By Kevin Pollard

• Israel Houghton: Love God. Love People, Integrity

Although his roots are in worship, it's always hard to define the musical stylings of Israel Houghton.

His latest album, subtitled 'The London Sessions,' is no exception - as he implements a variety of genres from gospel, rock, funk, R&B and even a little power pop. It is a concept album of sorts, with the constant theme of love throughout the 12 tracks, and seamless transitions between some songs.

Five of the tracks run longer than six minutes, including the album closing epic 'Hosanna (Be Lifted Higher),' a song which features vocals by a London boys choir, Christian music pioneer Matthew Ward and the a cappella group Take 6.

So it is evident Houghton is not concerned about fitting his music into the perfect radio single format, but instead offering a vast landscape of sound - enhanced by the support of the London Session Orchestra.

Highlights here include the gospel infused 'Yahweh (The Lifter)'; the Stevie Wonder influenced '70s and '80s urban sound of 'Love Rev'; the funky 'Mercies' featuring Kirk Franklin; Fred Hammond's guest appearance on 'Surprises;' and a smooth cover of Chris Tomlin's 'Our God.'

• Britt Nicole: Acoustic, EMI

Although most critics are turned off by the typical remix album that attempts to bridge the gap before an artist's next new studio release, this six-song EP is worth picking up.

If you have not yet discovered this new pop singer/songwriter, this album would be a perfect introduction. It features re-recorded acoustic versions of five songs from her two previous albums. This organic makeover allows the listener to focus on the poignant lyrics rather than the slick production, and shows us how strong a vocalist she is.

Included here are 'Hanging On,' 'Set the World On Fire,' 'Headphones,' 'Walk on the Water' -- and her big hit, 'The Lost Get Found.' The only new song found here is a song she co-wrote with Brandon Heath -- 'Found By You' -- that closes the album out perfectly.

• Kerrie Roberts: Kerrie Roberts, Reunion/Provident

It is unfortunate when a first single by a debut artist does not really represent the rest of the album. Such is the case with Kerrie Roberts.

The catchy lead single, 'No Matter What,' has had great success on radio -- and I thought this could be the next great pop singer to watch for. But unfortunately, the only other upbeat song found on the album is 'Outcast.' The remaining eight songs here are all ballads.

However, although I was disappointed that the album was so heavy on the slow songs, certainly anyone who appreciates a dynamic vocal on original songs of faith will enjoy standout tracks like 'Unstoppable,' 'This Love Doesn't Run,' 'Keep Breathing' and 'Maybe I'm Afraid.'

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• Casting Crowns: Until The Whole World Hears . . . Live, Beach Street/Reunion

The tradition continues for these 2010 Dove Award Artist of the Year winners. Casting Crowns have released the follow up live CD/DVD combo version of their most recent album. This is now their fourth such release; and this proven formula, that sustains music fans, should do the trick again.

Songs included here from their 82-city tour are 'If We've Ever Needed You,' 'To Know You,' 'Glorious Day' and the title song. For those that have not had the chance to see Casting Crowns live, the DVD does a great job of capturing eight songs -- and the extras give you a closer glimpse of the band and their families.

Other extras include the music video for the title track, behind the scenes footage, interviews with the band and crew, and special teaching videos from lead singer/songwriter, author and pastor Mark Hall.

• pureNRG: Graduation-the best of pureNRG, Fervent

After only three years on the Christian music scene, pureNRG -- the group that filled the tween pop void after Jump5's departure -- have decided to move on to other ventures. This is their farewell album.

A set of polls on their website was used for fans to help finalize the track listing and vote on the new cover song to be included here; Steven Curtis Chapman's 'Dive' was chosen. It is odd that this 'best of' 12-song collection includes five covers.

It is even stranger that the only new songs included here are the cover of 'Dive,' and Audio Adrenaline's 'Hands and Feet.' They actually pull those off pretty well; but there should have been at least one newly penned song.

Included here are their radio singles ('Here We Go Again,' 'What If,' 'It's All About You,' and 'Radio'); and covers of fan favourite 'Footloose,' along with 'Call On Jesus' and 'Thy Word.'

• Chris August: No Far Away, Fervent/Curb

This debut album from Chris August sounds like that of a seasoned singer/songwriter. That was, in part, due to his time as a member of Ashlee Simpson's band -- and a secular record deal, that never resulted in an album release.

Now focussed on his solo career, August offers songs that are lyrically honest, and have a slick, sophisticated pop/R&B sound. His first single, 'Starry Night,' that marvels at God's creation from the perspective of growing up on a farm, has topped the charts.

There are many more solid tracks among the 11 here, that are destined to be played on the radio. The strongest are the piano based 'Want to be Real,' that addresses faith and doubt; the instantly singable love song 'Loving You Is Easy'; the smooth R&B groove of 'I'm Gonna Sing'; and the soothing ballad, 'Winter Time.'

August's soulful voice and songwriting make for one of the strongest debut albums of the year. This is evident on '7 x 70,' where he sings about growing up in a broken home: "But no matter how many times you weren't around / I'm alright now / God picked up my heart and helped me through / And shined light on the one thing left to do / And that's forgive you, I forgive you."

November 2010