It’s time to celebrate an amazing year of well-crafted, faith-inspired music.  In 2023, we saw artists spreading their creative wings in new ways, and there were a LOT of new releases.  If you find it hard to keep up on it all, we will help point you the the “don’t miss” stuff… throughout the year, but especially in January, as we share the votes, comments, and recommendations of our amazing UTR Critics Panel.  In fact, the list of the Top 11 Gourmet Albums of 2023 is releasing on January 16.  These half-dozen albums were LOVED by our critics, but fell just outside our Top 11 list.  Still, we thought they are worthy to be spotlighted as 2023’s Honorable Mentions.

[These are listed in no particular order.  To qualify, must be a Christ-following artist, and the project released between 12/1/22 and 11/30/23.]

O Sun O Moon – Bruce Cockburn

It’s a young person’s game, if you are an athlete, dance instructor, or YouTube influencer. But thankfully, art is oftentimes enhanced with age and experience. Such is the latest from grizzled music veteran Bruce Cockburn, who delivers 12 new tracks of wisdom and sage guidance. One of our critics stated: “On O Sun O Moon, Cockburn’s insight and artistry have not faltered even 53 years after his debut album.”

[SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

Ordinary Ways – Jon Guerra

One of our panelists describes this May 2023 release as: “Welcoming and warm, Guerra shines a spotlight on the mundane majesties of everyday life. Much like the Psalms, Ordinary Ways covers the highs and lows, the hurts and healing of being human with these devotional prayers.” You will find tenderness, vulnerability, and faith-focused reminders on every track. Guerra continues to carve out a unique and vibrant musical niche for himself.

[SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

Wayward & Home, Part 2 – Drakeford

The lastest release from Drakeford is that perfect marriage of hook-infused pop-folk with thoughtful and soul-stirring lyrics. One UTR critic describes this project as “rich acoustic textures that underscore solid melodies and lyrics dripping in depth of the human experience.” Another critic called it “another adventure in exquisite songwriting. I never tire of listening to Drakeford’s superb music.”

[SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

No More Wasted Years – Common Hymnal

Music can take on many roles, as it’s there for celebration, contemplation, grief, worship… and in the latest from the acclaimed music collective Common Hymnal, you’ll find questions, passion, protest, challenge, and spiritual conviction. One UTR panelist aptly called No More Wasted Years “stirring modern gospel-soul music that does not avoid serious topics. Let’s just say they have my full attention.”

[SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

Hopeful Hearts Club – Jervis Campbell

This North Carolina native avoids any sign of a sophomore slump on his second career studio album.  One UTR panelist raves, “Both rootsy and polished, Campbell’s baritone voice sells the hopeful refrain of the lyrics and invites one into the struggle and victory of life.” Another called this “an uplifting and vulnerable folk-pop masterpiece that merges spirituality, mental health, and the fight against cynicism with ease.”

[SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

I Can’t Find the Edges of You – Citizens

“This album challenges you,” stated one UTR critic, “to embody the faith you profess, and extend it to those you would rather disagree with. The type of Christian music we need.”  Citizens delivers an ambitious project that could be the soundtrack for the hope-filled deconstructionist – not afraid of questions while embracing the mystery of the Divine.  Another critic said, “These songs are poignant and powerful with more seasoned intensity.”

[SPOTIFY LINK]  [YOUTUBE LINK]

Enjoy diving into these six highly recommended albums.  Check out Episode 95 of the Gourmet Music Podcast (releasing 1/5/24) for an audio feature of these Honorable Mentions.

We’d. love to hear from you!  Are any of these picks new-to-you?  And which ones are you especially enjoying?