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Group1Crew (Fervent Records/Word)

Chalk it up to healthy skepticism born from experience, but when a new group debuts with a number in its name, critics prepare for something cheesy, derivative, and second-rate. But Group1Crew proves to be one of the year's most pleasant surprises—an electric and eclectic urban pop trio that truly competes with The Fugees and Black-Eyed Peas. Strong production values and infectious pop hooks make this a fun party record that's also grounded in God's Word. Urban pop and hip-hop too often come across as hokey in Christian music, but this Crew somehow keeps it real without compromising their spiritual content, relating where they come from and what they're going through. "A Lot in Common," "No Plan B," and "I Have a Dream" all convey familiar themes without resorting to trite expressions. The threesome is remarkably self-assured for a new act, and there's energy galore in their live performance. All of which makes Group1Crew the heir apparent to the legacy of Souljahz, if not dc Talk.

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True Beauty (Sparrow Records/EMI)

Anyone who watched American Idol back in 2006 couldn't help but recognize that Mandisa Hundley was an amazing vocalist. And her outspoken faith left little question that she'd be an instant success in Christian music—she's already dueting with everyone from tobyMac to Michael W. Smith. The only thing that could have held her back in our image-obsessed culture was her plus-size figure. But in facing that obstacle head-on—first on American Idol, and then her book Idoleyes—Mandisa quickly established herself as a fearfully and wonderfully made everywoman, not to mention the brightest pop-diva darling since Nicole C. Mullen. Recurring themes of building self-esteem and finding identity through God's love are also found in her music. Though the album lacks musical focus, it goes to show that Mandisa is capable of an assorted range of styles that will benefit from the right match of producers and songwriters. She nevertheless soars on the pop ballad "God Speaking," and her studio rendition of Mary Mary's "Shackles" is outstanding. Imagine how much better Mandisa will be once she settles into a musical identity and makes the transformation from singer to artist.

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Indiana (Island Records/EMI)

Following in the footsteps of piano pop stars like Billy Joel and Elton John, Jon McLaughlin arrived on the scene in 2007 like a cleaner version of Ben Folds, somewhere between the AC-friendly pop of Mark Schultz and the broader themes of The Fray. People are taking notice, and not just the Christian market. Earning strong reviews in the mainstream, the 24-year-old singer/songwriter was featured on three film soundtracks this past year, including the Disney hit Enchanted. But McLaughlin remains grounded in the faith-based values of his Midwest upbringing. "Praying to the Wrong God" reminds us not to put faith in worldly things, while "Human" and "People" reflect humanity's desperate need for grace. Because McLaughlin's songs are relatable to teens and adults alike, and also seem to cross spiritual barriers, you can bet we'll be hearing more from this budding talent for years to come.

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