Reviewed by Chris Tozer

As it states on the cover, this double CD contains the best on offer from 31 of the year's top Christian artists. Like all hits collections this album enables space travellers, and anyone else who has been off the planet awhile, to catch up on what they've been missing in CCM during the last 12 months. But, if this selection is anything to go by, there hasn't been all that much to shout about while the astronauts have been away. True, the roster includes seasoned veterans such as Steven Curtis Chapman and Darlene Zschech, as well as today's big names - from feminine formations like ZOEgirl and BarlowGirl to the still oh so young Stacie Orrico. Also featured are established bands like Jays Of Clay, Third Day and The Newsboys. The last time I reviewed this kind of album I felt that the contributing artists still had their eye on the ball but this time I'm not so sure. Despite the assertion of Mr Chapman that the Lord makes all things new I sensed that his disciples are guilty of a degree of staleness as I listened to this generous double CD selection of what ought to be the cream of the last year's play lists from Stateside Christian radio stations. Happily there are some standout tracks such as "Here With Me" by MercyMe and "Ready To Fly" by FFH. Mark Schultz still touches the heart with his touching story song "Letter From War" but this time my personal favourite track has to be the one British song - Matt Redman's "Blessed Be Your Name" sung by Tree63. As usual, in terms of production and performance, all the featured artists and producers give their secular counterparts a good run for their money. But, as in my previous review, I still bemoan the lack of decent songwriters in the Church today. If these songs are the best on offer then I fear that the secular charts will continue to be bereft of sanctified music in the near future. Spacemen save your money.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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