Even among the many singer-songwriter releases coming out recently, Graham Jones's new album, Eyes Renewed, stands out. With inspirations like Jon Foreman and Andrew Peterson (and possibly The Arcadian Wild), Eyes Renewed strikes a fascinating balance between an organic and full sound, managing to be emotionally captivating, unpretentiously intelligent, and elegantly uplifting.

The first five tracks are instantly attention-grabbing (especially "In The Arms of A Loving Father" and "Grateful"), and the back half of the album will win you over with time, thoughtful lyrics, and unique arrangements. The album has a loose yet cohesive theme about faithfully living the life God calls us to, regardless of the circumstances. It focuses on maintaining a right perspective in doing so, one that is free from envy and pity -- a challenge that is captured well through some truly personal details in the lyrics. It's also worth noting that the production of the album is spectacular, with Paul Demer and Sam Bowman at the helm.

From the bright acoustic guitar that opens "Open Spaces," to the contemplative strings that bring "Come Harvest Time" to its close, Graham Jones has infused Eyes Renewed with genuine heart and soul. It is truly a special musical accomplishment and a contender for album of the year.

- Review date: 8/16/25, written by Christopher Smith of Jesusfreakhideout.com

 

 Record Label: None
 Album length: 13 tracks: 51 minutes, 58 seconds
 Street Date: May 2, 2025
 Buy It: Bandcamp

1. Open Spaces (3:47)
2. In the Arms of a Loving Father (4:17)
3. Eyes Renewed (2:50)
4. When I Am Afraid (Psalm 56) (4:05)
5. Grateful (3:24)
6. Come On, Rain (2:50)
7. Set a Table (3:27)
8. Theseus in Oklahoma (4:45)
9. Henry Molaison (6:17)
10. When I Fall Down (3:16)
11. By Grace (Ephesians 2:1-10) (5:07)
12. O How the Grace of God Amazes Me (4:27)
13. Come Harvest Time (3:20)