Land of the Living by Jason Gray

Singer-songwriter Jason Gray never shies away from discussing the full human experience in his music, and his latest release, Land of the Living, is no exception. Twelve tracks take listeners on a journey that promotes conversation. “I now see songwriting as trying to offer healing language to the world,” said Gray in a release. “… It’s about me trying to love the audience well by writing words that might help them express things they need better language for.” The music is fun and bouncy with a soft ballad or two included. “When I Say Yes” is a sing-along tune about opening up to God’s possibilities when we say yes. “Jesus Loves You and I’m Trying” provides some humor and ends with whistling. The gripping song, “Worth Staying For,” is probably Gray’s most personal song ever, revealing how his father abandoned him as a child and how he later went through a difficult divorce. “I was scared to release that one, because as a writer, you don’t want to be the victim or hero of your songs,” Gray said. This record makes listeners take notice with relatable themes and a professional sound. (Centricity Music)