Lyrycyst Revolution Released November 2009 Andy Argyrakis

Style: rap crossed with hip-hop; compare to John Reuben, Eminem

Top tracks: "Take on the World," "It's a Movement," "You Can Be"

After a troubled upbringing that included abuse, struggles with suicide, and a hard-partying lifestyle, Steven Cooper, better known to fans as Lyrycyst, came to Christ through a friend. Now free of those demons, he's still got his old street-savvy edge while making a career of recording and touring.

With his third full-length album, Revolution, the rapper is at the top of his rhyme and relatability game, pumping up those struggling with self-esteem and other challenges by using his own road to recovery as the forefront example—all with hip-hop rhythms that draw parallels to Eminem, John Reuben and KJ-52.

"It's a Movement" and "Take on the World" are calls to action for believers, but pack enough production smarts to appeal to secular listeners. Acoustic hip-hop reflections like "You Can Be" come across like Mat Kearney's early material. Lyrycyst is by no means derivative, but a developing artist who keeps sharpening his songwriting. 

More: myspace.com/lyrycyst

Style: classically-inspired Christmas music

Top tracks: "O Come, All Ye Faithful," "What Child Is This?"

Near operatic vocals jell seamlessly with inventive string and piano arrangements of several traditional tunes, with a handful of original instrumental interludes to usher in a prayerful atmosphere. More: emmanuelshall.com.

Style: acoustically framed Christmas music

Top tracks: "Mary's Solitude," "Backstreets of Bethlehem"

Self-penned, unplugged tracks centered around holiday themes trump well-performed but generic covers that could be played while sipping Starbucks. More: danrubright.com.

Style: worshipful, soulful piano pop

Top tracks: "Prayer Is Rising," "On My Feet Again"

When flanked by horn-infused grooves and bouncy piano rhythms, Regi Stone shines with worshipful abandon, but occasionally his backing choir is overpowering to the point of distraction. More: registone.com.

Style: adult contemporary

Top tracks: "Bad Hair Day," "Long Way Home"

The founder of the If the Shoe Fits women's conference demonstrates her country-infused pop pipes, drawing comparisons to Point of Grace and Twila Paris, in spite of some sappy songwriting. More: shannonperry.com.

Style: modern worship

Top tracks: "Heaven Hear Us," "Who Can Ascend"

Splitting his time between artistry and worship leadership for the twenty-somethings at The Gathering Network near Kansas City, this troubadour is just as personal as he is congregational in this contemporary, Passion-inspired brand of praise. More: jonshirley.com.

To be considered for "Indie Spotlight," send an UNWRAPPED CD and press kit to:
Christian Music Today's "Indie Spotlight" C/O
Andy Argyrakis
465 Gunderson Drive
Carol Stream, IL 60188

Copyright © 2009 Andree Farias subject to licensing agreement with Christian Music Today. Click for reprint information.

Lyrycyst Revolution Released November 2009 Andy Argyrakis