our growth and maturity as followers of Jesus,” says lead singer Matt Hammitt. “The very idea that we have been forgiven for so much wrong moves, reforms, transforms and heals us. As we were framing ‘Forgiven’ around this concept, we realized that this was such a fundamental aim for all of us – to forgive and be forgiven.”

The standout track “Lead Me” is further evidence of the band’s musical and lyrical growth, as the song follows a husband striving to lead his wife and family. Already getting a strong response live, the song will further connect with listeners when it’s released to radio in early 2010.