Most contemporary Christian music comes from deep in the buckle of the Bible Belt, namely Nashville. Big names among these acts include the O.C. Supertones and MxPx. But there are plenty of worthwhile groups raging just below the surface.
Dogwood provides some of the most clearly articulated rage in Christian rock.
Vocalist Josh Kemble growls aggressive lyrics under a hail of rapid-fire guitar work from Sean O'Donnell. Starflyer 59's five-song CD, Fell in Love at 22, on the other hand, sounds like the soundtrack for a solo drive into the desert. Between these two acts, there's a range of work that leaves Amy Grant and even dc Talk way behind. As the breakdown of religious faith began in the 19th century, the novel gave readers a new way to view and judge reality. The 21 critical essays in The Broken Estate explore the religious and spiritual meanings and leanings in works by writers ranging from Sir Thomas More to Toni Morrison.