Contemporary Album/EP of the Year
| Artist | Title | Label | |
| 1 | Tim Menzies | He Reminds Me | Grace Records |
| 2 | Katy Nichole | Jesus Changed My Life | Centricity Music |
| 3 | Kristian Stanfill | Make It Out Alive | Capitol CMG |
| 4 | Patrick Mayberry | Wild Faith | Centricity Music |
| 5 | Lucy Grimble | Between the Shadow and the Sun | Integrity Music |
Congratulations to all the artists listed.
The name Lucy Grimble is already familiar to readers of NFN, and here we have the recently-moved-to-Devon singer/songwriter/worship leader with her latest full lengther. Started during the pandemic and developed over the past three years, I am happy to say that these ten songs, lyrically grounded in the realities of life during recent world events, for me represent the pinnacle of Lucy’s output to date. “I found that pain and suffering cannot be divorced from the Christian walk, and in fact the Christian walk is so often learning how to trust God in the midst of pain.” Said to be “a thought provoking and uplifting project all at once”, it is the kind of album that as a reviewer and music lover I find only comes along once in a while. The subtle groove of ‘Ready for the dawn’ turns out to be just the beginning of a beautifully judged musical exploration of the Christian faith journey. The title track follows, reminding us of God’s presence in all circumstances (“He holds us in the shadow and the sun”). The clear message of previously released single ‘Perfect timing’ (“Your timing is perfect”) leads into the particularly lovely melody and chords of ‘Hope (again)’. ‘Spacious Place’ comes next, which becomes my standout musically because of its exceptionally beautiful arrangement. Second single ‘Shedding skin’ provides some of the ‘heaviest’ musical moments on the album. ‘But for the grace’ features the beautifully played 1780 Nicolo Gagliano violin of Grig Cuciuc. Last track ‘Now and forever’ provides a rousing ‘build’ before dropping away to solo piano to end a really lovely album. This is top quality CCM with songwriting of the highest standard, melodies and arrangements that are inventive and interesting, and all topped off by lovely recorded sound – why can’t all releases sound as good?! I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing some excellent albums in the past twelve months. With its predominance of real acoustic instruments and lovely note-perfect vocals added into the mix, this one at least equals the best and is therefore a strong contender for my album of the year. 10/10. Dave Deeks
“Between the Shadow and the Sun” reveals UK artist Lucy Grimble’s journey over the last three years from a creative, spiritual, and mental standpoint. Started during the pandemic, the new concept album unpacks trauma, doubt, unrest, and loss with unmatched honesty. Over 10 songs, she artistically tells the common human story of our world and its recent events, whilst soaking listeners in the lightness of hoping in God. The themes of darkness and light became a framework for Lucy, reflecting where she found herself and unlocking new songs in the process.“I found that pain and suffering cannot be divorced from the Christian walk,” Lucy says, “and in fact the Christian walk is so often learning how to trust God in the midst of pain.”
Never for Nothing 