Morning Rises

Background

The album was released on July 16, 2013 by Centricity Music, which it was produced by Ed Cash, and it was the fifth studio album for Shust's career.

Critical reception

Morning Rises garnered positive reception from music critics.

At Alpha Omega News, Ken Weigman stated that he "benefited from the encouragement already", and he is "sure that it will be an ongoing experience with 'Morning Rises.'" At Worship Leader, Greg Wallace stated that "Aaron Shust has come back bearing a project that’s both powerful and accessible, brimming with poetry and hope." About.com's Kim Jones stated that "it's pretty much a guarantee that at least one or two songs will go on to become "worship standards" in the church." At New Release Tuesday, Dawn Teresa said that "the result is a more personal, energetic sound which captures his reinvigorated spirit." At Cross Rhythms, Tony Cummings called this yet "Another outstanding album from the consistent Mr Shust."

Andrew Funderburk of CM Addict wrote that "it is obvious this comes from a true heart of worship and not just trying to write lyrics in order to sell another record", and he called it "simply passionate!" At Christian Music Review, Laura Chambers noted that "If you're going through a crisis of faith, a dry spell, or even if you’re where you ought to be, Morning Rises is an affirming, life giving reminder of God’s provision for us." Michael Dalton at The Phantom Tollbooth wrote that "Morning Rises is fresh evidence that there is more to Shust then 'My Savior My God,'" and felt that "everything here as much and more than that celebrated song."

At CCM Magazine, Matt Conner felt that the album "focused on the greater theme of God's faithfulness, Aaron Shust offers a message of hope to his fans on Morning Rises." Jonathan Andre of Indie Vision Music called the release "enjoyable and inspired". Bert Gangl of The Phantom Tollbooth wrote that "Rises isn't bad by any stretch of the imagination", but cautioned that some listeners "are liable to be disappointed", so he said that some buyers might "cherry pick" songs to download. In addition, Gangl wrote for Jesus Freak Hideout that "Morning Rises comes across as a far more unified and coherent whole."

Commercial performance

For the Billboard charting week of August 3, 2013, Morning Rises was the No. 14 most sold album in Christian market via the Christian Albums charting.