variOus artists WOW Hits 2011 (EMI) FOR FANS OF: Christian Radio QQQ Celebrating its sweet sixteen, the perennial WOW Hits dynasty faithfully returns to offer 30 radio-ready Christian music tracks. Culling mega-bands (skillet, third day), singer/ songwriter favorites (Brandon Heath, Josh Wilson), relevant legends (amy Grant, steven curtis chapman), plus bonus newcomers (chris august, the Museum), the platinum- selling assemblage fashionably playlists Christian music’s most commercial stars in one single price-pointed package. “Deluxe edition” includes six exclusive remixes. –Andrew Greer WE LIKE: “Lay ‘Em Down” - NEEDTOBREATHE BrOOKe Fraser Flags (Wood & Bone Records) FOR FANS OF: Bethany Dillon, Ingrid Michaelson QQQQ Quick disclaimer: Flags doesn’t live up to Albertine. Then again, there’s arguably no way for Brooke fraser to match her pitch-perfect 2006 lp. Flags impresses all the same once expectations are out of the way with the quirky ode to love “something in the Water” and the absolutely stunning title track that closes the album. “coachella” finds spirituality at a music festival, while her beautiful duet with aqualung’s Matt Hales, “Who are We fooling,” lingers long after it’s finished. –Matt Conner WE LIKE: “Flags” JOsh White Achor (BEC Recordings) FOR FANS OF: Blake Shelton, Jack Johnson, Blessid Union of Souls QQQ straying far from the polished brit-rock of his previous work, White (former lead singer for telecast) has embraced a whole new bluegrass sound. His earthy solo project, entitled “Achor,” is haunting and lovely. Though the vocals sound a bit muted in some places, the overall feel is warm and inviting. White effortlessly sings unique worship songs like “You amaze Me,” and the eager anthem, “show Me Your Hands.” as the pastor of a church in oregon, it’s clear White has honed his craft into a unique and beautiful project. –Grace S. Cartwright WE LIKE: “Our God is Present” adult COntempOrary revieWs adult COntempOrary neW releases 01.18.2011 BRandon HeatH LEAving EDEn (Reunion RecoRds/ pRovident) 01.25.2011 vaRious WOW gOspEL 2011 2CD (veRitY RecoRds/ pRovident/vaRious) adult Contemporary All release dates and album titles are subject to change. For the most up-to-date release schedule, visit www.todayschristianmusic.com/new-releases. CCM 41