David Crowder Band: Illuminate

Christian music can sound very contrived, and the David Crowder Band is no exception. They're not immune to inflated choruses and strained lyrics, standard chord progressions and hallelujahs. Crowder succeeds where others fail, however, in creating elaborate sounds, layered guitar work, and instrumental breakdowns that bring you to the end of a theme and back without just taking you through the motions. Illuminate, the group's 2003 release, highlights these uncanny abilities in melodious precision in an experimental effort with ideas to spare.

This is Intoxicating, from the studio LP Illuminate by the David Crowder Band.