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downhere
Word/Warner

We showered this band's 2001 debut with acclaim. That was no fluke, as evidenced by this solid follow-up, and they prove so without recording the same album twice. A terrific live act, downhere has successfully translated their concert sound to the studio by presenting more aggressive guitar rock. The band is strong in every way, from the solid rhythm of bass and drums, to the excellent guitars and impressive vocals of both lead singers. Their strong material is infectious in melody while striking a perfect balance of faith and artistry in the lyrics. These guys are on a roll, so bring on the third disc!
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Dakona
Maverick/Warner

Dakona cut its teeth on the independent circuit for five years, and it shows. Combining the anthemic qualities of U2 with the melodic neo-grunge edge of Lifehouse, this Canadian quartet is as appealing as either of those bands. The quality of the recording makes it one of the best debuts we've heard, Ryan McAllister's lead vocal is often excellent, and the songs balance subjects of faith and relationships well (much like Lifehouse). Here's yet another example of a band of faith getting its start in the mainstream, earning considerable airplay and opening for big names like Michelle Branch and Third Eye Blind. There's a lot to like here.
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Jill Paquette
Reunion

Those of you wishing that Jewel hadn't strayed from folk-pop should give this 24-year-old Canadian songwriter a try. She similarly covers a stylistic gamut ranging from the gentle to the roots rocking. Writing with an honesty and vulnerability that's as inviting as her lilting voice, Jill Paquette credibly articulates matters of doubt ("Not the Only One"), struggles ("Katie-Lynn"), and faith ("Free [Take My Life]"). And as a classically trained pianist and a talented acoustic guitarist, she has the instrumental talent to back it all up. This stunning debut firmly ranks Paquette in the same league as the other great folk-pop songwriters in Christian music.
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Derek Webb
INO

The former member of Caedmon's Call tells it like it is in this musical epistle to the church, without pulling punches or resorting to trite expressions. Because some of the metaphorical wording is so strong, some Christian bookstores wouldn't carry it. Nevertheless, Derek Webb convicts without condemning, lovingly pointing out the church's weaknesses by first pointing to himself. It's a challenging message of grace and faith that more Christians need to hear. He also stretches himself musically, effortlessly blending country and blues with his familiar folk-pop/rock sound. Caedmon's Call's loss is our gain with an entire album's worth of Webb's bold and insightful songwriting.
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