Yes, 2012 has come and gone, but of course, the music is still with us. You've heard the major hits, you've been jamming to the breakout albums all year long. As is usual, however, there was plenty going on that you may not have (yet) caught on to. Let us take care of that for you! We've put together a little summary of some of the hottest albums that may have flown under your radar (presented in no particular order).


Marvin L. Winans — The Praise and Worship Experience
Truth be told, we didn't quite know what to expect when word got out of the release of another Marvin L. Winans solo project. Hard to imagine it had been five years since 2007's Alone But Not Alone . What MORE could he do? Well, The Praise and Worship Experience is a project packed to the hilt with guest appearances. With a wealth of artistry spread over 14 tracks, surprisingly only one of them is labeled as an actual reprise. See the full review .



John P. Kee — Life and Favor
John P Kee and New Life's Life and Favor reminds you why the Charlotte, North Carolina pastor is the undisputed Prince of Gospel. At first listen, the project is reminiscent of attending a JPK concert and standing the entire time (not realizing that you have been on your feet for 45 minutes) as he goes through his entire song catalog. Life and Favor is that. And more. Some great revelations are unearthed here. Firstly, either John P Kee and Zacardi Cortez are twins or... See the full review .



Renee Spearman — From Whoa to Wow!
Renee Spearman is a California native who has previously worked with the likes of Dr. Bobby Jones, Yolanda Adams and Byron Cage, not to mention turning heads with her previous project, the Stellar-nominated He Changed Me. With Whoa to Wow!, a uniquely titled 8-song set, Spearman sticks to her strength —distinctive songwriting melded to contemporary arrangements that nods to traditional stylings. See the full review .



Mary Mary — Go Get It
Consider Go Get It to be "Greatest Hits" of sorts from the ladies as it contains previously released material. However Erica and Tina Campbell, with their super producer Warryn Campbell have gone back into the studio to put some fresh fire on some of their greatest songs. See the full review .



Jonathan McReynolds — Life Music
Life Music is a 12 song project that touches the very core of your soul. Jonathan McReynolds gives you a mix of gospel, R+B, jazz and neo soul in his delivery, wrapping his vocals around his equally impressive See the full review .



Tamela Mann — Best Days
Tamela Mann has an on time word for the believer that their best days are still ahead of them. Throughout her career she's remained true to herself and her assignment. Get ready to experience your Best Days. See the full review .



VaShawn Mitchell — Created 4 This
Kicking off the album is "Psalms 150", written by Lehman Gray, Philip Feaster, Tiffany Joy, and Calvin Rodgers. From the first few seconds of this track, you already are immediately on the path to pure Praise and worship. See the full review .



Jason Nelson — Shifting The Atmosphere
With Shifting the Atmosphere, on Verity Records, Jason Nelson's brand of music ministry is exactly what the Gospel music world is looking for. The 12-track project features an array of tempos, sounds, and is chock full... See the full review .



Israel Houghton and New Breed — Jesus At the Center
As usual, New Breed delivers excellence in production (with both Houghton and Aaron Lindsey at the helm) and band work and arrangements. Quick and swift melodies, catchy phrases, and superb arrangements will live in your heart. See the full review .