Free iTunes Downloads

Phillip LaRue came to many people’s attention for the work he did with his sister several years back under the name LaRue. Now LaRue is back with his debut solo album and he’s got passion and songs to show for his absence. In “Chasing the Daylight”, LaRue wonders if his faith is like the wax wings of Icarus, not destined to last. You can rest assured that LaRue finds that this isn’t the case as the song builds to a glowing, ringing embodiment of alt-pop glory. If you like the track, check out the album.

This week we’re taking a closer look at the music of Sarah Reeves, a 19-year-old vocalist from Alabama. “Come Save” is a track from her debut, Sweet Sweet Sound, and it’s a rallying, sweetly sung song of worship that addresses faith in a very direct and powerful way but also works as a showcase for Reeves as a pop vocalist. If you like the track, check out the album.

Before taking the name VOTA, this Nebraska-based band were known as Casting Pearls. Sounding re-energized and refocused, the songs on their self-titled “debut” brim with ideas and passion. “Hard to Believe” is a glossy, alt-rock stomper of a track, finding middle ground between the Killers and Maroon 5. If you like the track, check out the album.

Joel Auge is the former frontman for the group Hewit. On his own, Auge’s mixture of worship music and emotional alt-rock rings makes a solid case for being one of the highlights of 2008. The album mixes up folk and pop with piano pop and Auge’s own transcendent vocals.

Addison Road are a Christian band from Texas who are fronted by vocalist Jenny Simmons. The group’s sound is a mixture of shiny, well-produced harmonies, touches of soul, and (at least on this week’s free single) a touch of the Fab Four’s later years. Imagine a female fronted Maroon 5 and you’ll understand the kind of energy being put together here.

For more of Lanae’ you can go to her site or her myspace page.