Smooth melodies and slick guitar-led arrangements – Carlos Smith Jr. blends storytelling and catchy musicianship, with the five-track Christian rock project Somebody’s Prayin’.
Kicking into action with the upbeat Southern rock stomp and solos of Awesome, Smith Jr. is quick to engage listeners – that optimism and timeless rock guitar slide and sound crafting a quickly likeable vibe.
The title switches up the classic songs of praise, with an ode to the songwriter’s own son, whom frequently described things as Awesome during his younger years. It’s a fine introduction, as family values ring loud throughout the EP – this opening song sets the bar high, and with grace and passion united.
After this, Smith Jr. mellows things out beautifully, for the intimate acoustic finger-picking and heartfelt inspiration of Don’t Look Down.
Here we get a more crystal clear look at Faith and the teachings of The Bible, alongside that now unmistakable voice; expressive and gentle, distinct and welcoming.
This song reflects upon the story of Smith Jr.’s brother in law, on reading a letter he sent after a cancer diagnosis. The letter directly referred to the story of Peter, walking on water towards Jesus. Despite the difficulty of the situation, the song’s brightness, and this inspiring passage, helps create a sense of comfort amidst fear, and reminds listeners to focus on The Lord; to look up, not down at the water.
It’s a stunning acoustic folk song, and its depth and warmth prove wonderful, both heart-breaking and hopeful, for anyone who has been through similar struggles.
The EP features two classic hymns reimagined under a modern light. The first is the unmistakable Amazing Grace, here gifted an upbeat groove again, and well-placed at the mid-section of the project.
This is followed by the EP’s title-track, and the contrast is mighty. Somebody’s Prayin’ feels like a choir-led Gospel single, with a twist of optimistic guitar work, and an underlying intention to aptly unify listeners – a call to bring people together, at a time when we often feel more divided than ever.
Finally, Smith Jr’s reworking of Rock Of Ages helps further draw focus to the power of God, and the profound majesty of Faith; whenever the world seems to be testing it. The song has brightness, high energy, passionate vocals and rock guitars, and marks one last reminder of the energy, talent, and devotion that Carlos Smith Jr. brings to both rock and Christian music at large.
EP out July 25th. Find Carlos Smith Jr. on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X.
