Review By Halina Wegner
After nearly two decades, Southern rock legends Donnie and Johnny Van Zant reunite for their long-awaited album Always Look Up, set to release on November 22, 2024, via Frontiers Music SRL. Known for their deep roots in Southern rock through bands like .38 Special and Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Van Zant brothers now bring a fresh perspective to their sound, blending their trademark grit with Christian rock influences. This spiritual pivot marks a new chapter in their career, yet their signature Southern sound remains intact.
Always Look Up dives into a powerful blend of faith and rock, with anthemic, soul-stirring tracks that showcase their spiritual awakening while holding firm to the raw, authentic style that made them icons.
The album opens with Awesome God, a reverent Southern rock anthem that sets the tone for the record. Featuring soaring guitars by Mark Matejka and Carl Lindquist and Johnny Van Zant’s powerful vocals, the track blends worship with the swagger of their Southern roots. The harmonies and slide guitar give it a distinctively Van Zant flair, making it clear that the duo hasn’t lost their edge.
Stand Up keeps the energy high, offering a rousing call to action for listeners to stay strong in their faith. The drums and percussion by Shawn Fichter drive the track forward, while the lyrics encourage resilience and conviction. It’s a perfect follow-up, mixing hard-hitting rock elements with a message of hope.
The emotionally charged Warrior taps into the Van Zant legacy of bold, anthemic songwriting. This track is filled with grit and determination, celebrating the strength found through faith. With thundering bass lines from Jimmy Carter and searing guitar solos, it’s an empowering song that will resonate deeply with fans of both Christian and Southern rock.
Slowing things down, There You Are is a heartfelt ballad that showcases the duo’s softer side. Donnie Van Zant’s soulful guitar work shines here, paired beautifully with Johnny’s reflective vocals. The lyrics are deeply personal, offering a touching message of God’s presence in life’s toughest moments.
The album takes a powerful turn with Speak His Name, an infectious track with a gospel undertone. The combination of the brothers’ harmonies and the rich keyboard textures from Jeffrey Roach, Chris Hurst, and Dennis Wage brings a spiritual depth that complements the rock instrumentation.
Midway through the album, Why God Brought Me Here delivers a stirring introspective moment, where the Van Zants reflect on purpose and destiny. This track combines their signature Southern rock sound with moving spiritual themes, making it a standout both lyrically and musically.
Praying continues the album’s thematic journey, offering a raw and honest portrayal of seeking divine intervention. The band’s chemistry is on full display here, with tight instrumentation and an emotional vocal delivery from Johnny that draws listeners in.
It’s Up to You brings back the swagger, with a driving rhythm section and a defiant tone that reminds fans of their classic Southern rock days. While the lyrics focus on faith and personal responsibility, the song’s structure and energy are unmistakably Van Zant.
In the album’s final stretch, Holy Moment brings an atmospheric, almost worshipful vibe, while Leaning on the Cross delivers another emotional high point, driven by acoustic guitars and introspective lyrics. These tracks offer moments of peace and reflection amidst the powerful, rock-driven energy of the album.
The album closes with Jesus Christ, a climactic end that combines both the spiritual depth and Southern rock grandeur that Van Zant fans expect. It’s a fitting finale, encapsulating the duo’s faith journey and newfound direction, all while staying true to their musical roots.
Verdict: Always Look Up is a triumphant return for the Van Zant brothers, offering an inspiring blend of faith-filled lyrics and the Southern rock sound that made them icons. With a mix of high-energy anthems and reflective ballads, the album stands as both a bold declaration of faith and a love letter to the genre they helped define. Fans of Van Zant, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and .38 Special will find plenty to enjoy, while new listeners will appreciate the spiritual depth and emotional power of this faith-driven record.
The Van Zants’ ability to maintain their authentic Southern rock style while branching into Christian music proves that they are still at the top of their game, nearly 20 years after their last release. Always Look Up is not just a comeback album—it’s a bold, uplifting statement.
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