From its opening track, Come to the River demonstrates its Southern rock bona fides with twang-laden vocals, searing slide guitar, and swampy ambiance. The key element that distinguishes this Nashville-based outfit from similar groups is its collective Christian faith. Lead singer/guitarist Walker brings a compelling backstory as a rebellious preacher’s son to the project, steeping his tunes in Biblical content while serving up a gritty, roots-based sonic gumbo that suggests The Black Crowes, The Allman Brothers, and Third Day in various combinations. “Gonna Be Alright,” “Make Me New,” and “Can't Break Me” carry a convincing guitar bite, along with a theme of spiritual revival. Slower numbers like “Brother” and “Singing Stone” (featuring vocals by All Sons & Daughters’ David Leonard and Leslie Jordon, respectively) have a bittersweet quality that shades into alt-country terrain. “When Mercy Found Me” provides a radio-friendly entry point into the album’s redemptive message. It's a highly promising first effort, fusing an outlaw’s fiery spirit with a believer’s passion.