By Kevin Pollard

1. tobyMac: Tonight, EMI

This, the artist’s fourth solo effort, combines his trademark elements of R&B, funk, rock and hip hop. More importantly, his usual high-octane energy is cranked up a level – as heard on ‘Showstopper,’ and the chart toppers ‘City on Our Knees’ and ‘Get Back Up.’

2. Matthew West: The Story of Your Life, Sparrow

This singer/songwriter used real life stories he received as inspirations for each song on this album. The result is an collection of songs that expresses human emotions ranging from joy to sorrow, which will impact people’s hearts.

3. Newsboys: Born Again, inPop

The 15th studio release from this great band has a fitting title – as it does indeed mark a new beginning. Lead singer Michael Tait (dc Talk) has seamlessly taken over the reins, co-writing seven of the 10 original songs here – breathing new life into the band’s sound, and making this one of the best Newsboys albums in years.

4. Addison Road: Stories, INO

This pop/rock quintet’s sophomore album offers great songwriting, and fabulous vocals from Jenny Simmons, on catchy contemporary hits like ‘Fight Another Day’ (co-written by tobyMac), ‘This Little Light’ and ‘Won’t Let Me Go.’

5. Sanctus Real: Pieces of a Real Heart, Sparrow/EMI

The lyrical depth and maturity found on these 11 tracks have made this album one of my favourites. This quintet offers songs that don’t try to provide all the answers, but instead express the questions, doubts and joy we can all relate to – especially on ‘Lead Me.’

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6. Group 1 Crew: Outta Space Love, Word/Fervent/Curb

If you’re looking for an album that combines electronic pop, dance, R&B and hip hop with infectious melodies, you will want to check out this band’s third album. It should be a hit with fans of Black Eyed Peas.

7. Starfield: The Saving One, Sparrow/EMI

B.C.’s own Starfield offers up their fourth studio effort. It is a stunning worship album that captures both their vulnerable heart and passion for Christ –  with instantly singable melodies, as heard on ‘Rediscover You,’ ‘Absolutely’ and ‘No Other Saviour.’

8. Danny Gokey: My Best Days, RCA/Sony

This American Idol  Season 8 finalist presents a country/pop album that has many powerful songs of hope. His faith is not suppressed, but instead takes centre stage on songs like ‘I Still Believe,’ ‘Tiny Life’ and ‘It’s Only.’

9. Jimmy Needham: Night Lights, inPop

I don’t know why I have only just discovered Needham now on this, his third album. But I am glad I did, as he offers a bluesy, upbeat jazz-pop sound that has a vibe which makes it one of my new favourites.

10. Newworldson: Newworldson, inPop

From the first listen, I was entranced by their sound. A mix of jazz, blues, gospel and rock – with energetic grooves, and smooth vocals the likes of Michael Buble – are found on ‘You Set the Rhythm,’ ‘Do You Believe in Love?, and the hit single ‘There is a Way.’

January 2011