Chris Tomlin "The King Is Still The King" Album Review

Prime Cuts: How Good It Is, Still the King, He Has Done Great Things 

Overall Grade: 4/5

With The King Is Still The King, Chris Tomlin doesn't just release an album; he orchestrates a jubilant celebration of God's eternal reign, where every note, every lyric, and every collaboration lifts the listener into worshipful awe.This 18th studio album features a mix of new compositions, reimagined classics, and collaborative tracks, showcasing Tomlin's signature blend of contemporary worship, anthem-like ballads, and congregational-ready choruses. Drawing inspiration from Scripture and the natural world, the album integrates elements like soaring guitars, cinematic strings, and subtle percussive flourishes to create a sense of grandeur, while still maintaining moments of intimate reflection. Guest artists including Phil Wickham, Aodhán King, Jamie MacDonald, and CalledOut Music add depth and variety, contributing to the album's layered and celebratory sound. From high-energy anthems to reflective hymns, the album attempts to balance stadium-sized worship moments with more contemplative passages, offering listeners both familiarity and occasional surprise.  

"How Good It Is," the album's lead single co-written with Jess Cates and Jordan Mohilowski, bursts forth as a joyful anthem inspired by Psalms 92, 98, 100, and 113. Its uplifting lyrics celebrate God's Word, making it a resonant and powerful song for congregational worship. Tracks like "Still the King" exemplify Tomlin's hallmark approach: a high-powered ballad that crowns Jesus in glory, combining soaring vocals with emphatic instrumentation. "He Has Done Great Things," featuring Phil Wickham, revisits a Bethel Music classic, reimagined with polished production that makes it feel both fresh and familiar. 

"Doesn't He" is a contemplative and heartfelt track that invites listeners to reflect on the depth and faithfulness of God's character. Through gentle melodies and introspective lyrics, the song highlights God's constant presence, His guiding hand in daily life, and the ways He works unseen yet powerfully in the world. Its reflective tone provides a quieter, more intimate moment on the album, offering a space for personal meditation amid the larger, high-energy worship anthems. "My Father's World," featuring Aodhán King, Jamie MacDonald, and CalledOut Music, transforms the old hymn into a contemporary, reverent piece, while "Rivers of Joy" departs from the stadium-rock template, venturing into folkish-country territory-a refreshing breath of air in the midst of the album. Tomlin also revives "You Are My King (Amazing Love)," reminding listeners of his enduring anthemic craft.

Yet, for all its highlights, the album remains fairly predictable. Big-chorus explosions and emotive vocals dominate, and the lyrics rarely move beyond familiar worship clichés. Safe and polished, the album delivers comfort and uplift but offers little in the way of musical risk or innovation. In the end, The King Is Still The King is a solid, celebratory worship album-perfect for congregational sing-alongs and personal devotion-but ultimately safe territory for listeners craving something more adventurous.

 

 

 

Tags : Chris Tomlin "The King Is Still The King" Album Review Chris Tomlin