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 1 of 5

It's time again to call attention to "the little guys," the up-and-coming Christian artists most people have yet to hear about. I'm especially proud of this list of independent artists (presented in no particular order). The quality of these musicians and songwriters is so top-notch, it made the selection process especially competitive—to the point where I've had to carry over a number of semi-finalists for consideration in our October 2003 edition. Though not quite as polished as most major Christian releases, all of these projects can hold their own against what you'll find on the shelves in Christian bookstores. There's something for everybody in this impressively diverse list, so do check out the websites to hear examples of their work.

So Many Reasons
Soulful, mellow blues-inflected pop
www.sarahscharbrough.com

An Indiana native from a musical family, Sarah Scharbrough later pursued her own music ministry while attending Anderson University near Indianapolis. Combining her experience as a worship leader with the introspective songwriting of a coffeehouse artist, Sarah usually tours with her husband, drummer Jeff McLaughlin, and brother, bassist Steven Scharbrough. What immediately grabs the ear when listening to her music is Sarah's surprisingly soulful voice—imagine a bluesy and jazzy version of Cindy Morgan, Nichole Nordeman, or Sara Groves with Mariah Carey's alto range. Many of her songs focus on the goodness of God's love and grace in smartly written ways, such as "What You've Made Me" and the title track. Other highlights include the sweet wedding anthem "Made for You" and the public transportation evangelism of "The Only One." It's refreshing that Sarah allows her songs to breathe beyond the restrictions of the simple three-minute pop song, allowing room for thoughtful verses, instrumental solos, and vocal improvisation. She'd be that much better if she stretched herself by adding a few upbeat songs to her mellow repertoire, but this is an incredibly well made indie debut no matter how you slice it. The best kept secret in Christian songwriting since Sara Groves, I'd be amazed if Sarah Scharbrough wasn't signed to a major Christian label someday soon.

Commas Come First
Folk pop/rock
www.koochung.com

This 26-year-old New York native began his music ministry at Boston University, jamming to praise songs with friends at church. That led to the founding of Broken for Good, the band that Koo fronted for two independent albums before going solo. Koo's second solo release, Commas Come First, boasts an impressive lineup of Christian talent. Jars of Clay's Steve Mason plays guitar on several tracks, and longtime Jars bassist Aaron Sands plays throughout the album. Andrew Peterson (one of Koo's favorites) makes a brief guest appearance, and his long-time friend, multi-instrumentalist Gabe Scott, plays all manner of stringed instruments. There's even a couple appearances by Sixpence None the Richer's Matt Slocum on cello. The fact that Koo is surrounded by so much talent says a lot about his own skills as a songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist. Switching effortlessly between upbeat, radio-friendly, acoustic pop and quieter folk ballads for the coffee shops, Koo thoughtfully explores spiritually inspired subjects ranging from God's providence ("No Mistake"), struggles with stubborn obsessions ("Blue"), and the message of the Cross ("For Me"). Special points are awarded for the brilliant illustration of "Don't Let Go," the delightfully catchy "Walking My Way," and the Memento reference in "Mercy's Door." If you like the plainspoken folk pop of the aforementioned artists, as well as Bebo Norman and Rich Mullins, you'll love this terrific album.

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