JWLKRS Worship Curates the Quintessential Worship Playlist With First EP
JWLKRS Worship packages all of their singles thus far into one playlist on their debut EP, “Here I Am.” The group has only been releasing original worship songs since 2023, but in only a year’s time, they’ve swiftly become one of Christian music’s most buzzed-about acts. Admittedly, part of their appeal extends beyond their songs, instigated by the Schnacky siblings, their spouses and their friends.
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JWLKRS began as a movement birthed out of a series of regular worship nights. The growing collective, made up of enthusiastic 20-somethings, wanted to encourage their peers to “walk like Jesus.” Now with an online discipleship component and a popular podcast, JWLKRS consistently leverages their social media content to reach the next generation of Christ followers. Their music works hand in hand with their online content, offering a unique multimedia approach to discipleship that’s both comfortable and attractive to Gen Z.
Their first EP, however, proves their music is more than strategic algorithms or viral hits. There’s an unexpected depth and authenticity to “Here I Am” that easily invites listeners into the fold from a much wider demographic. The title-cut, for instance, is anchored by an arresting classical piano arrangement, accented by a guest vocal from “American Idol” alum Ashley Hess. The poignant ballad offers a sweet moment of submission, acknowledging our availability to be used by God when we intentionally choose to turn down the noise and tune into His will. As the collection’s only new selection, “Here I Am” is a welcome addition with its dreamy soundscape and contemplative lyrics.
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The EP’s four other offerings are previously released tracks, as JWLKRS gradually builds its catalog. Bright, triumphant declaration “In the Name of Jesus” (feat. Chandler Moore)” opens the batch and reminds listeners why the group’s latest single is so infectious. Finding power in simply speaking the name of Jesus, JWLKRS Worship serves up a rally cry of hope for a new generation of worshipers.
The female-led, string-laden “In the Presence” follows the eloquent title track and affirms the group’s collective desire to not only access the power of Jesus but to also be in His presence — for the pure delight of it — as they assert that we can never be separated from the ever-present love of God. The reverent offering is succeeded by the group’s very first release, 2023’s “Silence,” an aptly-named song born out of the forced respite of the pandemic that affirms God is at work even when He remains silent. Former rising country music hopeful and one of JWLKRS’ most prominent singers and songwriters, Noah Schnacky, helms the passionate selection’s lead vocals.
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The five-track effort concludes with JWLKRS’ most celebrated song to date, “I Thank God.” The acclaimed collaboration with Housefires and Ryan Ellis ascended to the top of the radio charts last fall after it became a global anthem sung in churches around the world. With its tribal tones and contagious bridge, “I Thank God” pulsates with pure gratitude.
Although four out of five of the EP’s selections are already familiar, “Here I Am” whets the appetite of listeners, who will undoubtedly run hard through the playlist and be left wanting more. Hopefully, this inaugural gathering of songs signals a full-length project is in the works. JWLKRS is certainly showing no signs of slowing down. If anything, “Here I Am” simply proves the group is only getting started. And if they’re helping shape the future of modern worship music, then it appears the genre is in very good hands.
Fans can catch JWLKRS Worship on the road this fall with Maverick City Music on the “Good News Tour.”
