The year 2021 gave us some unique albums that are worth talking about. Like I usually say, I’m quite particular about lyrical content and themes.
I appreciate albums that take a more reflective approach to the expression of faith, however, for this list I’m focused on albums that are mostly direct in speaking about the Christian faith, Jesus Christ and our worship of Him.
Also, this is a ranked list.
Alright, that’s enough chit chat; let’s get into it.
10 — Far Away by Port Duo
Earlier this year, I wrote about Port Duo on a list of artists/bands that I wanted a full-length project from. Well, I got my wish and for the most part, it delivers. I’m a huge indie rock lover and that also makes me a fair bit of a critic.
I can’t say that everything on Far Away lands for me, but, for a debut, it’s a pretty good indie rock/alt-worship album.
Recommended Songs: Run; Jesus Your Love; War Going On
9 — Days of Youth by John Jin Han
My first encounter with John Jin Han was on a collaborative project with Isla Vista Worship back in 2020 titled Carried. On this record, it is clear that he experienced a lot of growth both as a person and as a musician.
My only gripe with this album is that John Jin Han still clearly sounds like his influences. Anyone who listens to many indie bands will be able to pick out the people who have shaped Han’s tastes over the years.
It’s a minor gripe but it is one that is born out of expectation. I believe that he is capable of so much more than he is delivering right now. Still, there is no denying that this is one of the most enjoyable alternative albums of the year.
Recommended Songs: Now That I Know; Youth; Love Remains
8 — The Voyager by ØM-53
Anyone who has been reading this newsletter for a little while has probably heard about this album and band already. I wrote a review on it here and it was quite clear to me that it would somehow make my top ten.
ØM-53’s greatest strength is that they are currently the best at what they do. If you’re into synthwave and 80’s nostalgia; this is the album for you.
Recommended Songs: Found The Light; Thunder; Rain Down
7 — A King & His Kindness by Caroline Cobb
Caroline Cobb is no stranger to the Christian singer-songwriter space. She is celebrated for her storytelling projects — an anthology of albums that focuses on various biblical themes ranging from creation to the second coming.
A King & His Kindness is the fourth instalment of the series and this album focuses on the life of Jesus Christ. With influences from folk, Americana, blues and gospel; this album was a pleasant surprise this year.
Recommended Songs: Who Is This Jesus?; Jesus, Full of Compassion; Turn The Tables
6 — Closer by Lion of Judah
There aren’t a lot of bands that do indie pop/electropop like Lion of Judah. They have consistently dropped great albums/EPs since they came on the scene and this album is no different.
Granted, I wish this album was a little longer and I need them to explore more sounds that make their influences a little less obvious; but I admire their consistency and ability to always deliver.
Recommended Songs: Closer; Kingdom Disposition; Negative Earth
5 — Onward & Upward by Jervis Campbell
I still remember my reaction when I first heard Jervis Campbell’s distinct voice. In my opinion, folk-pop is one of those genres that is a tad difficult to pull off because usually, I find that artists end up swinging one way more than the other.
Jervis Campbell’s voice is one major reason why he is able to walk the fine line between folk and pop effortlessly. Onward & Upward is a grounded and emotionally stirring album, full of heart and conviction.
Recommended Songs: Friend; Praise Him Forever; Hold Me Together
4 — Safe Place by Spencer Annis
Spencer Annis was able to craft something quite special for his second full-length album. Clocking out at roughly 31 minutes, Safe Place is soothing and quite surreal.
Generally speaking, I’d describe this album as dreamy indie pop but it might be a bit of an oversimplification. There are other elements scattered around this album ranging from folk-pop to retro wave. The only constant is Annis’ blissful voice which permeates this album seamlessly.
Recommended Songs: The Invitation; The Garden; Made New
3 — Requiem by Rachel Wilhelm
In some ways, this may be the most important album on this list. Written during the quarantine period of 2020, Requiem is an album that was dedicated to the lives lost and the sufferings that were brought about by the pandemic.
It is an album that brings Christ to the centre of these experiences speaking about loss and its relationship with hope and faith. What Rachel manages to achieve here is quite unique, blending traditional folk sounds with the neo-classical strings, chamber pop, hymnal arrangments and liturgical structures.
Recommended Songs: Mercy Jesus, Holy; Lord Have Mercy
2 — Something Like A Secret by Yaz Williams
The Christian indie-folk scene might be the most crowded space in the alternative spectrum. I have listened to many albums/EPs in this genre from various artists and bands over the years. It takes something really special to make the impression that Something Like A Secret made on me.
I love everything about this album, from start to finish. Like with every project, there are songs that hit me more than others; but in general, I wouldn't change anything about this one. It’s simply beautiful.
Recommended Songs: Stay ‘Til I Die; Independence; Nowhere Else
1 — You Are Fullness by Young Oceans
I don’t think it would be wrong to call You Are Fullness by Young Oceans a game-changer. When you break it down, this is a praise and worship album; the “challenge” is that it does not want to sound like one. This is an amazing challenge to be burdened with and the band delivers with uttermost class.
Even for Young Oceans, this album takes a few steps away from their ‘vintage’ sound — and I say this as a compliment. It is a progressive indie album that takes its time to build; crafting each track uniquely to create spacious, ambient and soothing soundscapes that are simply unforgettable.
Recommended Songs: Light of Your Love; Let Your Heart Sing; Lead Me (Back To You)
That’s all for today folks.
I hope 2022 gives us more gems.
Until next time.
Keep listening!
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