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Contemporary worship was already a phenomenon in Christian music at this time last year. But few could have known about the tragedy that was to come on September 11, or the comfort and impact that songs of worship would bring to so many, particularly Michael W. Smith's Worship project. Here then, in no particular order, is our new list of favorite worship albums, chosen for their level of artistry, their thoughtful words of praise, and their practical impact on the worshiping body of Christ.

Various Artists (Essential)

Andy: The second installment of this widely popular series stays in the tradition of joining together some of Christian music's biggest stars in unique duets. Like the first volume, the sequel features the production work of Steve Hindalong and Marc Byrd, who base the project on gentle acoustic beats and rousing orchestral crescendos. With such wonderful collaborations as Nichole Nordeman, Mac Powell (Third Day), and Jennifer Knapp on "Sing Alleluia," and Cademon's Call with Phil Keaggy on "Communion," you'll enjoy spine tingling praise.

Russ: Christians come together for the sake of worshiping the Almighty with creativity. Old hymns blend with modern worship. Inspirational songwriters duet with roots rockin' lead vocalists. There's even a liturgically based mini-communion service in the album's final few songs. This album is what worship and Christian community are all about.

Shane Barnard and Shane Everett (Inpop)

Russ: I've picked Psalms for this list primarily because of Shane Barnard's songwriting skills, specifically his gift for artful-yet-catchy adaptations of Scripture for worship. Numerous artists have used the Psalms as a source for songwriting over the years, but few have done it as well by appropriating key verses and phrases to verses and choruses. Since Shane also uses draws upon Job and Hosea for this album, I look forward to seeing what else he can do with God's word for years to come.

Andy: What I really appreciate about Barnard and Everett's transformation of the Psalms into these modern-day musical compositions is their strong acoustic musicianship. Clearly, the duo was influenced by the likes of Caedmon's Call and Dave Matthews Band, and being able to pull off the vocals, guitars, and backing beats with similar flair works in the duo's favor, giving a relevant sound to such sacred texts. Barnard is truly a modern-day troubadour whose possibilities seem endless given the vast material available in the Bible to work into verses and choruses.

Rock 'n' Roll Worship Circus (Vertical)

Andy: Known for their intense live show and classic rock and roll influences (Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, and The Beatles) the Rock 'n' Roll Worship Circus is a trailblazing rollicking rock band in Christian music, void of clichés and haphazard arrangements. Instead, their spiritual themes and vertical lyrics are couched behind a blaze of guitars and drums, backed even more importantly by personal integrity possessed by each group member.

Russ: I love Rock 'n' Roll Worship Circus for taking a different approach to praising God, combining fun British rock sounds with times of breath-taking worshipful atmosphere ala Pink Floyd. Anything that gets people excited about coming to worship the Lord is a good thing. Given time, I think this band might be as influential as Delirious has been on modern worship.

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