I know I'm not alone when I say that John Van Deusen has become one of my favorite artists in the modern era, thanks in part to the high quality of each and every album he's released so far. And he keeps pumping out great music on nearly an annual basis at this point. After his aggressive rock album, Anthem Sprinter, in 2024, Van Deusen took a sharp left turn last year, delivering his first ever CCM-style worship album. Unsurprisingly, and despite the album having 18 tracks, he somehow had more ready to go, which now comprise this year's offering, As Long As I Am in the Tent of This Body I Will Make A Joyful Noise Pt. 2.

Pt. 2 takes the album length a step or two further, with 20 tracks this time around (19 songs and one music-less closing track). The songs are very similar to those on the first part, though, as Van Deusen focuses his efforts on writing songs of praise for Jesus and attempting to not worry about pleasing anyone else. This results in songs that are far more accessible and even (dare I say it?) occasionally radio-friendly. I could honestly imagine the bouncy pop jam, "Joyful Noise," or the contemplative "Mountain Mover," being picked up by K-LOVE.

Regardless of radio potential, most songs here could be adapted into church worship services. Some of them may require some adaptation, such as cutting out the noise rock ending of "A Call To Worship" (which I could've done without, as well; I appreciate what he was going for, and I like loud JVD, but this section really took me out of the moment). But it's a great invitation to come in to God's presence, with a really great synth intro and lyrics that beckon the listener in ("Come let Him love you, come let Him know you / come let Him hold you in His grace until the end / come let Him clothe you in righteous armor / come let Him hold you in His grace until the end"). "The Lord Our God, The Lord Is One" is another great example of a congregational song, where Van Deusen incorporates Scripture as he praises God and looks to Him for guidance through life. It sounds like a song and message that could easily bring the body into unity as they all sing along.

One thing about Pt. 2 that distinguishes it from Pt. 1, as well as JVD's discography in general, is the host of guest vocalists. Ten of the twenty tracks have a guest feature of some sort, and they actually all shine. The aforementioned "Joyful Noise" features Citizens and is a highlight of the album for me, as are Tenielle Neda's background vocals in "With Everything We Praise The Lord." Meanwhile, Jon Guerra, Andy Squyres, Sandra McCracken, Tyson Motsenbocker, and more all add wonderfully to their respective tracks, fitting in wonderfully and bringing their own style to each piece. Interestingly, one of the most striking tracks on the album is a complete outlier in "Jesus Abide In Me," which is sung entirely by a gorgeous choir led by conductor extraordinaire Blake Clawson. Truth be told, its inclusion on the album may not make the most sense, but it's a wonderful piece of music and gives me chills with each listen.

I'm always eager to hear new music from John Van Deusen, because I know it'll be well-written and thoughtful, and it will almost certainly give the listener plenty to uncover with each new listen. As Long As I Am in the Tent of This Body I Will Make A Joyful Noise Pt. 2 may be more of a straightforward listening experience, but it's still one that gets better with more time spent on it. That being said, it is a long album that is a little tough to get through all in one sitting. And the closing track doesn't get repeat listens from me (though it was definitely a sweet moment between John and his son, and I understand its purpose and inclusion here). If we play the comparison game, I'd probably put Pt. 1 above it, but probably only by a small margin. If you liked the first one, definitely take the time to listen to Pt. 2, as it has a lot to offer, especially if you're looking for some good and honest worship music.

- Review date: 8/22/26, written by Scott Fryberger of Jesusfreakhideout.com