American Prodigal cover

Released 10 years ago

American Prodigal

Crowder · 2016

66 min · 17 tracks · contemporary Christian music

A vibrant blend of contemporary Christian sounds infused with Southern rock and gospel influences, creating an uplifting atmosphere throughout.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Run Devil Run — This track combines an infectious rhythm with a message of empowerment, serving as a rallying cry against negativity and spiritual warfare.
  • →
    My Victory — With its anthemic chorus and profound lyrics, this song encapsulates the theme of triumph through faith, resonating deeply with listeners seeking hope.
  • →
    All My Hope — Featuring a soulful collaboration with vocals from Tauren Wells, this track emphasizes reliance on faith amidst struggles, effectively bridging personal testimony with communal worship.
  • →
    Forgiven — This song’s reflective lyrics and melodic composition poignantly address themes of grace and redemption, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album blends energetic contemporary Christian sounds with reflective moments, showcasing Crowder's evolution as an artist.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a spoken word intro that sets a thematic tone, followed by a high-energy track that establishes the vibrant sound.
  • Several tracks feature call-and-response vocals, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the communal feel typical of gospel music.
  • The last three tracks slow down significantly, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the earlier upbeat songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • uplifting moments for group singing
  • short tracks for quick engagement
  • energetic anthems for celebration
  • reflective pauses amidst vibrant energy
  • cathartic releases of joy

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking long, immersive experiences
  • prefering subdued, quiet atmospheres

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2016, American Prodigal was Crowder's first full-length album after departing from the successful group David Crowder Band. This album marked a significant moment in his solo career, showcasing his artistic evolution as he embraced a more diverse musical palette while maintaining his faith-driven themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Chris Tomlin· Passion· Elevation Worship

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • My Victory

    The bridge shifts into a powerful declaration of overcoming fear and doubt through faith.

    By amplifying the assertive tone at this crucial point, the writing transforms personal struggle into collective assurance, inviting listeners to join in that declaration.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 American Intro 1:33
  • 2 Keep Me 4:02
  • 3 Run Devil Run 3:26
  • 4 My Victory 4:17
  • 5 Prove It 2:36
  • 6 All You Burdens 2:25
  • 7 Back to the Garden 4:15
  • 8 Forgiven 3:56
  • 9 Promised Land (Glory, Hallelujah) 4:48
  • 10 All My Hope 4:13
  • 11 Shouting Grounds 3:41
  • 12 Shepherd 4:01
  • 13 All We Sinners 4:34
  • 14 American Outro 5:11
  • 15 Praise the Lord 4:13
  • 16 Great Rejoicing 3:43
  • 17 American I/O 4:59

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata