Just as I Am cover

Just as I Am

Paul Brandt · 2012

47 min · 12 tracks · country music

A heartfelt collection of traditional hymns rendered with country-inflected sincerity and emotional depth.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    How Great Thou Art — Brandt's rendition highlights the grandeur and reverence of the original hymn while incorporating subtle country instrumentation that enriches its emotional weight.
  • →
    Just as I Am — The title track encapsulates the album's theme of acceptance and grace, featuring a poignant delivery that connects deeply with listeners seeking solace.
  • →
    Amazing Grace — This iconic hymn is delivered with a fresh perspective, showcasing Brandt's ability to infuse traditional material with personal authenticity and warmth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album effectively blends traditional hymns with country elements, showcasing solid craftsmanship and emotional resonance.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent arrangement of traditional hymns, each track maintaining a similar tempo and instrumentation.
  • Vocals are prominently featured, often layered with harmonies that enhance the emotional delivery of the lyrics.
  • Several tracks incorporate instrumental interludes that allow for reflection between verses, creating a meditative quality.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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

  • reflective moments of spiritual connection
  • heartfelt sing-alongs with loved ones
  • gentle pacing for quiet contemplation
  • comforting background for gatherings
  • nostalgic echoes of tradition

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of high-energy tracks
  • prefer modern, upbeat sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2012, 'Just as I Am' marks Paul Brandt's return to the music scene after a hiatus, showcasing his exploration of faith through classic hymns. This album followed his previous work in contemporary country and solidified his commitment to blending country music with spiritual themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Brad Paisley· Alan Jackson· Tim McGraw

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Amazing Grace 5:49
  • 2 I'll Fly Away 3:32
  • 3 How Great Thou Art 4:14
  • 4 Just as I Am 3:57
  • 5 Jesus Loves Me 1:05
  • 6 I Come to the Garden Alone 4:40
  • 7 Why Me 3:50
  • 8 The Old Rugged Cross 3:47
  • 9 It Is Well With My Soul 6:04
  • 10 When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder 2:50
  • 11 Flee as a Bird 3:12
  • 12 Life's Railway to Heaven 4:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata