East West’s debut is the perfect blend of hardcore rock with a taste of rapcore elements, along the lines of P.O.D., Korn, and Project 86. This impressive major label debut is destined to bring the band a great deal of success thanks to their polished sound and balance between raw rock intensity and vibrant melodic emotion.
Read the original review here.
#11Porch and Altar
Charlie Hall
sixstep / Sparrow
Hall lends his blend of alternative worship straight from the Passion movement to sixstep Records. This sophomore release for the worship label showcases Hall mixing up rock and roll with contemplative meditations. Porch and Altar closes with a breathtaking four-song sequence of peace, cleansing, meditation, and comfort.
Read the original review here.
#10Invitation to Eavesdrop
Shaun Groves
Rocketown
Thankfully there are still a group of singer/songwriters that aren’t afraid to wear their hearts on their sleeves and challenge listeners with various themes. Groves is amongst the top new troubadours this year, combining cutting-edge acoustic jams with contemplative coffee-sipping tunes. Songs such as “Damage Done,” “Should I Tell Them,” and “Welcome Home” are a few poetic highlights from this performer with a promising future.
Read the original review here.
#9Big Surprise
The Elms
Sparrow
Since their debut EP, The Elms have matured tenfold, developing a knack for clever songwriting and a British-inspired rock backbeat. The group abandoned their formulaic acoustic rock sound to incorporate more prominent musical influences, including The Beatles and Radiohead. Songs such as “Hey, Hey” and a new version of “Lifeboat” are undeniably catchy, while the lush orchestration of “Real Men Cry” is timeless.
Read the original review here.
#8Leave Here a Stranger
Starflyer 59
Tooth & Nail
The Beach Boys had Pet Sounds for their career masterpiece while Starflyer 59 continues in that tradition with the release of Leave Here a Stranger. The group’s mellow acoustic balladry reaches a high level of artistic intricacy and splendor. Consider playing this disc in its entirety to allow the problems of life to float away while the musical magnificence and peace take over.
Read the original review here.
#7The Moon Is Down
Further Seems Forever
Tooth & Nail
The Moon is Down is without a doubt the year’s best release within the emo genre. It sports full guitar-driven arrangements fleshed out with vocalist Chris Carrabba’s emotional wails. Although Carrabba left Further Seems Forever to join Dashboard Confessional around the time of disc’s release, his remarkable singing style is preserved here with the band’s Weezer-meets-The Get Up Kids hybrid.
Read the original review here.
#6Big Blue Sky
Bebo Norman
Watershed / Essential
Norman shows incredible maturity both musically and lyrically on Big Blue Sky, an album that has enhanced instrumentation and production quality. Norman is able to elevate his acoustic sounds in volume without alienating those who liked his older material’s delicate and introspective feel. “I Am” and “Cover Me” are the project’s breakaway singles and crowd-pleasers, setting listeners up for the rest of Big Blue Sky’s pop sensibilities.
Read the original review here.
#5The Noise We Make
Chris Tomlin
sixstep / Sparrow
Straight from the Passion movement, Tomlin releases a touching record of worship set to a mix between acoustic and plugged-in rock and roll. Tomlin is blessed with the ability to lead worship well, and does so with a certain aura of artistic intricateness that hooks and reels listeners into the presence of God.
Read the original review here.
#4Talk About It
Nicole C. Mullen
Word
Talk About It is a mix between flashy urban dance rhythms, soulful pop, and diva-like ease. Mullen has improved from her debut effort, developing a glossier sound with hearty lyrics that appeal to listeners from any musical or racial background. Mullen gives Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey a run for their money on “Baby Girl” and “Witness,” while following up the majesty found on “Redeemer” with the hopeful “Call on Jesus.”
Read the original review here.
#3downhere
downhere
Word
This is a rock solid debut rooted in eclecticism and stellar musicianship, guaranteed to be the beginning of an ongoing career for downhere. The band blends a clever hybrid of influences, from the vocals of dc Talk’s Kmax to the instrumental sounds of Del Amitri and The Jayhawks. The project is a mix between driving rock songs and stirring ballads that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up during every listen.
Read the original review here.
#2Satellite
P.O.D.
Atlantic
More than any other band in the Christian music industry, this group has certainly had the most impact on mainstream culture throughout the last few years. They’re never ashamed to share their faith, set to the soundtrack of skillfully blended hardcore, reggae, and rap elements. Satellite is packed with hit singles, from the explosive opening sequence of “Set It Off,” “Alive,” and “Boom” to the stripped-down passion of “Thinking About Forever” and “Youth of the Nation.”
Read the original review here.
#1Declaration
Steven Curtis Chapman
Sparrow
Steven Curtis Chapman’s work seems to get better with time, and this album once again shows the inspirational rocker reinventing his sound just a bit. This is by far Chapman’s edgiest album, incorporating big guitar sounds and driving melodies. Of course there are those standard ballads Chapman is also known for, but rather than sounding clichéd or recycled, he shows a certain sense of vigor and life that truly inspire listeners of all ages.
I love that this industry veteran has reinvented herself, showcasing her funkier side yet remaining true to all we’ve grown to love about CeCe and her family’s musical legacy (read: amazing vocals and rock-solid faith). Along with her signature sweeping ballads, complemented by lush orchestrations, you’ll hear some great car jamming songs, including “Out My House,” a total dance hit about spiritual warfare co-written by CeCe herself. On this aptly self-titled album, I think CeCe’s really come into her own as a solo artist.
Read the original review here.
#11In the Company of Angels
Caedmon’s Call
Essential
During a year full of worship releases, Caedmon’s Call’s latest offering rises to the top. Instead of covering the latest contemporary worship favorites or forcing worship into an ill-fitting sound (as several artists did this year), this multi-talented group expanded our thinking about what constitutes worship by combining the best elements of praise songs old and new. There are a few old hymns with contemporary yet reverent makeovers and new worship songs that offer depth and poetic lyrics instead of simple repetitive choruses (which, don’t get me wrong, also have their place). And all that’s old on this album is made new with Caedmon’s Call’s signature modern acoustic folk-pop sound.
Read the original review here.
#10Conversations
Sara Groves
INO
I can’t think of a better title for this album full of conversational musings about life. Not only can I picture Sara performing these modern folk songs in a coffee shop, I can also picture her saying these lyrics to me over coffee as together we grapple with straining to hear God’ s voice, recognizing the infallability of Scripture, idealizing the past, and eagerly anticipating our future in heaven. Amidst her questions are the kind of challenges, insights, and wisdom I need to hear and offer more regularly in my own conversations.
Read the original review here.
#9Elementary
Cindy Morgan
Word
The diversity on singer/songwriter extraordinnaire Cindy Morgan’s latest album is nearly dizzying. There’s ’70s Latin pop, lounge jazz, Abba-esque pop, her signature piano ballads, and even a Harry Connick Jr.-ish ditty. The unifying factors are Cindy’s strong vocals, clever songwriting, and theme of hope and joy. The latter is a nice progression from her last album, the weightier Easter-themed The Loving Kind. Sound-wise she’s pulled together the strong artistry of that album and the best of her inspo-pop days. I get the impression Cindy had fun recording this album, which makes it all the more easy to enjoy knowing she’s not just trying to make us smile, she’s smiling right along with us.
Read the original review here.
#8Karaoke Superstars
Superchic[k]
Inpop
This way fun album can be summed up in four words: God-centered girl power. The beauty is that the album encourages us chicks to take ourselves seriously as valued creations of the Most High God, while simultaneously encouraging us not to take ourselves too seriously by injecting the songs with clever lyrics and modern punk-pop stylings (think The Go-Gos meets All Star United). Purity, self-assurance, and sold-out faith have never been more infectious, fun, and hip.
Read the original review here.
#7Big Blue Sky
Bebo Norman
Watershed/Essential
This is a Saturday morning album, the kind I love to listen to while curled up under a blanket sipping coffee and savoring a day off from the usual pressures of life. It’s not sleepy, it’ s just that the lyrics engage the mind and emotions (with topics such as loneliness and recognizing God’s presence all around us) while the acoustic-based pop doesn’t beat you over the head musically. I’d swear Bebo was channeling Marc Cohn at moments during this album, if I believed in such things. He’s got the same dreamy, folky, whispery quality to his voice that makes Marc’s songs (“True Companion,” “Walking in Memphis”) compelling. And how sweet is a guy who sings about his mom and his someday-wife?!
Read the original review here.
#6downhere
downhere
Word
This brand new band from Canada took me by surprise — and by storm. All it took was one listen to their debut CD to decide they’d wind up on my list of favorites. The lead singers’ voices are great together, and are sometimes even stronger apart (especially the ocassional falsetto from Marc Martel). Throughout the disc you’ll hear hints of the bands that have influenced this mostly acoustic modern rock group — including Vertical Horizon, dc Talk, Sugar Ray, and Queen. The result is a catchy modern sound that ranges from the worshipy “Great Are You” to the moody “So Blue.” I’m glad these Canadians have released their music down here.
Read the original review here.
#5Come Together
Third Day
Essential
Third Day is a great rock band — period. That these guys are Christians is just a really cool bonus. Lead singer Mac Powell’s voice alternates between gritty on the driving southern rock songs and gripping on the moving ballads sprinkled between. I love that Third Day does both extremes well, all the while encouraging weary listeners, proclaiming compelling faith, oozing cool, having fun, and inviting believers to come together for God’s higher purposes.
Read the original review here.
#4Stereotype Be
Kevin Max
Forefront
Kevin Max’s voice has long been one of my favorites in the Christian music industry, so this album pretty much had me from the moment I pushed play. I admit there are times I have no idea what his lyrics are about (even after reading the liner notes), but with his cool moody, U2/Sting-ish sound, I really don’t care. It’s that voice …
Read the original review here.
#3Katy Hudson
Katy Hudson
Red Hill
Of the new crop of female teen CCM singers, Katy’s my favorite. She writes her own songs, her sound isn’t a Britney rip off, and her voice is a compelling blend of Fiona Apple and Sarah McLachlan. I can easily picture her in a smoky, sweaty jazz club (sound-wise, that is). Ironically one of her strengths is her frailty, as she vulnerably lays her fears, longings, weaknesses, and growing pains before listeners, and more importantly, before God. Who isn’t drawn to this kind of relatable and gutsy honesty?
Read the original review here.
#2Talk About It
Nicole C. Mullen
Word
What’s cool about Nicole C. Mullen is that she writes back-to-back Dove Award winning Songs of the Year (“On My Knees” and “Redeemer”), builds bridges between racial and musical genres, performs with infectious energy and powerful scripture quoting, dances like the dickens on stage with the teen girls she mentors, and still begins the song destined to be next year’s Song of the Year (“Call on Jesus”), “I’m so very ordinary, nothing special on my own.” Her sophomore album captures all that’s great about divas — attitude, soaring ballads, hip dance songs, and vibe — for all the right reasons: renouncing temptation, upholding purity, challenging believers to be bold for their faith, and pointing to the God who makes all this and more possible.
Read the original review here.
#1The Way I Am
Jennifer Knapp
Gotee
For her most lyrically mature album to date, I think it’s a perfect fit that Jennifer Knapp fills out her usually acoustic-based blues/folk/rock/pop sound with more instrumentation and even the London Symphony Orchestra. The fuller sound seems to parallel the weight of her words — about searching for grace, grappling with the mysteries of faith, realizing how fallen we really are, and totally abandoning ourselves to God. That this singer/songwriter/guitar player creates songs that are simultaneously mind stretching and entertaining proves her genius. But with three stellar albums to her credit, she’s already established that’s just the way she is.
Don’t see this as me sticking this album on at the end of my list, because I really debated moving it up quite a bit. downhere is simply one of the best debuts to come along in quite a while. They’re a band from Canada with a great acoustic alternative rock sound. Many people who have discovered this album are saying that they’re “wearing it out” in their CD player … including myself! The quality of the musicianship and lyrical content for such a young group is astonishing. I can’t wait to hear how far these guys will go with future albums.
Read the original review here.
#11Talk About It
Nicole C. Mullen
Word
If stage presence could come through on a non-live album, this might very well be that one. Nicole commands attention on stage (see her sometime if you haven’t!), and she is equally captivating on Talk About It. Nicole deservedly won the Dove Award for Song of the Year in 2000 for her song, “My Redeemer.” This year’s winner from her will most likely be “Call On Jesus” — it’s that good, though it’s certainly not the only stunner on the album. You’ll find quite a few flavors of music mixed up in this one. That Nicole managed to outdo her debut album is truly an achievement. Make sure you give this one your attention and then talk about it with other music-lovers you know.
Read the original review here.
#10Satellite
P.O.D.
Atlantic
This project may not have made it to number one on my list, but it had to be in here for sure. Satellite is quite possibly the most influential album of the year. How so? Consider the mission of these guys. They grew up in some of the roughest streets of our country and they know the reality of what that situation can bring, yet they can’t stop talking about the love of God every chance they get. What’s more, MTV can’t get enough of them — their video hit the top of the “secular” chart. In their interviews, they give all credit to God in a way that comes across as real. They fill stadiums, and then they take hours afterward to speak with their fans one-on-one about how their faith has changed and saved them. When it comes to their passion for the Gospel, these guys don’t hold back. They may look rough in appearance, but this album has a message worthy of a pastor’s sermon, set to music that kids are rapidly embracing.
Read the original review here.
#9Come Together
Third Day
Essential
This is the baby of this list, the newest-born if you will. It hasn’t been out very long, but it’s already made an impact on me, and I know I’m not alone. Third Day’s sound remains intact, but this isn’t just a project of leftovers from their last album. It’s all new material with a strong message to it, perfectly summed up by the album title. The band has felt a strong sense of community with their audience over the past few years, and this album was created to express that as only they could. There’s enough variety on Come Together to not only bring back those who own any of the band’s other releases, but also to draw in a new group of listeners who haven’t discovered Third Day yet.
Read the original review here.
#8Stereotype Be
Kevin Max
Forefront
Kevin Max’s solo debut is just right. Listeners will want to scramble back to the CD player to replay that last song to work through the lyrics again. It has influences bursting out of it from all different angles that the listeners will find familiar and enjoy. Kevin set out to be himself, and it comes through very clearly. The variety from song to song doesn’t confuse, but it galvanizes the ideas that Kevin attempts to express. He accomplishes this through his well-known vibrato tones and his nuanced performance and production. Expect something different, and Stereotype Be will take you a step further than that.
Read the original review here.
#7Big Surprise
The Elms
Sparrow
This is well done pop-rock without the crackling in your mouth (Read: Candy eaters from the early 1980’s will get that one). Big Surprise is stimulating and fun, giving a double dose of ear-candy in both the music and the lyrics. Other than the publicity department over at Sparrow Records, I doubt anyone expected such a great album from these rookies … at least not so soon. We got a taste of what The Elms could do from their debut EP last year, but this surely was a big surprise for anyone who has this album.
Read the original review here.
#6Conversations
Sara Groves
INO
If you enjoy focusing on the lyrics of songs, this album is for you. It stays true to its title, Conversations, in that the album is full of honest thoughts of God’s creation talking to its Creator. The words and phrases from song to song will continue to surprise and resonate with the listener. I find myself drawn to writers who can express the thoughts and emotions that I feel better than I ever could. It’s a way for me to get those thoughts out of my heart to God when I most need to. This album helps me do that, and I eagerly await Sara’s next project and all she has to say through it.
Read the original review here.
#5Invitation to Eavesdrop
Shaun Groves Rocketown
Putting out an album on a major record label and landing top songs on the radio charts was never in Shaun’s plans. He simply wanted to minister and the secondary blessings of musical success came with God’s plans. This album is an open invitation to take a look at God through the imperfect life, experiences, and thoughts of an imperfect man. As much as any other album put out this year, Shaun’s songwriting enables the listener to be honest with themselves and with God in a way that is very easy on the ears.
Read the original review here.
#4In the Company of Angels
Caedmon’s Call
Essential
This album was already going to be a part of my list before I went to the first concert of their tour for this album. The concert experience glued all of my thoughts and reactions to this music together in my mind. It’s a different kind of worship album. The group has a knack of not only producing great sounding tunes, but they consistently speak the truth of God’s Word clearly with incredible artistic integrity. Their dedication and commitment to leading people in their home church in Houston, TX, is extended into this album for all to enjoy and to be lead into the presence of God.
Read the original review here.
#3Declaration
Steven Curtis Chapman
Sparrow
This is another album that was high on my list before the 9/11 tragedies, but became necessary listening after that day. Steven was even in D.C. the day of the attacks. Declaration was partly born out of the intense struggles Steven experienced during the time of writing and recording this project. That spirit of struggle without compromise bursts out of this album, causing me to have no choice but to rank this project high on my list. It’s his best album to date in this listener’s opinion, and one to tell others about.
Read the original review here.
#2Press On
Selah
Curb
Selah’s self-titled debut beat out Charlotte Church and a number of other top projects for Inspirational Album of the Year in the 2000 Dove Award voting — and they recorded that album in just two weeks. With a lot more budget and time in their schedule to put together their 2001 release, Press On, they have raised the bar for both themselves and the entire Inspirational genre. This is a gem, the exciting, powerful vocals complimenting the beautiful arrangements perfectly. It was a universally applicable album before the 9/11 attacks, but it became a needed and effective resource of hope after that day. Simply put — do what you have to do in order to own this album.
Read the original review here.
#1Big Blue Sky
Bebo Norman
Watershed/Essential
Bebo’s textured voice, his perspectives on life through his songwriting, his unique guitar playing (with those funky acrylic fingernails), and his personable presence make me want to listen to his music over and over again. It’s his honesty on this album that makes it top my list. Bebo shows his willingness to explore and openly express his feelings about singleness, loneliness, death, God’s faithfulness, and other parts of his life that relate to the lives of his listeners as well. I can’t help but highly respect an effort like this, and I just as highly recommend it to you.
Arguably the most fun album of the year. Think big band. Think swing. Think, “If Frank Sinatra or Harry Connick Jr. were a Christian … ” Well, you’d get something like this!
Read the original review here.
#11Superstars”>Karaoke Superstars
Superchic[k]
Inpop
This gets the other argument for the year’s funnest album. Superchic[k], founded by Church of Rhythm’s Max Hsu, has a great message for teen girls struggling with self-esteem: God don’t make mistakes, and he thinks you’re beautiful!
Read the original review here.
#10Worship
Michael W. Smith
Reunion
This CD released on September 11 with a message for a nation gripped with fear: God is still in control and worthy of praise. People who attended the live taping for Worship say it was one of the most spiritually moving times of their lives, and the CD captures that spirit very well.
Read the original review here.
#9In the Company of Angels
Caedmon’s Call
Essential
Before they were famous, Caedmon’s was leading worship services at its home church in Houston. And they still do. So it’s fitting that they would do a worship album, and this one’s better than most.
Read the original review here.
#8The Last Street Preacha
T-Bone
Flicker
What makes T-Bone’s rap music vital is its ability to reach kids on the streets — where he was before finding Christ. He uses street language-such as pimpin’ and crack houses — that’s, frankly, sometimes disturbing. But the lyrics are also jam-packed with the life-saving message of the gospel. One of the most socially relevant albums of the year.
Read the original review here.
#7Declaration
Steven Curtis Chapman
Sparrow
What do you expect from a guy who brings home Doves and Grammys by the truckload? You expect more great music. Chapman certainly delivers here, with “walls of guitars,” as he describes it. Add the most confessional lyrics of his career — with lines such as, “The pain falls like a curtain on the things I once called certain / And I have to say the words I fear the most: I don’t know” — and you’ve got another award winner.
Read the original review here.
#6Talk About It
Nicole C. Mullen
Word
After an incredible self-titled debut — which garnered Dove Awards for Song of the Year (“Redeemer”) and Songwriter of the Year — expectations for Nicole C. Mullen’s sophomore project were high. But she has delivered and then some. Stunning vocals and an eclectic mix of pop, R&B, jazz, hip-hop, gospel and more will make this a regular in my player for years.
Read the original review here.
#5Come Together
Third Day
Essential
The best rock band in Christian music keeps getting better. There’s plenty of the band’s typical Southern rock, plus a few fine worship songs — the genre in which Third Day snagged five Dove Awards from last year’s Offerings CD. Come Together‘s title cut is a rousing call to break down denominational walls, also sure to be a favorite.
Read the original review here.
#4The Way I Am
Jennifer Knapp
Gotee
Jennifer Knapp’s music has always swept me away, and The Way I Am is no different. It includes a good mix of rock and folk, with sumptuous support from the London Symphony Orchestra. But it’s Knapp’s knack with a pen that makes her music soar. One of the finest lyricists around — Christian or secular — Knapp’s songwriting takes the listener to another place.
Read the original review here.
#3Satellite
P.O.D.
Atlantic
This hardcore/reggae/rapcore CD was slated for an August release, but was delayed for promotion on MTV. Satellite finally released on September 11, the day of the terrorist attacks. And how fitting, because it’s filled with songs of hope for a hurting world — precisely P.O.D.’s target audience. The tunes are hard and heavy and excellent, but it’s P.O.D.’s ability to impact secular culture in a huge way that makes this CD, and this band, extra special.
Read the original review here.
#2Travelers
Carolyn Arends
Signpost Music
OK, I’m biased toward intelligent female singer-songwriters — they’ve filled my top two slots (and three of my top six). Carolyn Arends has always had a brilliant way with words — her marvelous book, Living the Questions (Harvest House), is further proof of that — and her writing keeps getting better. Travelers, part of the Living Room Series on fellow Canadian Steve Bell’s Signpost label, has a warm coffeehouse feel with Carolyn’s mellow vocals and a fine acoustic trio.
#1Conversations
Sara Groves
INO
Though it’s hard to pick a Top 12, No. 1 was a no-brainer. I first heard Conversations as an indie release 18 months ago, and was blown away by Groves’ sensitive, insightful songwriting-not surprising for a former high school English teacher — tender melodies, and smooth vocals. I’m still blown away, probably 50 listens later. Every song’s a gem on this 13-track CD, ranging from pop to jazz, but my favorites are “How Is It Between Us,” “Going Home,” “Tent in the Center of Town” and “Generations.” Speaking of which, this CD is good enough to endure for many generations to come.
In a near photo finish between this album and Bebo Norman’s Big Blue Sky, I’m going to give the edge to Andrew by a nose. His insightful songwriting features the same kind of simple-yet-profound storytelling that Rich Mullins was so renowned for. Andrew seems capable of expressing God’s grace through anything, whether recalling the time he lost luggage in Kalamazoo or speaking from the perspective of a penny contemplating its meager value in the financial world. Though I’d like to see Andrew expand his musical palette in the future, this is a first-rate folk-pop album, featuring songwriting as thoughtful as any you’ll find.
Read the original review here.
#11Rhythms of Remembrance
Apt•Core
Rocketown
I can’t stop listening to this album, or praising it for that matter. Rhythms of Remembrance is a terrific electronic music album, skillfully blending techno and trance with world music influences and layering that with spoken Scripture passages. The production is top-notch and really cool, but I also appreciate the album for its multi-functionality — you can work to it, exercise to it, use it for worship, etc. Though the musical idea is not original, this is something new for Christian music, and I think it paves the way for an exciting and interesting new Christian music genre.
Read the original review here.
#10Katy Hudson
Katy Hudson
Red Hill
She’s just 17 years old! I have to keep reminding myself that as I listen to this stunning debut from Katy, who wrote or co-wrote every track herself. Here’s a teen who easily could have come across as a second-rate Jennifer Knapp or Fiona Apple. Instead, she writes and performs alternative pop/rock with the best of them, even blending jazz into songs such as “Growing Pains” and “When There’s Nothing Left.” This album is rife with the musical maturity and intelligence of a twentysomething. She’s just 17 years old!
Read the original review here.
#9Falling Down
steve
Forefront
I suspect steve may be the most underrated new band of the year. Sure, they have a modern British rock sound similar to Delirious … but they do it so well! The album production is raw, but stuffed with clever hooks. The band’s musicianship is impressive all around, especially the guitar sounds and the bass riffs. Lead singer Neil Wilson writes very simple worship songs that are nevertheless very catchy, and they express worship to the Lord with original words and ideas in ways that mainstream audiences also have appreciated. A great worshipful modern rock debut.
Read the original review here.
#86.1
Out of the Grey
Rocketown
It’s been a great year for Rocketown, and the highlight for me has been the return of this talented husband-wife duo. What could have been just another Christian pop album is elevated by smart songwriting and creative production. The Dentés combine thoughtful and honest lyrics with sophisticated pop to create songs that are catchy, yet melodically abstract. Scott’s guitars and Christine’s vocals are superb as usual, but it is producer Monroe Jones who adds the last puzzle piece to make a rich, progressive pop tapestry. If there’s any complaint, it’s that 6.1 is too short.
Read the original review here.
#7Satellite
P.O.D.
Atlantic
I could talk about how P.O.D. artistically blends hardcore rock with elements of rap, pop, jazz, and reggae. I could also comment on the plethora of electrifying anthems that constitute Satellite, such as “Alive” and “Youth of the Nation,” and how powerfully the band performs them. But above all that, I most appreciate P.O.D.’s success at bringing the Gospel beyond our subculture. Christian artists who truly want to influence the world around them should study what this band is accomplishing and take notes.
Read the original review here.
#6Big Surprise
The Elms
Sparrow
The Beatles … Cheap Trick … XTC … Jellyfish … Oasis … just some of the respected bands that perfectly balance beautiful melodies and simple rock and roll, with a bit of creative imagination thrown in. Add The Elms to that list. From their catchy pop/rock anthem “Hey, Hey” and the beautifully plaintive “The Buzzing Won’t Stop,” to the dramatic rock of the title track and the soaring “Here’s My Hand,” you can’t help but be impressed with frontman Owen Thomas’s writing skills and the band’s cross-generational British rock sound on Big Surprise.
Read the original review here.
#5Elementary
Cindy Morgan
Word
Maybe it’s not quite as good as her 1998 masterpiece, The Loving Kind, but Elementary is still more than enough proof that Cindy Morgan is one of Christian music’s most gifted songwriters. Weaving a rich tapestry of pop, jazz, Latin, and Broadway, Cindy demonstrates a level of sophisticated pop songwriting that rivals the legendary Carole King. Some have said that the music is generally too easy listening, but music lovers with diverse tastes will love the eclectic blend and the encouraging lyrics that offer reasons for joy amidst the hardships of life.
Read the original review here.
#4In the Company of Angels
Caedmon’s Call
Essential
In a year dominated by worship music releases, this album from Caedmon’s Call stands head and shoulders above the rest. The band’s well-known grassroots pop/rock sound is as impressive as always, but it’s the thoughtful approach to the words of praise that sets In the Company of Angels apart. Worship music is typically defined by its lyrical content, and Caedmon’s Call rightly understands that we can express worship to the Lord with the poetic language of the old hymns and today’s contemporary music … and still fall short in fully articulating God’s majesty and glory.
Read the original review here.
#3downhere
downhere
Word
This Canadian band’s sound is an enjoyable mix of roots rock/pop akin to bands such as Del Amitri, Jars of Clay, Train, and Lifehouse, but I’m far more impressed with the quality of their songwriting and performance. Both lead vocalists are terrific, the wide array of instruments played by the band is wonderful, and producer Nathan Nockels of Watermark brings it all together to make one of the best debuts this year. I found more and more to praise about this album with every listen, forcing it near the top of my list — a couple more listens, and I may need to change my pick for #1. Trust me, and go check it out!
Read the original review here.
#2Declaration
Steven Curtis Chapman
Sparrow
I’m not a life-long Steven Curtis Chapman fan, but his latest is just too irresistible. Declaration reveals Steven at his most rocking (“Bring It On,” with its amazing “guitar choir”) and his most passionate (the orchestral “Savior” features some incredibly self-reflective lyrics). I commend him and co-producer Brown Bannister for their work at balancing the London Session Orchestra with Steven and his superb touring band. At times they feel like a single unit, and that’s not easy. Steven Curtis Chapman truly has gotten better with each successive release, and this is a near-perfect pop/rock album. I just can’t get it out of my player or my head!
Read the original review here.
#1Conversations
Sara Groves
INO
Ever since its release in March of this year, Conversations has been the standard by which I’ve measured albums in terms of artistic excellence. On this generally soft-spoken album, Sara shows an amazing grasp of songwriting. Her musical styles range from simple pop and folk to jazz and inspirational hymns. At times, she recalls a young Joni Mitchell or Carole King with her vocals and piano skills. And oh, the lyrical content! There’s just not enough space here to describe her perfect balance of honesty, inspiration, storytelling, and soul-searching. Though her career as an artist is just getting started, Sara Groves’s brilliant songwriting seems as vital and important as Rich Mullins and Michael Card.
The end of November not only marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season, it’s also the unofficial end of the year for music releases (no coincidence there!). That means it’s also time for us to release our Top 12 picks for the best Christian albums of 2001.
With so many incredible music releases to choose from this year, we asked a couple of editors from our sister publications to contribute to our selection process. Then, using sophisticated methodology (“Bubble gum, bubble gum, in a dish … “), we created an official list that reflects the overlap between our picks. The result is a best-of list we feel truly represents the cream of the crop. Also, click on any of the editors’ names to view each of our individual lists, which feature a few more albums that didn’t make the final cut. As always, you can click on any album image in the lists to listen to sound clips and buy the album at Musicforce.com.
Our music panel included the following contributors:
Andy Argyrakis, freelance music critic for the music channel.Russ Breimeier, music critic and co-director for the music channel.Camerin Courtney, associate editor for Today’s Christian Woman magazine, as well as the singles and music channels.Michael Herman, co-director for the music channel.Mark Moring, managing editor for Campus Life magazine.
And now, without further ado, here are our winners:
#12Katy Hudson
Katy Hudson
Red Hill
Camerin: ” … writes her own songs … vulnerably lays her fears, longings, weaknesses, and growing pains before listeners … “Russ: ” … rife with the musical maturity and intelligence of a twentysomething. She’s just 17 years old!”
#11Stereotype Be
Kevin Max
Forefront
Camerin: “Kevin Max’s voice has long been one of my favorites … with his cool moody, U2/Sting-ish sound … “Mike: ” … nuanced performance and production … expect something different, and Stereotype Be will take you a step further than that.”
#10Big Surprise
The Elms
Sparrow
Russ: ” … perfectly balance beautiful melodies and simple rock and roll, with a bit of creative imagination thrown in.”Mike: “Big Surprise is stimulating and fun, giving a double dose of ear-candy in both the music and the lyrics. “Andy: ” … The Elms have matured tenfold, developing a knack for clever songwriting and a British-inspired rock backbeat. “
#9The Way I Am
Jennifer Knapp
Gotee
Camerin: “That this singer/songwriter/guitar player creates songs that are simultaneously mind stretching and entertaining proves her genius.”Mark: ” … a good mix of rock and folk … but it’s Knapp’s knack with a pen that makes her music soar. “
#8Come Together
Third Day
Essential
Mark: “The best rock band in Christian music keeps getting better.”Camerin:“Third Day is a great rock band—period. “Mike: “There’s enough variety on Come Together to not only bring [fans], but also to draw in a new group of listeners who haven’t discovered Third Day yet.”
#7In the Company of Angels
Caedmon’s Call
Essential
Russ: “Caedmon’s Call rightly understands that we can express worship to the Lord with the poetic language of the old hymns and today’s contemporary music … and still fall short in fully articulating God’s majesty and glory.”Mike: “The group has a knack of not only producing great sounding tunes, but they consistently speak the truth of God’s Word clearly with incredible artistic integrity.”Mark: ” … it’s fitting that Caedmon’s Call would do a worship album, and this one’s better than most.”Camerin: “During a year full of worship releases, Caedmon’s Call’s latest offering rises to the top.”
#6Big Blue Sky
Bebo Norman
Watershed / Essential
Mike: “Bebo’s textured voice, his perspectives on life through his songwriting, his unique guitar playing … , and his personable presence make me want to listen to his music over and over again.”Camerin:” … the lyrics engage the mind and emotions … while the acoustic-based pop doesn’t beat you over the head musically.”Andy: “Norman shows incredible maturity both musically and lyrically on Big Blue Sky … “
#5Talk About It
Nicole C. Mullen
Word
Camerin: “[Talk About It] captures all that’s great about divas — attitude, soaring ballads, hip dance songs, and vibe — for all the right reasons … “Andy: “Mullen has improved from her debut effort, developing a glossier sound with hearty lyrics that appeal to listeners from any musical or racial background.”Mark: “[Nicole] has delivered and then some. Stunning vocals and an eclectic mix of pop, R&B, jazz, hip-hop, gospel and more will make this a regular in my player for years.”Mike: “That Nicole managed to outdo her debut album is truly an achievement.”
#4downhere
downhere
Word
Andy: “This is a rock solid debut rooted in eclecticism and stellar musicianship, guaranteed to be the beginning of an ongoing career for downhere.”Russ: “I found more and more to praise about this album with every listen, forcing it near the top of my list … “Camerin: “All it took was one listen to their debut CD to decide they’d wind up on my list of favorites.”Mike: “The quality of the musicianship and lyrical content for such a young group is astonishing. I can’t wait to hear how far these guys will go with future albums.”
#3Satellite
P.O.D.
Atlantic
Andy: “[P.O.D. is] never ashamed to share their faith, set to the soundtrack of skillfully blended hardcore, reggae, and rap elements.”Mark: “The tunes are hard and heavy and excellent, but it’s P.O.D.’s ability to impact secular culture in a huge way that makes this CD, and this band, extra special.”Russ: “Christian artists who truly want to influence the world around them should study what this band is accomplishing and take notes.”Mike: “They may look rough in appearance, but this album has a message worthy of a pastor’s sermon, set to music that kids are rapidly embracing.”
#2Conversations
Sara Groves
INO
It’s worth mentioning that this album was independently released in 1999. However, it was only widely distributed beginning March 2001. We also suspect that most critics did not fairly consider Conversations for their 1999 best-of lists because it was an independent release at the time.
Mark: “I first heard Conversations as an indie release 18 months ago, and was blown away by Groves’ sensitive, insightful songwriting”Russ: “Sara Groves’s brilliant songwriting seems as vital and important as Rich Mullins and Michael Card.”Mike: “The words and phrases from song to song will continue to surprise and resonate with the listener.”Camerin: “Amidst her questions are the kind of challenges, insights, and wisdom I need to hear and offer more regularly in my own conversations.”
#1Declaration
Steven Curtis Chapman
Sparrow
Russ: “Steven Curtis Chapman truly has gotten better with each successive release, and this is a near-perfect pop/rock album.”Andy: ” … this album once again shows the inspirational rocker reinventing his sound just a bit.”Mike: “Declaration was partly born out of the intense struggles Steven experienced during the time of writing and recording this project. That spirit of struggle without compromise bursts out of this album, causing me to have no choice but to rank this project high on my list.”Mark: “Add the most confessional lyrics of his career … and you’ve got another award winner.”
Honorable Mention
6.1 — Out of the GreyElementary — Cindy MorganInvitation to Eavesdrop — Shaun GrovesKaraoke Superstars — Superchic[k]The Last Street Preacha — T-BoneLeave Here a Stranger — Starflyer 59The Moon Is Down — Further Seems ForeverThe Noise We Make — Chris TomlinPress On — SelahTravelers — Carolyn Arends
