Our choices for the best faith-based albums of 2009...

 

Lindsay Williams, Editor

1. Leeland, Love Is On The Move (Essential)

A picture of social justice was never painted more eloquently.

2. Steven Curtis Chapman, Beauty Will Rise (Sparrow)

You'll cry buckets upon first listen. Beautifully raw; gut-wrenchingly honest; Chapman's best yet.

3. Britt Nicole, The Lost Get Found (Sparrow)

A surprisingly mature sophomore effort that will delight even those naysayers without a penchant for pop with Britt's thoughtful lyrics and catchy hooks.

4. NEEDTOBREATHE, The Outsiders (Atlantic/Word)

They may be outsiders, but this record solidifies their position as INSANE musicians. We're lucky to have them in our circle.

5. Fee, Hope Rising (INO)

This one took me by surprise—great songwriting, strong hooks perfect for corporate worship.

6. David Crowder Band, Church Music (sixstepsrecords)

They even cover a Flyleaf song! Is there ANYTHING Crowder & Co. won't try?

7. Switchfoot, Hello Hurricane (Atlantic/lowercase people/Credential)

The songs are as catchy as they are thought provoking. Say hello to the re-emerging sounds of the Beautiful Letdown era.

8. Phil Wickham, Heaven and Earth (INO)

If this is the direction modern "worship" is headed, count me in.

9. Christy Nockels, Life Light Up (sixstepsrecords)

Nockels proves her voice is still her best asset and one of Christian music's greatest gifts.

10. BarlowGirl, Love and War (Fervent)

The piano intro on "Beautiful Ending" has haunted me for months. The album is a beautiful new direction both musically and lyrically for the more grown-up Barlows.

 

Andy Argyrakis, Contributor

1. Switchfoot, Hello Hurricane (Atlantic/lowercase people/Credential)

A return to the socially conscious tones of The Beautiful Letdown that's once again loaded with crossover appeal.

2. Skillet, Awake (Atlantic/Ardent/INO)

Yet another blockbuster that debuted at No. 2 on the entire Billboard charts. For Panheads and newcomers alike, it's a sing-a-long from start to finish!

3. Sara Groves, Fireflies and Songs (INO)

This is her most honest and heartfelt singer/songwriter record to date. She continues to expose her soul and not be afraid to express personal vulnerabilities and fragilities.