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Everyone knew this guy could sing from his days with Caedmon's Call. Now that he's solo, we get to hear him that much more. An album of songs that lovingly criticize the church is a delicate balance, not just in songwriting but also in performance. Webb's delivery is neither angry nor spineless—he sells his message here with strength and confidence.

Some would say that his gravelly, neo-grunge Scott Stapp impersonation is nothing that hasn't been imitated by many others. To use it to convincingly sing about unwavering faith in light of loss, however, is truly something special. It was a big year for Camp; expect 2004 to be even bigger for him with two more albums on the way.

No surprise here. A terrific live band and a solid album with The Beautiful Letdown. Nearly a year after its release, it's finally gaining momentum with considerable airplay on radio and television, and a Top 50 spot on Billboard's album charts. It's all well deserved, with a fairly open spiritual message to boot. Switchfoot, welcome to the Roaring Lamb ranks!

These guys are always stretching artistically, both in their songwriting and in keeping their live show fresh. Lead singer Dan Haseltine told us recently that it felt like the band had "come home" in its return to rootsy, folksy, bluesy music. Apparently so, since Jars has probably never sounded as sure of themselves as they have on the aptly titled Who We Are Instead. Now we know—this is a great rock band, but also a strong folk group.

One can't help but get excited listening to these guys. And yes, they are this good live—expect a gospel/blues/rocking good time if you see them. The band is tight from every angle, but Randolph shines the most. He's to the pedal steel as Hendrix/Keaggy are to the electric, or Parkening/Segovia to the acoustic. In other words, a master of his craft.

Our contributors are in agreement that Payable on Death is not this band's best work. That certainly doesn't make it a bad album. P.O.D. remains a powerful live act, continuing to serve as one of Christianity's greatest musical ambassadors (despite the ban of their new album from most Christian bookstores). Also, we suspect they've only scratched the surface of potential with the addition of guitarist Jason Truby.

About everyone we've personally shared this band with has been impressed after hearing Ghosts. Anthemic rock, inspired melodies, soaring vocals, powerful guitars, delicate strings, spiritually inspired poetry … what's not to like? Whether or not it's this year, it'll only be a matter of time before Sleeping at Last catches on.

It's been a very good year for Stacie Orrico. Those expecting just another teen album were pleasantly surprised with her sophomore effort—as was the mainstream, gauging by the tremendous response. Displaying talent, maturity, and grace, it again goes to show that one can successfully cross over while still keeping the Christian faith intact.

As much as we love Caedmon's Call, Derek managed to outshine his old band's most recent project with She Must and Shall Go Free. It's missing Caedmon's trademark eclecticism, but the songwriting and musicianship are as brilliant as ever. Though it'd be nice to see Webb rejoin his friends someday, here's hoping the solo career is just getting started.

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