How to Be Loved

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.