CMR's Most Anticipated of 2010

Dear Readers,

Now that we are beginning a new year and we have a whole new set of album releases coming up, I thought I'd introduce the first annual MOST ANTICIPATED listing with an exciting line-up. Take a look, and then comment with your top picks! ~ Christian Lingner

15. Robbie Seay Band - Miracle

After signing with Sparrow Records in 2005, Robbie Seay Band has been creating worth-while modern worship tunes and releasing successful singles, and this album looks to further that trend.

14. Adie - Just You and Me

Beginning as the lead singer for the Christian rock band The Benjamin Gate, Adrienne Liesching married Jeremy Camp and began a solo career of her own, shortening her name to just Adie. Her sophomore album looks to prove her place in the industry and be one of the top records of the year.

13. Gungor - Beautiful Things

The Michael Gungor Band began in early 2008 with their debut "Ancient Skies," but only now as they are introducing their newest effort are they making some major buzz. Look for this up-and-coming band in the future.

12. Rebecca St. James - Untitled

After taking a long break from recording any new music, Rebecca is back. Announcing recently the new album is set for early 2010, this is something worth looking forward to, and has plenty of fans hoping is was worth the wait.

11. Tobymac - Tonight

Probably one of the most hyped releases in Christian music history, Tobymac's newest album looks to further his popularity with giant single chartings and big production. This will be one of the most successful in Christian music history almost for sure as well.

10. Starfield - The Saving One

Starfield, though one of Christian music's lesser known artists, is probably one of the best, and oldest bands in the scene. From rocking guitars to worship anthems, these guys mix their unique sound with Sparrow Record's tradition praise.

9. Meredith Andrews - As Long As It Takes

Testing her skills in 2008 alongside many other great debuts was probably the biggest problem with her first attempt, but despite being smothered in the hype other new artists, she was still a stand-out and will be again here. Make sure you take a look at this one is you enjoy the pop/worship sound of Kari Jobe or even Francesca Battistelli.

8. Luminate - Luminate EP

Luminate is the latest find of Sparrow Records, and it looks like this could be the best investment to date. Releasing their debut single lately, this band is bound to take off, and this will be their first real attempt to show off their talent.

7. Brenton Brown - Adoration

Hearing his music for the first time in 2009, I really enjoyed his soft and very worshipful praise style, and I am desperately waiting for this release. This promises to be one of the best albums of 2010, and I encourage you to look into this guy further.

6. Amy Grant - Somewhere Down the Road

Another new returning face for the new year, Amy Grant's big Christian music return. This is another hyped album, but for a reason. To me, if this is a flop, that Amy's career is about over. If it is a success, well, we might here some more of her in the future. This is a big question mark, but we'll have to wait until April to find the answer.

5. Rush of Fools - Untitled

With their third album in the works, this is sure to be one of the best praise and worship CD's of the year. Starting their professional career with a smash hit, and following it up with an album only better than their first, i am looking forward to this about as much as any other release.

4. Sanctus Real - Pieces of a Real Heart

Grammy nominated and Dove Award winning band Sanctus Real are back at it with their first project in one and a half years. The cause of anticipation? There previous effort proved one of the most influential, and top musically of 2008. Does that put you on the edge of your seat?

3. Danyew - Untitled

Okay, an artists you've probably never heard of and the title is, well, untitled. That gives you a lot to look forward to, I know. But seriously, this could an award-winning album in the makings, and I'm not getting to pass up the chance to tell you my excitement. Remember this name for future reference.

2. MercyMe - The Generous Mr. Lovewell

The name probably perplexed you about as much as me, but to tell you the truth, I don't care about the title as much as whether the music is good or not. And it will be good. Plenty of time has gone by to assure you they've got something under their sleeve, and this is going to be great. Don't miss out. Pre-order here.

1. Tenth Avenue North - The Light Meets the Dark

Tenth Avenue North began with a bang, and haven't slowed down a bit. Back to back No. 1 singles and a top-rated album as their debut, this is probably one of the most anticipated sophomore projects Christian music has known in recent years. Although very little is known of the contents of the disc, this early summer release will be pre-order worthy, and I guarantee a big hit with fans and new listeners alike. With mature lyrics and top-notch productions, there is nothing like a new band taking good to amazing, and this album is sure to do just that.

Update: The title and cover for the album have been confirmed, and the release date will be May 11th.