2012 started out as a pretty pitiful year musically. The first half of the year did not offer a lot to a guy like me who is trying to make a top 5 list. In fact when you see my top five, four of them came out in September or later. The last third of the year offered some amazing music though, so let's dive into the top 5.
5.) Phillip Phillips-- The World From The Side Of The Moon. This debut album from 2012 American Idol winner is pretty amazing. The best Idol Winner debut since Carrie Underwood's Some Hearts. Phillip's voice is quirky, and not always perfect, but his style is great and his melodies infectious. He wrote or co-wrote over half the songs; and this collection really reflects an artist on the rise. (This December release bumped Taylor Swift off y top 5).
4.) Chelsea Moon-- Hymns Project, Vol. 2. Imagine getting a call from your metal-head brother-in-law telling you to go listen to this artist who is so great. Then imagine hearing the folk/bluegrass infused hymn arrangements of this CD. Couldn't believe the cool styles of this young woman's second collection of hymns. Even more surprising that my brother-in-law loved it, Not sure how early in the year this came out, but it is the only pre-September release on the countdown.
Now we come to the top three. These have been floating around as the top three for a couple months, trying to be put in order, but it really depends on my mood. All three are from veteran Christian artist that have not released a full studio album of original vocal work in over 10 years, and all are amazing comebacks. This is there order in my mind today, but lets just call them the top 3.
3.) Bryan Duncan-- Conversations. This project came about because of a group of fans (myself included) who pledged money through kickstarter to put this CD out. I am sure none of the backers are disappointed. Bryan's vocals are as smooth as they were back in the Sweet Comfort Band days, and his lyrics are more heartfelt and personal than ever. I could play this CD over and over for hours.
2.) Sixpence None The Richer-- Lost in Translation. When Sixpence broke up over a decade ago I was sad. They had always brought the alternative Christian music scene an aura of intelligence and beauty in their music that really couldn't be matched. When they got back together for a Christmas album a few years ago I was hoping a new project would follow I was not disappointed. These are some of the catchiest tunes the band has delivered, without losing any of the intelligence of their message,
1.) Charlie Peacock-- No Man's Land. After spending the last decade concentrating on producing other artists, and releasing a pair of jazz CDs, Christian music's thinker, Charlie Peacock, returns with an amazing collection of tunes infused with cajun and blue grass influences. So glad he is back. You must buy this album and play it often.
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