By Andy Argyrakis
LONG LIVE LIFEHOUSE
Long blasting past the one hit wonder status,
Lifehouse more than proves its longevity come this fifth studio CD
Smoke & Mirrors (Geffen). The spiritually-slanted modern rockers may not break the mold, but are certainly consistent with a radio ready blend of inspirational rock undercut by front man
Jason Wade's familiar bellows. Secular star
Kevin Rudolf and faith-based "American Idol" alum
Chris Daughtry come along for the party as special guests on this album.
SINGER/SONGWRITER BLITZ
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The first of the troubadours releasing new tunes this week is the easygoing yet heartfelt
Meredith Andrews, who turns in
As Long As It Takes (Myrrh). From there,
Francesca Battistelli offers up a deluxe edition of
My Paper Heart (Word) loaded with bonus tracks, along with "American Idol" alum
Danny Gokey, who drops his debut Christian disc
My Best Days (RCA Nashville).
GROUPS GALORE
Point of Grace continues diving in the country direction with
No Changin' Us (Word), a project sure to expand the trio's crossover status. The same label also reveals the self-titled, full-length debut from alternative rockers
Satellites & Sirens, while modern worshippers are welcome to give
Pocket Full of Rocks' More Than Noise (Myrrh) a spin.
