Album Spotlight: Jordan Feliz, ‘Everything Good’

Posted on Sunday, October 6, 2024 by Lindsay Williams

Album Spotlight: "Everything Good" Jordan Feliz
 

If you could sum up Jordan Feliz’s fourth studio album in one word, it would undoubtedly be gratitude. Nearly a decade into his career, the Platinum-selling singer has officially entered his thankful era on “Everything Good.” That’s not to say that on his previous work Feliz was ungrateful, it’s simply that he’s seen the value in gratitude.

It’s no secret Feliz has struggled with anxiety — even experiencing his share of panic attacks. Since 2020’s “Say It,” the father of two has addressed the topic with a hefty dose of raw honesty, his insecurities laid bare. In contrast, “Everything Good” reveals a calmer version of Feliz that’s more comfortable in his own artistic skin than ever before, as well as a maturing husband and father better equipped to handle his propensity toward paralyzing fear.

“When we know who’s in control, who our provider is and where the good comes from — that’s when we start seeing anxiety disappear,” Feliz offers. “God has already given us the tools. We just have to be proactive in our relationship with Jesus and put what we know into practice. How we counteract anxiety is what this record is really all about.”

On “Everything Good,” Feliz replicates his personal toolbox, opening it up to others so that they can benefit from his own hard-earned lessons. Across the album’s 11 originals, his stance is clear: Feliz is a thankful man. He’s thankful for the things that matter most — his wife, his children, his Savior — and he’s discovered that gratitude is the actual anecdote for anxiety. As Feliz can attest, it’s hard to worry when you’re busy counting your blessings.

The title-cut acknowledges the ultimate source of everything good this side of heaven via a moody piano-laced pop selection, while current single “Praise God For That” gives credit where credit is due across an airy offering that finds Feliz’s voice in fine form.

Bookending “Everything Good” with positive reinforcements, Feliz opens the record with praise and closes it with the simple truth of God’s everlasting love. Breezy West Coast pop beats color the high-energy project, and nowhere is this more evident than on “The King Is Alive.” The lead single evokes Pacific Coast Highway vibes even as it celebrates a God who is an active participant in the lives of His kids.

Meanwhile, the California native brings his signature pop to a modernized version of “Amazing Grace” on “How Sweet the Sound,” an obvious standout. His interpolation of the classic hymn makes the future hit feel immediately familiar despite its entirely new verses and arrangement.

The powerful “Gallows” proves to be another heavy hitter. Its dark title belies its triumphant message — one that speaks of real redemption and hope. Written for a friend who miraculously overcame a long struggle with addiction, the anthem is truly a celebration of transformation. Further down the tracklisting, “Can’t Lose” and “Armor” offer additional tools in the kit to encourage listeners that we have everything we need in Christ to fight our battles.

One of the project’s most cleverly crafted selections is buried in track three, “Let You Go.” The song extends far beyond the title as Feliz emotively sings of how God will often let us go through hard things in order to refine our character — something the award winner himself has experienced time and time again.

The originals — all co-penned by Feliz — unveiled on “Everything Good” are some of the hitmaker’s most polished to date. Sonically, they’re forward-thinking, pulling in progressive elements at every turn. From a pop perspective, it’s a really easy listen from front to back. Lyrically, these songs comprise some of Feliz’s best work, showcasing his growth as a songwriter. Vocally, his voice has never sounded so rich and never felt more sincere.

“Everything Good” isn’t some peaceful balm for anxiety, nor is it a formula for how to dissolve it overnight. It’s simply a series of helpful Post-it Notes from a guy who’s already walked in the shoes of anyone who’s ever been anxious. Now, Feliz is the one standing on the other side of fear, cheering fellow worriers on with a great deal of heart and a whole lot of gratitude.

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Album SpotlightJordan FelizMusicNew MusicInterview

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