By Kevin Pollard

• Barlow Girl: How Can We Be Silent, Fervent/Curb/Warner

This pop/rock trio of sisters is back with their third album – and this time they are ready to break away from the Superchick comparisons. The multi-Dove nominated group has already had hit songs, including ‘Never Alone,’ ‘I Need You to Love Me,’ ‘Let Go’ and ‘You’re Worthy of My Praise.’ Once again, they have teamed up with producer Otto Price, to bring their writing to life. Standout tracks include the autobiographical ‘Here’s My Life,’ the straightforward ballad ‘I Believe in Love,’ the affirming ‘I Don’t Regret,’ rock anthem ‘Million Voices’ and the experimental, Broadway-influenced ‘One More Round.’ The pop-punk leanings are all but gone on this latest effort, as they now offer a more dramatic pop-metal sound.          barlowgirl.com

• Everyday Sunday: Wake Up! Wake Up!, InPop

It’s been six years now since Everyday Sunday first caught a national audience with the single ‘Just a Story.’ After the success of Stand Up and Anthems for the Imperfect, they have released their most solid effort yet. Wake Up! Wake Up! was produced by Ian Eskelin (Krystal Meyers, Stellar Kart, All Star United), and has the catchy pop/rock sound of Relient K – with less of the satire. They have more depth, as heard on the heartfelt plea for God’s help, ‘Find Me Tonight.’ Other standouts include the high energy rock of ‘Let’s Go Back’ and the title track.                           inpop.com

Continue article >>

 • Bethany Dillon: Waking Up, Sparrow/EMI

Turning 18 is a major event for most everyone. It signals a change, a maturing and a new season. For Bethany Dillon, this season of life finds her experiencing her faith in profound ways. And it’s evidenced in the songwriting on her third album. Dillon touches on wrestling with guilt (‘Change,’ ‘Tell Me’), her recent missions trip to India (‘Beggar’s Heart’), and even a friend coping with infertility (‘The Kingdom’). In addition to working with longtime producer Ed Cash (Chris Tomlin, Bebo Norman), Dillon has at long last spread her wings to team up with Will Hunt (Shane & Shane) and John Alagia (John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band). It’s a move which allowed for a wide range of creative input. Her lyrics especially stand out, painting an engaging life picture that’s not clichéd, but rather a wake-up call for the soul.            bethanydillon.com

• Pocket Full of Rocks: Manifesto, Warner/Curb/Word

Although this Texas-based worship band may not be familiar to many yet, they have now been playing music together for more than 11 years; they have also had their songs recorded by Michael W. Smith (‘Let it Rain,’ on Worship) and Phillips, Craig & Dean (‘Let the Worshippers Arise’). They have just released their sophomore album. As on their previous CD, Manifesto offers up AC-pop sounding songs with a vertical focus. More suited for play on Christian radio than for corporate worship, this album will fit perfectly into the collection of those listening to Mercy Me or Casting Crowns.

pocketfullofrocks.com

October 2007