C

Cadia

• Cadia
  Tori Smith and Courtney Myers may be young and new to Nashville’s music world, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth a listen. In fact, this duo’s debut, Cadia, offers tight vocals, challenging lyrics, and a refreshing energy that is hard to come by. With a sound like BarlowGirl or Krystal Meyers and a blend of biblically-based wisdom on topics ranging from high school life and dreams (“This One’s for the Girls”) to prayer and apologetics (“Only a Prayer Away” and “Curious”), these girls will please the teen crowd and the parents. Album Highlights: “This One’s for the Girls”, “Jesus” and “Inside Out.” - by amy nickerson

Caedmon's Call

• Overdressed 
  Caedmon’s Call and Derek Webb join forces again for social change and divine discomfort on Overdressed. Like a ‘60s hippie band thirsty for a revolution, it’s hard to deny their fight (especially on the acoustically driven, campfire song, “All Across the Western World”). The melodies take a backseat to the message on this album, which sadly makes some of the songs quite underwhelming. Nevertheless, their points pack a serious punch (i.e., “The reaching of the steeple felt like one more expensive ad for something cheap” from “Expectations”). The one song where lyrics and harmony stand toe-to-toe is “Hold the Light” -- a two-minute outro rolls on while the title is whispered over a light guitar solo. Overdressed is hardly CC’s Share the Well, nor is it Webb’s Mockingbird. But fans of the old days will still feel the magic. Album Highlights: “Hold the Light” - jennifer e. jones
• In the Company of Angels II: The World Will Sing  
  On the press release accompanying Jeremy Camp’s latest album, Speaking Louder Than Before, a bold headline reads, “Husband. Father. Artist.” Along with a few pictures of Jeremy Camp the rock star, is a family portrait. This is a good metaphor for his latest CD and the direction of his career. In a way, Jeremy Camp’s music is secondary to his personality and his celebrity in the Christian music world. Along with being an artist, Jeremy Camp strives to be a minister and a model of a solid Christian guy (which is admirable), but doesn’t seem overly interested in breaking new ground as an artist. With polished, upbeat inspiration tracks like “I’m Alive” and “Giving You All Control”, Camp creates pop-friendly songs, but doesn’t explore any new territory. Camp fans will dig the latest record, but it isn’t anything we haven’t heard before. Highlights: “There Will Be a Day” “My Fortress” – jesse carey” - jennifer e. jones

Camp, Jeremy

• Speaking Louder Than Before
  On the press release accompanying Jeremy Camp’s latest album, Speaking Louder Than Before, a bold headline reads, “Husband. Father. Artist.” Along with a few pictures of Jeremy Camp the rock star, is a family portrait. This is a good metaphor for his latest CD and the direction of his career. In a way, Jeremy Camp’s music is secondary to his personality and his celebrity in the Christian music world. Along with being an artist, Jeremy Camp strives to be a minister and a model of a solid Christian guy (which is admirable), but doesn’t seem overly interested in breaking new ground as an artist. With polished, upbeat inspiration tracks like “I’m Alive” and “Giving You All Control”, Camp creates pop-friendly songs, but doesn’t explore any new territory. Camp fans will dig the latest record, but it isn’t anything we haven’t heard before. Highlights: “There Will Be a Day” “My Fortress” – jesse carey
• Beyond Measure
  If you already love Jeremy Camp, then you’ll take an interest in his latest album. However, Camp will be hard-pressed to win over new fans with Beyond Measure. This project -- and honestly every project since 2002’s Stay -- is a mix of the same songs and lyrics scrambled just enough to call it new. If played against heavy hits like “Understand” or even “Lay Down My Pride”, very few songs on Beyond Measure can measure up. “Feels Like” is the strongest attempt at stirring up praise where Camp belts out a half dozen “hallelujahs” near the end. Don’t get me wrong. Camp is a phenomenal rock star with a message that is nothing short of inspiring. However, I’m afraid that we’ve seen the best he’s got in his earlier works. Album Highlights: “Feels Like” and “I Am Nothing” - jennifer e. jones
• Live Unplugged
  He’s live, he’s unplugged, and he sounds exactly the same. Even in this stripped down acoustic set (which really isn’t stripped down when you have a full band and mini orchestra), Jeremy Camp’s vocals are note-for-note the same as on the originals. Certain selections such as “I Still Believe” and “Walk by Faith” are nearly identical to the album versions. There’s no improvisation nor added innovative spice to the songs. The saving grace of Live Unplugged is the DVD. Camp talks about his new family, shares his faith, and shows a humorous side that’s downright charming. Diehard, can’t-get-enough-of-him fans will covet this intimate look at Camp but for everyone else, wait until something new comes out. Album Highlights: “My Desire” and “Stay” - jennifer e. jones

Carlozo, Lou

• Stick Figure Soul
  What happens when a critic makes his own attempt at musical greatness? If Lou Carlozo’s (Chicago Tribune) new album is a guide, it isn’t anything to get excited about. Having played in two bands before, Carlozo is a talented musician, but his dated sound (think late 60’s) will resonate with few listeners. Probably anticipating this, Carlozo tried to make up for it with his lyrics. But his aims at grand symbolism are more confusing than inspiring, and sometimes he uses the same symbols on more than one track. Further, parents need to look out for songs like “Solomon Has Sung,” which heavily hints at sex. Stick Figure Soul does have an overlying message of redemption—which is clearly heard in the songs “Always” and “Morning Hurts My Eyes”—but that can be found on nearly any Christian album. Finding it on Carlozo’s comes at too high a cost. Highlights: “Morning Hurts My Eyes” and “Always.” – bethany duval

Carr, Sheri

• Fearless Now
  In the realm of Christian worship music, Sheri Carr is no amateur. The artist has participated in several Vineyard recordings and is already being played on the radio. Fearless Now, Carr’s solo debut, is quickly revealing that her dynamic voice and humble attitude is worth recognition. The album is exactly what should be expected of a contemporary worship leader, complete with a backup choir on a few tracks and simple repetitive lyrics that make it easy to catch on. The 12 songs that make up this album are not the successful, jumpy pop tunes heard too often today. Instead, they are the basic offerings of a Christ follower and church leader. And that is what makes them valuable. Album Highlights: "Into Your Arms" and "Sing Your Praise" – amy nickerson

Carried Away

• Closer to You
  Carried Away offers pop worship at its sugary worst. They harmonize like angels but after a few tracks, they sound like an all-female Jump5 cover band with far less energy. The rock songs pale in the afterglow of groups like BarlowGirl. Their Disney-esque arrangments may delight preteens but not anyone who wants depth in their lyrics. The silver lining on this album is their duet with Jeff Deyo mostly because it has his signature sound. Album Highlights: "Carried Away" - jennifer e. jones

Casting Crowns

• The Altar and The Door  
  There’s a reason why Casting Crowns is one of the best Christian bands out today, and that reason is evident when you listen to The Altar and The Door. After three albums, lead singer/songwriter Mark Hall still knows how to speak for those who cannot. “Every Man” hits you right between the eyes as Hall places himself in everyone’s shoes. He paints a hopeful picture of forgiveness on "East to West" (i.e., “Can you tell me how far the east is from the west... One scarred hand from the other”) . He still knows how to ask the hard questions as he does on “Somewhere in the Middle” when he says, “Would we trade our dreams for His?” The Altar and The Door leaves plenty of room for the sinners and the saints to come closer to Jesus. Album Highlights: “East to West” and “What This World Needs” - jennifer e. jones
• Lifesong  
  What a relief to know that Mark Hall hasn’t back down lyrically. While “Lifesong” and “Praise You in This Storm” are full of the usual CCM sentiments, songs like “Does Anybody Hear Her,” “Love Them Like Jesus,” and “While You were Sleeping” go straight to your heart and pull you into deeper levels of loving your neighbor. While they continue to serve up Top 40 pop melodies, they show their diversity in “Prodigal” with a beautiful classical guitar. As good as the first time? Well, Mark’s hard-hitting lyrics may no longer be novel, but they still pack a mean punch. The songs where they go off the beaten CCM trail are worth the second time around. Album Highlights: “Set Me Free,” “Does Anybody Hear Her,” and “Prodigal”
• Casting Crowns  
  Radio hit "If We Are the Body" is only the beginning of the rich treasures found on this CD. Read the full review...

Casting Pearls

• Casting Pearls
  Veterans of the indie scene, Casting Pearls, make a solid showing in their national debut, one that is sure to encourage all listeners to "Focus" on God. Fronted by Bryan Olesen, former Newsboys guitarist, this Midwest band blends modern acoustic and high-energy rock along with powerful vocals to give music fans a variety of songs that will not bore. Album Highlights: "Alright," "All About Love," "Revolution," "Loves Done Something" - hannah goodwyn

Chapman, Steven Curtis

• Beauty Will Rise
  Coming from the depths of Steven Curtis Chapman's soul after the tragic death of his daughter Maria, Beauty Will Rise is a testament to God's faithfulness during our darkest times. The album chronicles Chapman's wrestling bout with God, and his ultimate surrender to the One who holds him close through unbearable pain. Lyrically, Beauty Will Rise is one of Chapman's greatest gifts to the broken and hurting of this world. For anyone who needs supernatural strength and peace, this new album reaffirms that "Jesus Will Meet You There", and "Our God is in Control". Album Highlights: "Heaven is the Face", "Beauty Will Rise", and "Spring is Coming" - hannah goodwyn
• This Moment
  In addition to a legacy of accolades and achievements, Steven Curtis Chapman is celebrating today -- right now -- on his latest album. His classic CCM sound is heard throughout tracks like “Miracle of the Moment". He runs the full range of the human experience from walking the streets of London in “Yours” to the joy within the struggles of motherhood on “One Heartbeat at a Time”. Speaking of family, look out for “Cinderella” to catch on as the next big father-daughter song like its predecessor “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle. Chapman’s sons, Will and Caleb, are now part of his band, and you can hear their influence on the youthful “Children of God” and “You Are Being Loved”. Definitely a keeper for SCC fans. Album Highlights: “Miracle of the Moment” and “You Are Being Loved” - jennifer e. jones
• All I Really Want for Christmas
  This is everything a Christmas album should be. Rather than falling into the too often used routine of regurgitating a compilation of slightly different renditions of traditional Christmas tunes, Steven has produced an album with a truly nice mix of traditional and original work. You’ll be put in a praising mood with the song, “Angels From The Realm of Glory,” and be getting into the Christmas spirit with “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” Steven’s passion for God and family comes thru loud and clear, which is what makes him Steven Curtis Chapman. Icing on the cake of this work is the delightful storytelling introduction and concluding song by daughter Shaohannah. This album is a must have for any Christmas collection. Album Highlights: "Angels from the Realm of Glory" and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" - tim crowley

Chasen

• Shine Through the Stars
  Chasen Callahan, lead singer of Chasen, states that his band’s goal is to reach people wherever they are. Though other bands with this goal might neutralize their lyrics in order to draw in non-Christians, Chasen’s debut album, Shine Through the Stars, leaves no doubt as to what the band holds as their top priority. With a light rock style, Chasen’s simple praise lyrics are reflective of their time spent writing choruses for their church. The opening track sings, “If it comes down to the world and loving you, I choose you.” Other songs such as “Crazy Beautiful” and “History Tonight” acknowledge the pain of this world while offering the hope of God. Though these lyrics certainly aren’t new to the Christian music world, Chasen does deliver them with admirable skill that, if not inspiring, is still pretty enjoyable to listen to. Highlights: “Crazy Beautiful” and “Drown.” - bethany duVal

Chynna & Vaughan

• One Reason
  

  When Chynna Phillips and Vaughan Penn teamed up to write their new album, One Reason, “mediocrity” probably wasn’t in their vocabulary. Separately each enjoys a good share of awards and legitimate national success, but together they sound like a rehashed quasi-country version of Point of Grace. “Eye for an Eye” is the only noteworthy song on the album, but even it gets stained with the tame commercial Christianese of Wal-Mart style CCM. Two superstars on the same team doesn’t always translate into victory. If you wonder why that is, I can give you at least One Reason… Album Highlight: "Eye for an Eye" - rob vischer

Circleslide

• Uncommon Days
  Circleslide puts on a great live show but lacks a consistent “wow” factor on CD. Tracks like “Gravity” and “Walking on the Waves” are songs of great spiritual significance lyrically, as is most of the album, but musically they simply don’t go far enough. Because several songs sit on the margin, certain ones stand out brilliantly such as the hope-inspiring “Get Up.” The guitar sizzles on “Noah,” where the U2 influences can be heard. Plus, “The Weatherboy (C’mon, C’mon)” lets Gabe Martinez really dig into his vocal depth. The days aren’t terribly uncommon at times but they offer a decent debut nonetheless. Album Highlights: “The Weatherboy (C’mon, C’mon)” and “Get Up” - jennifer e. jones

Collins, Curt

• Another Day
  Edgy and original are two words that describe Curt Collins new album Another Day. The album is great for people who are seeking praise & worship, and inspirational songs in one CD. Having a variety of slow, medium, and fast-paced tempo songs, Collins’ music gives listeners lyrics and beats to dance, relax, or worship to. It also includes Collins’ rendition of the Classics "Blessed Assurance" and "Jesus Paid It All." Over all, when compared to other Christian artists, Collins’ sound and style is very unique and is truly his own. His fans, past and future, will not be disappointed. Album highlights: "Shelter Me," "Once Again," and "Jesus Paid It All" – kimberly a. lilly

Connersville

• Connersvine
  Chris Wilson, the artsy guitarist, and Hunter Smith, the professional football player, wouldn’t strike most as a likely pair, but when they’re singing as a band in the recording studio, every difference is forgotten. In their self-titled album, Connersvine, these young men bring us a soft rock sound very similar to that of Jeremy Camp. The first song, “Glory Be,” introduces a theme of worship that continues through the rest of the album in songs such as “Lay Down” and “Hosanna.” In the middle, listeners will closely identify with the songs “Sacred Mystery,” which speaks of the impossibility of fully knowing God, and “Closely Far Away,” in which Wilson and Smith wrestle with the conundrum of the distance of God’s kingdom and the closeness of His Spirit. Most wouldn’t put these men together, but together they bring a solid message in a format that will be welcomed by listeners of all kinds. Album Highlights: “Glory Be,” “Closely Far Away,” and “Overflow” - bethany duval

Crabb, Jason

• Jason Crabb
  Like Christy Nockels, Jason Crabb is not new to the Christian music scene. For years, he and his family (simply known as The Crabb Family) entertained and encouraged audiences with their Southern Gospel sound. Now Jason's stepping out with his first CD as a solo artist. The record is what you'd expect from this southern music lovin', pastor's kid; it's packed full of catchy, country-flavored tunes and energetic Gospel songs. For those who aren't used to the country music genre, the twang might be a little much. All in all, this Dove Award winning artist will do well as a solo artist. Album Highlights: "Somebody Like Me" and "Walk on Water" - hannah goodwyn

Cunningham, Adam

• Adam Cunningham
  Adam Cunningham couldn’t be normal even if he tried. Although he’s a down-home boy who’s a whole lot of country with a little bit of rock and roll, his self-titled project is unpretentious and close to the heart. Like any debut, there are home runs, and there are a few ground balls. Adam has radio-ready hits in “What Love Can Do” and “One Angel”, while I could do without the bouncy “Come Back”. He mixes love songs for his wife and for his Savior, which is a refreshing trend for new Christian artists. He also pines for the salvation of an old friend on “Friend of Mine”. His worship leader side comes out on songs like “You Are My God” and “Glory Down”. With all that, Adam should be the artist to watch in ’07. Album Highlights: “What Love Can Do” and “Friend of Mine”   - jennifer e. jones