Since his 2003 debut, Todd Agnew has avoided grand sweeping gestures in favor of more personal testimony about his Christian walk. How To Be Loved finds the singer/songwriter offering both thoughtful homilies and fervent hosannas in musical settings that draw on Southern rock and contemporary folk-pop influences. Agnew’s voice remains his most distinct feature; it's a resonant, raspy instrument that captures quiet dignity and inner strength. “Love Your Neighbor” sets an inclusive note for the album with its gently twanging guitars, gliding groove, and compassionate message. A swampy blues-rock vibe pervades “Give What’s in Your Hand,” adding some edge to Agnew’s call to spiritual action. “Loved” veers in a Jason Mraz–like direction that gives Todd a chance to show off the falsetto end of his normally gruff vocals. Stirring praise numbers like “God Undefeatable” and “Your Great Name” are contrasted with humble expressions of a believer’s struggles in “House of Boxes” and “Don’t You Think.” Agnew does it all with a guy-next-door sort of charm that doesn’t disguise his unshakable commitment to Christ.