Prime Cuts: "Jesus Loves," "Say A Prayer (feat. Thomas Rhett)," "I Killed A Man"
Overall Grade: 4.5/5
Two-time GRAMMY winner Zach Williams has steadily evolved from breakout newcomer to one of the most distinctive voices in modern Christian music, and his album Jesus Loves-now expanded in a deluxe edition-demonstrates exactly why. With its mix of southern rock grit, country storytelling, and gospel-rooted themes, the project stands as one of Williams' most compelling releases to date.
Williams first introduced the album with the Top 10 title track "Jesus Loves," a sweeping anthem that captures the heart of the record. Built on orchestral swells and Williams' unmistakable gravel-toned vocals, the song reminds listeners that the gospel begins with a simple but profound truth: the love of Jesus welcomes everyone. Its invitation-"Come on in, the door is open"-frames the entire project as a message aimed at misfits, prodigals, and longtime churchgoers alike.
Musically, Jesus Loves leans heavily into Williams' southern rock influences, evoking the classic sounds of bands like The Allman Brothers Band and The Marshall Tucker Band while still remaining firmly rooted in contemporary Christian music. Tracks like "Paradise" showcase this blend particularly well, pairing bluesy guitar textures with lyrics that look forward to the hope of the new heaven and new earth. The song manages to feel both nostalgic and fresh, proof that Williams understands the tradition of southern songwriting he draws from.
Perhaps the most striking moment on the album is "I Killed A Man," a bold and provocative title that quickly reveals itself as a meditation on baptism and spiritual rebirth. The song's imagery-drawing on the biblical idea of dying to the old self and rising into new life-gives Williams a chance to explore the deeper theological language of transformation found throughout Scripture. It's a daring track, but one that ultimately pays off thanks to Williams' sincerity and storytelling ability.
The deluxe edition adds several welcome highlights. "Say A Prayer," featuring country star Thomas Rhett, brings a warm country flavor that broadens the album's sonic palette, while "Wait For Me," featuring fellow Christian artist Ben Fuller, offers a reflective moment built on themes of patience, redemption, and faithfulness. The new studio version of "If God Lives Here" further reinforces the album's spiritual center, underscoring Williams' emphasis on God's presence in everyday life.
Elsewhere, songs like "Friend in High Places" and "The Potter (Nothing Is Wasted)" demonstrate Williams' ability to balance personal testimony with congregational accessibility. The latter track, with its stomping folk rhythm reminiscent of modern folk revival acts, carries a powerful reminder that God can redeem every broken piece of a believer's story.
The album also includes the lighthearted "Church Kids," a collaboration with CAIN that provides a playful moment amid the record's deeper themes. Its humor and sing-along spirit highlight Williams' ability to balance gravity with joy, reflecting the broad emotional range of the Christian life.
With four RIAA Platinum-certified singles already under his belt, Williams has proven he can write songs that resonate widely, and Jesus Loves (Deluxe) further solidifies that reputation. The record isn't simply a collection of worship songs-it's a deeply personal testimony shaped by the stories, struggles, and prayers of the past two years of Williams' life.
While a few moments tread familiar ground lyrically, the album's authenticity, strong songwriting, and rich production ultimately make it a powerful listening experience. At its core, Jesus Loves reminds listeners of a timeless truth: no matter where you've been, the love of Jesus still calls you home.
