NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Made New, the second full-length studio recording from acclaimed singer/songwriter Justin Gambino, is set to release August 25. Tracing his prodigal years and the abounding grace and mercy Gambino embraced when he finally returned to the Father, Made New was produced by Nashville-based session player and producer Walter Halliwell.
An autobiographical collection of emotive pop anthems and vulnerable ballads, Made New features 13 selections all written or co-penned by Gambino. Lead single “Fighting On My Behalf,” a percolating, synth-infused pop track available on digital platforms July 28, is Gambino’s personal testimony to God’s steadfast love and care.
“As an artist who desires to reach and encourage people in their own journey, it can be quite exhausting out on the road,” he says of the inspiration behind “Fighting On My Behalf.” “Touring will always come with opposition and setbacks, but it’s so important to press on and remember Who goes before me. Exodus 14:14 says, ‘The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.’ At a time in my life when I was facing schedule changes, cancelled events and the loss of income, I needed to remind myself to be still and take heart that God was fighting for me.”
Additional highlights of Made New include “Mercy,” a modern psalm of gratitude available August 11 upon pre-order of the album; the poignant “A Father’s Heart,” a simple plea for God’s revelation amidst struggle and unbelief; “Bring Me Home,” the encapsulation of Gambino’s prodigal journey; and the album’s buoyant folk-rock opener, “Courage.”
“’Courage’ was inspired by all the people who have encouraged me on this journey, and I hope it encourages them in return,” Gambino shares. “The only way I can continue each day is to look to the One who breathes His very breath into my lungs. He keeps me from letting go or losing hope. My prayer for this song is that it will be an anthem for those who need that reminder as well.”
Gambino is showcasing selections from the forthcoming recording during his “Made New” headlining tour, which kicked off earlier this week in Vernon, Texas. The multi-city Southwest and Pacific Northwest outing is slated to stop in Carlsbad, New Mexico; Idaho Falls, Idaho; Yreka, California; and Vantage, Washington, among other cities this summer and fall.
