The Choir have been around the block a few times but after 30 years together, they are as passionate as ever about making inspirational and thought-provoking music.

Their 14th studio album, The Loudest Sound Ever Heard, is out on 15 May and sees the band explore what it means to give up control and rely on God.

Love, despair, light, dark, hope and recovery are just some of the themes that crop up in this contemplative album.

The album title takes its name from the infamous volcanic explosion on the Indonesian island of Krakatoa in the late 19th century, considered to be the loudest sound ever heard.

Drummer and lyricist Steve Hindalong explains. “I referred to that tragic occurrence in the first verse of the song ‘I'm Learning to Fly,’ which is thematically central to the album. It’s about living each day like it truly matters. ‘Living to love in a dying world.’ Such catastrophic events remind us of our vulnerability, and how we ought to celebrate every breath."

With so many years behind them, the band feel more experienced but thankfully, they haven't lost any of the excitement they felt when they first got together to make music.

Lead vocalist Derri Daugherty says, “At this point in our life as a band, we know each other really well and sincerely appreciate what we each bring to the creative process. So every time we get an itch to make another record it's fun and new.

"It's like we've got the excitement we had when we were younger, wanting to make great music, as well as the confidence that comes with experience.”

Hindalong continues, "There is also a figurative reference to the title – ‘A true friend's heart is the loudest sound ever heard' - in the song ‘Melodious,’ which is a tribute to our long time friend and bandmate, Tim Chandler. Incidentally, Tim introduced Derri and I back in 1979 and we’ve been making music together ever since!”

The final song on the album, ‘After All,’ features a stunning duet with Leigh Nash of Sixpence None the Richer.

“We’ve known Leigh since way back,” says Daugherty, “She’s a friend and one of my favorite singers ever. We’re thrilled that she was able to sing on this project. Matt Slocum [Sixpence guitarist] also played cello on a couple of songs. Those guys are great.”

Saxophone player Dan Michaels is happy with where the band is at.

“I’m so glad we get to keep doing records like this,” he shares. "Here we are standing together 30 years down the line and we still love and respect each other. It’s amazing, really.”

Daugherty adds, “We are fortunate to have such devoted listeners after all these years. That’s what keeps us motivated to continue making music. In that way we are lucky and blessed, and I’m thankful.”

Hindalong concludes: “We don’t pretend to have the answers. We are still struggling, still wandering and seeking; but if our music inspires listeners to consider important things with open hearts, well, that’s a good thing. Hopefully, the spirit of love will stir within and the truth will resonate.”