This week we're doing something a little different.

Instead of diving deep into one album, we're sharing the Christian records that left a lasting impact on our lives as musicians, creatives, and people.

Josh explores why Elevation Worship's Paradoxology became such a defining creative influence during the early days of building JW Creates, while Phil shares the unexpected story of how a Willie Nelson gospel album became part of his journey back to faith.

Along the way, we talk about:

• Why albums deserve more than a single listen
• Creative excellence in worship music
• Album artwork and visual storytelling
• Music that becomes attached to life's biggest moments
• Why revisiting and reimagining your creative work can give it new life

Whether you're a lifelong Christian, simply curious about Christian music, or just love hearing the stories behind meaningful records, we think you'll find something to connect with.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Elevation Worship – Paradoxology https://youtu.be/GsrgkyUXnsE?si=xZt8q_7KcWEJQI_C

• Willie Nelson & Bobbie Nelson – How Great Thou Art

• Chris Tomlin

• The upcoming Judged by the Cover Record of the Month Club

This month on the Judged by the Cover podcast, Josh and Phil dive back into one of their favorite traditions, picking a random album purely based on the cover art and seeing where the music takes them.

This time, the record is Cold Roses by Ryan Adams & The Cardinals.

What started as a blind vinyl pickup at a Chattanooga record convention quickly turned into one of the duo’s favorite discoveries yet. From the embossed packaging and Grateful Dead-inspired artwork to the warm live-recorded sound and immersive vinyl experience, Josh and Phil unpack why this 2005 double album still feels timeless 20+ years later.

In this episode they discuss:

1. Why physical album art still matters
2. The difference between streaming music and experiencing vinyl
3. The Grateful Dead influence on Cold Roses
4. Ryan Adams’ recovery and inspiration behind the album
5. The power of discovering music with friends
6. A possible future “Album of the Month Club”

If you love music discovery, vinyl culture, cover art, and conversations about the experience behind music, this episode is for you.

With a new Michael Jackson movie generating buzz, we’re taking a deep dive into Michael Jackson’s Thriller, the album that changed music, MTV, and pop culture forever.

In this episode of Judged by the Cover, we explore the impact, the iconic cover art, and the creative vision behind one of the best-selling albums of all time. From chart dominance to cinematic music videos, Thriller set a new standard for the industry.

Is it really “all thriller, no filler”? We break it down.