By Andy Argyrakis

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

Though there’s still three full months to go, several record labels and artists are getting an early jump on the gift giving season by releasing a plethora of Christmas collections. Up first is BarlowGirl, who put its pop/rock slant on Home for Christmas (Fervent), followed closely behind by fellow girl group Point of Grace, turning in the self-explanatory Best of Point of Grace Christmas (Word). Vocal giant for the Gaither Vocal Band turned solo star David Phelps gives listeners a double dose of Yuletide charm on the CD/DVD O Holy Night (Word), while PureNRG is sure to satisfy tween tastes with A PureNRG Christmas (Fervent).

Be sure to check out our “Christmas Music Preview” beginning October 6, exclusively at CCMmagazine.com, ChristianMusicPlanet.com and CMCentral.com.

ANOTHER DOSE OF DOWNHERE

One of Canada’s finest Christian rock exports, Downhere, shares the unique distinction of being critical favorites but also radio staples, a tradition the players hope to continue across Ending is Beginning (Centricity). The project once again finds Jason Germain and Marc Martel trading verses over the band’s sweeping soundscapes that swagger with confident alternative rock one second and simmer with ethereal balladry the next.

BREWSTER’S BACK

After first finding secular fame writing, recording and touring with legendary Journey singer Steve Perry (during the now classic For the Love of Strange Medicine era), Lincoln Brewster entered the Christian music ranks on tour with Michael W. Smith. From there, the singer/songwriter/guitarist took to worship leadership of his own, developing a particularly impressive career merging praise material with jaw-dropping six string strumming. His latest, Today Is the Day (Integrity), once again puts an individual stamp on today’s vertical movement, with tracks like the title cut already finding airplay on radio and in church services.

For a complete list of new and upcoming albums, check out our new releases page.