With its haunting lyrics and country and western swing, “What Would Jesus Do?” reigns as the opening jewel on an album full of relevance and remarkable musicianship. The tune, co-written by Chris Thomas King and Gary Nicholson, was composed and recorded while the noted New Orleans blues man and actor was in Nashville following Hurricane Katrina. Chosen to be released as a single and video, “What Would Jesus Do?” speaks of those early days following the storm when those securing necessities like water and food were often labeled looters. Tonally and emotionally similar, King’s self-penned “Faith” sways with a gospel flavor accented by the addition of an organ and the leader’s preaching vocals. On the lament “Flow Mississippi Flow,” he sings, “Business man survey my land / Can’t wait until I’m gone.”

King has always been a solid singer, though he’s more noted for his informed guitar work. Here, however, his vocals really stand out, grabbing the listener with their emotional impact. Though Katrina isn’t the subject of the gospel tune “Deepest Ocean,” King’s heartfelt delivery that’s touched with falsetto makes it fit with the more themed presentations. Even the over-recorded chestnut “What a Wonderful Life” benefits from his tender treatment. It, “St. James Infirmary” and the lovely Irish ballad “’Tis the Last Rose of Summer,” performed in tribute to his mother, stand as the only non-originals on the 11-cut disc.

Chris Thomas King, the self-described 21st Century blues man with an ear to the future, has traversed many musical boundaries. Rise further unveils King’s multi-faceted talents as a country and western singer, gospel keyboardist and preacher, and even Irish balladeer. The consummate blues man keeps growing and surprising on Rise, a heart-touching album full of musical richness.