7 Christian Alternative Pop Records for fans of Childish Gambino
If you like Jesus and that Bando Stone album, you’ll probably like these records.
To be honest, this is a list of pop, R&B, and alternative but I couldn't exactly pinpoint what genre to label this list. So it's just an eclectic mix of music starring a bunch of good-looking, Jesus-loving black people who can sing (except that one group).
1. Before the Sun Goes Down — The New Respects
This record is a blissful blend of summertime pop, funk soul, and all things alternative. The New Respects have been on a solid run of radio-friendly but not commercially compromising tunes. Though they admitted in their podcast series, untitled, that a lot of their early work was mostly the product of well-intentioned directions from mentors and associates, it does not take away from the fruitful and pungent fused bops on this album. It coincides with the feel-good pop tunes found in the latter half of Childish Gambino’s discography.
2. Metamorphosis Complete — Infinity Song
This is an extended and more comprehensive version of an album that was released in the past year, titled Metamorphosis. While I initially thought that the original album was shorter but more complex and satisfying to listen to, this expanded version further enhanced the band’s sound and capabilities. Their fusion of sultry smooth rock music with compassionate lyrics and themes creates a beautiful blend of the old, modern, and futuristic. They exude a genuine and classy vibe, and it’s clear that they are all very talented. Just look at those beautiful young black individuals doing incredible things.
Am I wrong for picking this as the song? I mean it's a good song but there are other good songs that they have, but this is also the most viral so far I think.
3. If You Feel — Xavier Omar
Deviating from his tradition of R&B with a slight alternative bend, Xavier Omar leans much more fervently into his influences of having a broad R&B approach while intermixing his influences of alternative and pop music in the early parts of his career whether that be as SPZRKT, he seems to have taken that side of his experimentation and given it a much cooler and smoother approach. It almost reminds me of his Purple Panda days.
4. Pilgrim’s Road — Sondae
This is Sondae’s most ambitious work to date and, to me, feels like his first full-length record. Lending a significant portion or fraction of the production to Moflo Music, he takes on an odyssey of dystopian yet beautiful futuristic soundscapes that tell a layered narrative similar to the whole of Gambino’s discography. There’s also a cool short film he made to accompany the record.
5. From My Heart to Yours — Ron Riley
I had to take a screenshot of the album cover from another place with a white background. That's why there's a gap above this text. Get off my back about it.
Riley's latest record is inspired by Stevie Wonder and blends R&B with pop. It showcases a new side of Riley with textured, upbeat tunes, and heartfelt, encouraging songs. It's a delightful project that uplifts the listener and offers support to those looking to improve or find encouragement in their journey. He’s also masterfully jumping in and out of different genres much more overtly popping into alternative R&B music but then doing a reggae number in which he mimics the vocals of a Bob Marley or Wyclef Jean-type.
6. Here for Jesus — Nashville Life Music
This might be an unexpected choice for a list like this since it's a gospel Christian music ensemble. However, it's a vibrant and diverse collection of songs that keeps the listener engaged. It includes Marvin Gaye-esque dance tracks, smooth soulful Bee Gees-type records, '80s power anthems, and ends with a beautiful, intimate worship song to Jesus. It's a cool record with something for everyone to enjoy.
7. Hold on — Nyrik Brown
Relative newcomer on the scene, Nyrik Brown offered his first full-fledged project Hold On, which is a combination of smooth rock and shoegaze. His charming and earnest vocals present a boyish charm and zeal for his faith in Jesus. He has a smooth touch when it comes to those beautiful plucky guitar riffs. Taking inspiration from The Rock scene of the ’60s and ’70s he’s channeling a unique sound and Christian music and I hope he gets more attention which is why I’m writing about him again.
There was a joke I made on the last blog I wrote. I don't know if anybody actually read that article and therefore actually saw the joke. So, I would like to take the opportunity to make that joke here on this blog.
Are you ready? Here it goes…
… and the Lord said ‘Let he who is without sin cast the first… Bando Stone.’
