Disciple – Skeleton Psalms (Deluxe Edition)

Released: April 25, 2025 (BEC Recordings)

4.9/5

Written by: Mike Laxton (April 25, 2025)

If the original release of Skeleton Psalms in 2023 was a bold declaration of faith through gritty, honest rock, then the Deluxe Edition is an even louder anthem—an expanded canvas of passion, pain, and praise. Disciple’s Skeleton Psalms (Deluxe Edition) includes the original 10 tracks and adds four new studio cuts, a reimagined acoustic take, and a powerful live set that cements the band’s legacy as one of Christian rock’s most enduring voices.

For those unfamiliar with Disciple, imagine the raw energy of Skillet, the introspection of RED, and the melodic punch of Decyfer Down—all driven by faith and relentless purpose. The band’s trademark sound is fully intact here: soaring vocals, face-melting guitar solos, double-kick drum patterns, and occasional screams that feel more like desperate prayers than aggressive posturing.

In my recent conversation with frontman Kevin Young, it became clear that Skeleton Psalms is more than just a record—it’s a reflection of his own spiritual battles, victories, and cries for healing. That emotional depth bleeds through the entire Deluxe Edition. Kevin described “Sound the Alarm,” one of the new tracks, as a wake        -up call, and you can feel the urgency in his voice. It’s a song that grabs you by the soul and demands attention—not just sonically, but spiritually.

Another standout is the revamped version of “Resurrecting Reasons” featuring TJ Harris of Decyfer Down. Kevin shared in our interview how meaningful it was to bring TJ in for this updated version, and it’s easy to hear why. Harris adds a gritty yet melodic counterbalance to Kevin’s vocals, and the collaboration elevates the track to new heights. It’s a raw, confessional anthem about reclaiming purpose and finding strength in vulnerability.

As a fan of acoustic arrangements, I was especially moved by the stripped-down version of “Promise to Live.” The gentle guitar and piano allow the lyrics to breathe, and Kevin’s vocal performance is even more stirring here than on the studio version. It plays like a ballad and feels deeply personal—like you’re sitting across from Kevin in a quiet room as he sings his heart out. The more I listened, the more the song gave me goosebumps. I can only imagine the chills I’d feel hearing it live in an acoustic setting.

Speaking of live performances, the album ends with six thunderous live tracks that capture the band’s electric energy and raw conviction. The live version of “The Executioner” immediately hits with intensity. Even though the studio version includes a haunting choir-like intro, the live cut delivers an added layer of urgency and spiritual weight. It’s not just music—it’s a moment. Every guitar riff and beat of the drum feels soaked in passion and ministry.

For someone who’s never seen Disciple live (yet!), this live set only heightens the anticipation. There’s a visceral connection in these tracks that proves why Disciple continues to resonate with fans across generations. Songs like “Skeleton Psalm” and “Long Live the Rebels” remind listeners that we are never alone in our struggles, and that redemption is always possible.

Altogether, this 22-track Deluxe Edition spans over 95 minutes and more than doubles the original album’s content. But beyond the runtime, it deepens the impact. Whether you’re new to Disciple or have been with them since Scars Remain (or longer), this release offers something powerful: honest songs for those seeking answers, a reminder that brokenness is not the end of the story, and a soundtrack for the battle between despair and hope.

If you’re into hard-hitting Christian rock or simply love music with a message, Skeleton Psalms (Deluxe Edition) deserves a top spot in your playlist. It’s loud, it’s real, and above all—it’s full of life.

For Fans Of: Skillet, RED, Decyfer Down, Thousand Foot Krutch, Nine Lashes