Justin Gambino's 'Just Like Jesus' EP Spotlights A Prodigal's New Life
Illuminating the joys and struggles of a post-prodigal life with refreshing candor and profound gratitude, award-winning singer/songwriter Justin Gambino bows his Residence Music debut EP, Just Like Jesus, July 18. Rooted in his signature soul-fueled, folk-rock sound, the project features five selections co-penned by Gambino and produced by his longtime collaborator Walter Halliwell.
From the wayward son’s welcome home to a man fully surrendered to Christ, the autobiographical set testifies to God’s faithfulness in Gambino’s life. “Writing and recording this EP has not only been a reminder of what God has brought me through, but also where He's taking me,†he says. “It has given me a new perspective to see other prodigals, as I continue to share my heart through music.â€
Penned by Gambino, Halliwell and James Tealy, the standout title cut is a celebration of grace, charting a definitive course for the EP. Additional highlights of Just Like Jesus include “You Were Always There,†chronicling God’s pursuit of Gambino during his military deployment in Iraq; the buoyant “Wake Me Up,†a reminder of the need for daily revival in the Lord; “Good Intentions,†an introspective plea for forgiveness and authenticity; and “Judas In Me,†written by Gambino along with Walter and Holly Halliwell. The latter track is one of Gambino’s most vulnerable songs to date.
“Mark Batterson’s book Not Safe sparked the inspiration for ‘Judas In Me,’†Gambino explains. "It’s about the daily battle of the flesh—that somewhere deep inside of all of us, there is a spirit of Judas. Knowing Judas would betray Him, Jesus still called him a friend and there was still a place at the table for him. All too often I've betrayed my Savior, without the intention of doing so, yet time and time again He calls me a friend and invites me to the table of grace.â€
In support of the Just Like Jesus EP, Gambino is set to hit the road June 22 with stops throughout the Southwest, Midwest and Pacific Northwest this summer and fall. “I can see how God has been setting up divine appointments for me to minister to people who are on the same path I was,†he shares. “Those opportunities largely happen out on the road, which is why I'm really excited to take these songs from the studio to the streets.â€
