The holiday season is truly the most wonderful time of the year. Along with celebrating the birth of our Savior, we all love the festive lighting, fellowshipping with family and friends, the shopping rush (well, not all of us like that part), and of course, the music. Have I got you in the mood yet? I know it seems early to be talking about the holidays, but I’m a Christmas music junkie, and in actuality, the first Christmas releases are right around the corner. It seems to sneak up on us every year, doesn’t it? Here’s an exclusive New Release Tuesday look at 5 of the most highly anticipated Christmas records releasing this fall:

Casting Crowns – Peace on Earth – October 7, 2008 – Beach Street Records
Casting Crowns literally defines the core of CCM for the current generation. We know their songs by heart, so it was only inevitable that a Christmas release was in the works at some point, and here it is. Tracks include “Sweet Little Jesus” and “I Heard the Bells,” a song which frontman Mark Hall says, “blew my mind” after hearing it for the first time – there’s not doubt Casting’s version will blow our minds as well. Get your fix of Peace on Earth on October 7.

Sixpence None the Richer – The Dawn of Grace – October 14, 2007 – Nettwerk
What a perfect way to make a comeback for Sixpence None the Richer – after releasing a short EP this past summer, their first full studio album upon their return is Christmas music. When Leigh Nash and Matt Slocum called it quits back in 2004, no one knew when or if we’d see them together again, but 2008 is marking a new beginning with The Dawn of Grace. A little taste of the holiday album is already available for preview on Sixpence’s official MySpace (www.myspace.com/sixpencethericher) with the song “Angels We Have Heard On High.” Sure to be a classic, so stop by stores October 14 to really get in the Christmas spirit.

Barlowgirl – Home For Christmas – September 23, 2008 – Fervent Record
The queens of Christian pop/rock are back in business a year after the release of the highly acclaimed How Can We Be Silent. Expect to hear their unique style adorned over some great Christmas favorites, including “Carol of the Bells” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” If one thing’s for sure, Barlowgirl will be a hot seller this holiday, so be sure to get out to your local music store on September 23.

pureNRG – a pureNRG Christmas – Fervent Records – September 23, 2008 – Fervent Records
The new rulers of tween/teen Christian pop (now that Jump5 has disbanded) are moving things along quickly with this year’s Christmas release, making this their third studio album within the past year and a half. This isn’t a bad thing though. Their success has warranted them this opportunity to show their fans how they are continuing to mature in their music. Expect an album packed full of pop versions of Christmas favorites, and maybe an original tune or two. Not many details are available now, but be sure to pick up a copy of A pureNRG Christmas on September 23.

Mandisa – It’s Christmas – Sparrow Records – October 14, 2008 – Sparrow Records
Fans were yearning for more after Mandisa released Christmas Joy EP last holiday season – and they’re getting just what they wanted. A powerhouse voice like Mandisa’s is sure to have listeners keeping It’s Christmas on repeat in their CD players and on their iPods. A new duet on the song “Christmas Day” with Michael W. Smith is definitely something to look forward to, as well as the entire record. You’ll be sure to regret it if you don’t get out to get in “the spirit” with Mandisa on October 14.

Perhaps those are the most hyped Christian Christmas releases this year, but definitely keep your eye out for others from the legendary Amy Grant and the always classic works of Mannheim Steamroller. Keep the Christmas spirit alive this year with this great music, and first and foremost, always remember the reason for the season. Be sure to give us a list of your top 5 most anticipated Christmas records by commenting below!