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By Kevin Pollard
• Barlow Girl: Love and War, Word/Curb/Warner
Once again, this group shows us that girls know how to rock. The trio of sisters
is back with their third album, which features their signature blend of power chords and soaring choruses – as well as their most diverse collection of self-penned songs. The high-energy
guitar driven opening, ‘Come Alive,’ sets the tone for the album. Other highlights include the piano based ballad, ‘Beautiful Ending’; and the anthem ‘Time for You to Go,’ which is about leaving all the media frenzy behind. Great songwriting and
harmonies, and the diversity of content, make this one of the best pop/rock
albums of 2009.
• Phil Stacey: Into the Light, Reunion
American Idol just kicked off another season – and former top 10 contestant, naval officer Phil Stacey, is back as well. His
debut album was geared to the mainstream country market; but for this sophomore
effort, he follows his true passion. This is a great collection of solid pop
songs, with his faith evidenced in some of the lyrics. Many of the songs here
are perfect for Christian radio, thanks to veteran producer Brown Bannister.
Highlights include the rock-infused power ballad ‘You’re not Shaken’; the catchy adult contemporary ‘Some Kind of Love’; and the cover of Rich Mullins’ rarity, ‘Hard to Get.’
• Avalon: Reborn, E1 Entertainment
Although it has been a number of years since Avalon has topped the charts, their
mark on Christian music is undeniable – as evidenced by numerous number one singles and awards. The line-up continues
changing; the only remaining original member is Janna Long. For their first new
studio album in four years, the group has made a definitive effort to reinvent
themselves. This is a defiantly pop/rock effort, as heard on ‘Alive,’ ‘Feel’ and the title track. There are some solid pop songs here, all with
uncompromised messages of faith; but there are no real standout tracks. This
musical shift will be a disappointment to longtime fans.
• Lara Landon: Beloved, Provident
One of the new breakout artists of the year is this singer and songwriter. Her
debut album has an eclectic blend of dark and vulnerable piano based ballads,
much like Sarah McLachlan. She fits the R&B and pop genres like a glove on songs like ‘For the First Time,’ ‘Closer’ and ‘Lift Me Up.’ Stellar production by veteran Michael Omartian, as well as passionate vocals
and honest lyrics, make this my dark horse favourite debut of the past year.
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• Jeremy Camp: Jeremy Camp Live, BEC
If you missed out on Camp’s ‘Speaking Louder than Before’ tour, which stopped in Abbotsford last year, or if you want to relive the
concert, look for this new album. Recorded in Dallas and Los Angeles, it
features 14 songs – including some of his biggest hits. All are given much more modern rock edge
than the original studio efforts. Four years after his Live Unplugged – Franklin, TN, this ‘plugged-in’ effort captures the passion and vigour of this Christian music mainstay.
• Casting Crowns: Until the Whole World Hears, Beach Street/Reunion
This group’s success has been driven by listeners drawn to well-written songs that speak to
the church, as heard on the title track: “I want to be your hands and feet / I want to live a life that leads / To see You
set the captive free / Until the whole world hears.” There is less focus on social commentary and challenging lyrics this time
around; instead, they opt for more worshipful songs, such as ‘Holy One,’ ‘Blessed Redeemer’ and the reworking of the classic hymn ‘Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee.’ People at their Langley concert several months ago were given a sneak peek of
these new songs. Other highlights include ‘Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me)’ and ‘Mercy,’ where the great voice of Megan Garrett is given room to shine.
February 2010
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