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Welcome to our fifth semi-annual independent artist spotlight. The music industry continues to come to grips with technological advances like digital file sharing and cost-effective recording gear. In some ways, it makes it harder to find longevity as an artist with a recording contract. In other ways, it's easier than ever for an indie artist to make a start and get music into the hands of a willing audience. The following ten examples, gathered over the last six months or so, prove that point. Some could well be on their way to greater success, and others will remain more effective at sharing their music locally. What they all have in common is a level of excellence that rivals what is heard by other artists on the radio and sold in stores. Click on the links to the artists' websites for sound clips, ordering CDs, and booking information.

www.1000generations.com

You might recall an album from Vineyard Music Group called 1000 Generations, involving a modern worship team from Atlanta. This is not the same group, though it is a worship team bearing the same name from a Vineyard church in Indianapolis. Led by multi-instrumentalist Steven Potaczek and his wife Amanda, it's an exemplary and eclectic pop album. Except for the opening track—the world-music influenced "He Is Yahweh" from Vineayrd's All I Need—1000 Generations relies on vertically focused pop originals that most resemble the music of Paul Simon, Michael W. Smith, and Bruce Hornsby (who has personally complimented the band's musical talents, especially Potaczek's stunning piano proficiency). "Eyes" is a wonderful and celebratory fusion of Latin, jazz, and South African pop. You can't help but think of early Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant on "Do You Know This Man?"—a piano-driven ballad that tells the Passion story. And that's just three of the album's eleven highlights, which all outshine the usual clichéd modern worship. It has everything you could ever want in a worship album: original songwriting, a relatively unique sound, breathtaking musicianship, and a passion for encouraging others to walk closer with the Lord. Trust me: Check out this album.

www.avalwilliams.com

Philadelphia native Ava L. Williams grew up singing in her hometown, and her music ministry has taken her to places as diverse as the Cayman Islands and Carnegie Hall. She's also shared the stage with artists like Byron Cage and Percy Bady. Williams' first solo project, recorded live at her church in Philadelphia, is a collection of gospel-infused praise and worship songs. Her full, throaty soprano ranges from light and feathery with lots of vibrato to a rich, earthy growl. Styles include upbeat praise and worship, old-school gospel, slower, more contemplative numbers and even a lullaby. Musical and production quality on this album are more than comparable to that of major-label counterparts. Though nearly every song on this album is exceptional, outstanding cuts include the reflective title track; "In His Temple," which describes the atmosphere of worship in God's temple; "I Will Bless the Lord," tinged with Caribbean flavor; "How Could They Not Know Him," sweet and emotive; and the loving tribute, "I Love the Way You Treat Me." (by LaTonya Taylor)

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