For Christian rock fans, the ultimate collection has come out, called 'X2004'. It features 17 of this year's top rock songs. Following up from last years 'X2003', the demand for this album has grown. It is currently in stores nationwide.

Compared to last year's release, this year will only have one disc instead of two. However, the album will be packed with 18 bands and 17 tracks. X2004 begins with Skillet's "Savior", and continues to bands such as Audio Adrenaline to Thousand Foot Krutch, from Plus One to 12 Stones. There is a large diversity in this album, which even includes a few hip-hop tracks from groups like Cross Movement and KJ-52.

For the Christian rock fan, this album is a God-send. It gets away from the pop/praise-and-worship album of WOW; rock could only be found on individual artist records. This album also recognises the growth of faith-based rock/hip-hop, and the tremendous growth in that genre through the past several years. This year's release also brings many different artists from different labels, showing greater unity in music and faith.

Out of various promotions, the album will also sponsor the Kutless "Sea of Faces Tour" through April, with specials guests Thousand Foot Krutch, FM Static, Falling Up, and Ryan Dobson. The X2004 Web site gives audio samples of the entire 17-song track list, offers an E-card to share with friends, and invites visitors to register to win an X-Box.



Chris C.
Ecumenical Press