Joe Loeffler of Chevelle is taking a break to be at home with his family. After being on the road nonstop and recording for three years, it's time for him to take a break following the major success of their single "The Clincher" off of This Type of Thinking (Could Do Us In). The Loeffler brother will be replaced by Filter's guitarist Geno Lenardo. Check out www.chevelleinc.com for more information on the band.
POSTED 8/7/2005 2:00 PM ET
Hitting mainstream has proved to be big for Relient K. Just coming off of a tour with mainstream rockers Good Charlotte and Simple Plan, appearing on MTV's "10 Spot Drop", being featured on Yahoo's Launch Music and now what? After recently performing on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, now their most recent project Mmhmm has hit Gold status for U.S. sales in excess of 500,000. In addition, keep an eye out for the "Be My Escape" video on MTV's Total Request Live this week and the band on Jimmy Kimmel Live towards the end of August. Go to www.RelientK.com for band info.
POSTED 8/7/2005 2:00 PM ET
Recently announced...GMA Music Award-winning rock band Downhere has signed an exclusive recording agreement with Centricity Records. Downhere's Marc Martel stated, "The opportunity to work with John Mays and the Centricity team is something we've been looking forward to for quite a few months now. We're due for some new material out there and Centricity really resonates with us on how to go about doing that." Jason Germain added that, "We have worked as a band to stay small in the right ways and big in the right ways. A grateful thank you to Centricity for understanding that and believing in us." Vice President of Centricity Records John Mays commented that, "Downhere is a perfect fit for us at Centricity and the types of artists we want to work with people who take their art and ministry very seriously, but don't take themselves too seriously. Not only do I respect the music they make, but I respect the lives they live. I can't wait to start on a new recording with them."
Downhere has received such honors as a 2002 Juno Award, Canadian Gospel Music Association Covenant Awards, Dove Award nomination and GMA Music Award. In addition, leader singer Marc Martel was named Best Male Vocalist by christianmusictoday.com in 2003.
Based in Seattle, Centricity Records is an independently owned recording company working to nurture the gifts and expand the influence of Christian artists. The debut on Centricity records is scheduled to be released in 2006. For further information, visit www.centricityrecords.com or www.downhere.com
POSTED 8/7/2005 2:00 PM ET
Are you a guitarist wanting to be in a band? Well, there are two bands looking for artists. Local band Jacob's Theoryas well as Ohio based band Everyday Sunday is giving you a chance to join their band. Members from both of the bands are moving on with their life and so now is your chance. Contact the bands at www.everydaysunday and www.myspace.com/jacobstheoryband for more information.
POSTED 8/7/2005 2:00 PM ET
Grammy Award-winning band Audio Adrenaline gets ready to kick off their 20+ city headling "Until My Heart Caves In" tour. This tour is in support of their ninth studio album due to be released on ForeFront Records August 30th. Joining AA for this high-energy tour are Inpop Records' Superchic[k], Sparrow Records' artist Sanctus Real, as well as, Flicker artists Pillar and Kids In The Way. The tour begins on September 23rd in Minneapolis/St. Paul and will wind up in Dodge City, KS on October 30th. You can catch them down in Peachtree City, GA for 4 Nights in October on the 8th at the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater. Audio Adrenaline's lead singer Mark Stuart comments on the new album in saying, "Until My Heart Caves In is about living for God until your body collapses; it's about never giving up. We should be worried less about the nice clothes and plastic personas and more about getting on the edge, living with authentic and real passion."
POSTED 8/7/2005 2:00 PM ET
BEC Recordings announces the signing of Minneapolis, Minnesota-based band, Mainstay. Vocalist Justin Anderson explains, "Our goal as a band is to walk in an authentic, humble way that would cause outsiders to see us as people that have been changed inside by Jesus. Hopefully our lyrics convey a sense of being honest enough to admit our faults. Our focus is to glorify God, not to please man." The band originated in 2001 when Justin and drummer Ryan Deyounge joined after their previous bands split up. Their name comes from a nautical term used to stabilize a ship. "Symbolically, this refers to the stabilizing role that God plays in a Christian's life, helping us weather the storms of life," Anderson elaborates. The band will be hitting the road this fall with Falling Up and John Reuben and is currently in the studio working on their debut album, "Well Meaning Fiction", which is due to hit shelves in early 2006. To hear Mainstay for yourself, check them out at www.mainstayrock.com or on Pure Volume and My Space.
POSTED 8/7/2005 2:00 PM ET
Congratulations are due again to Audio Adrenaline's Tyler Burkum and Skillet's John and Korey Cooper. July 25th brought the birth of little Osten Lowe Burkum arriving earlier than scheduled on July 25th and on July 27th, Xavier Timothy Cooper was born. Congratulations to both families!!
POSTED 8/7/2005 2:00 PM ET
The last of the three major Christian ska bands is now calling it quits. First Five Iron Frenzy and The O.C. Supertones, now we are losing The Insyderz. After releasing a string of albums and doing non-stop touring for many years, the band announced that their final show will be on September 24th at I'll Fight Fest in Leaonard, MI. Go to www.theinsyderz.com for more information.
POSTED 8/7/2005 2:00 PM ET
Ever played a bass drum with your shoe? Well, Falling Up's drummer Josh did. Earlier this month at Lifefest in Wisconsin, Josh's bass drum pedal broke in half in the middle of a song and he decided to finish up playing with his shoe. Now that's an interesting improvision! A lucky fan ended up taking the bass drum pedal home...will it end up on eBay????
POSTED 8/7/2005 2:00 PM ET
Attention all of you THREAD fans!!! They are back and better than ever. The band is currently working on new material and revamping old songs. Their first tour date will be later this month in North Carolina. Just keep your eyes and ears open for more information as we will be on top of this one.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Kutless recently went and played at the XM Satellite Radio headquarters, which was a milestone in their career. The studio has recently had major artists such as Coldplay and Lenny Kravitz play there and the band was honored to be in the same studio. Their performance was aired on the fourth of July. Check out www.kutless.com for more information on the band.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Tooth and Nail's Hawk Nelson will be making their debut appearance on the big screen this fall. The guys can be seen in the remake of the 1968 romantic comedy Yours, Mine, & Ours with Dennis Quaid and Renee Russo. The guys enter the movie performing "Bring 'Em Out" during a huge party scene. In addition, their song, "Things We Go Through" is also featured in the film. This movie, which is due to be released in November, follows their television debut on NBC's 'American Dreams' where the band emulated rock legends The Who singing 'My Generation'. The music of Hawk Nelson has also been recently featured on many television shows and other ads. Go to www.hawknelson.com to check out the band and look for them on tour.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Nebraska based rock band Casting Pearls has just recently been signed to InPop Records. This will be their first label debut on August 16, 2005, which follows their EP and independent releases. This will also be released with a limited edition CD/DVD. You'll find 10 new studio cuts, as well as a full-length concert taped live at the historic Rococo Theater in front of a sold-out crowd. The band is fronted by Newsboys guitarist, Bryan Olesen and can be seen opening up on tour for them later on in the year. Go to www.castingpearls.com for more information on the guys.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
The O.C. Supertones aren't finished, even though they are playing their final show this October. John Wilson, the drummer for this ska/rock band, recently confirmed a rumor on the message bored that the band has a final studio EP in the works. There isn't much information being released about this or that their final show possibly might be recorded for a future project. The EP will supposedly only be available on the final leg of the band's farewell tour this fall. Keep updated at www.supertones.com.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Another delay? The much anticipated follow-up to Switchfoot's The Beautiful Letdown, which is being called Nothing Is Sound, has been delayed once again. The new release date has been moved back from August 30th until September 13th. For all of you itching to find out what it sounds like, you can surf on over to www.switchfoot.com and listen to 'Stars'.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Disciple celebrated an impressive release week with their self-titled release on SRE Recordings recently. The band debuted at #1 on the Christian SoundScan charts selling 4,905 units. "The Wait Is Over" also reached #1 before the album even hit stores and has taken that spot numerous times since. Steve Ford, General Manager of SRE Records states, "I am very proud of Disciple. They are one of the hardest working bands around and that hard work has been rewarded with a solid fan base. Their number one success at radio and retail is just the beginning for this band and I look forward to the wild ride the next few years will be." Check them out at www.disciplerocks.com and turn those speakers up!
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Breaking out with their amazing No Name Face debut in 2000, Lifehouse is back on track. After their sophomore project Stanley Climbfall faltered, their self-titled third album shows their musical maturity and is slammed pack full of laid-back rock songs. Go to www.lifehousemusic.com or check them out on myspace for information and tour dates.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Rock and Roll for Michael W. Smith??? August 2, 2005 will bring the release of Rocketown Records Ultimate Makeover: The Songs of Michael W. Smith. This album will feature many of today's modern artists such as Tree 63,Stryper, Todd Agnew, All Star United (frontman=Ian Eskelin), Plumb and even Michael's eldest son Ryan offering their versions of MWS's hit classics.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
In the studio again recording their third album is The Elms. The band is hoping to release their album later on in the year, but do not have a title for it currently. The band has been so busy that they've had to shorten down on show time, but you can still catch them scattered about on tour. In other news, they finally released a new DVD called "Let the Cornfields Burn". Check the band out at www.theelms.net.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
August 30th will be the release date of Spoken's 6th full length album entitled Last Chance To Breathe, which is a follow-up to A Moment of Imperfect Clarity and Staple's 2nd full-length album entitled Of Truth and Reconciliation. A tour later on this year has been planned for them along with Kids in the Way and Last Tuesday, so check the guys out if you get a chance. For more information, go to www.spokenmusic.com , www.kidsintheway.com , www.staple.com , and www.lasttuesday.com .
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Highest honors were received for Building 429 at this year's BMI Christian Music Awards. The band was awarded with "song of the year" for 'Glory Defined'. Other 2005 award recepients were Pillar, John Cooper of Skillet, Michael Tait & Chad Chapin of Tait and Thousand Foot Krutch. BMI is an American performing rights organization that represents over 30,000 artists. For a complete list of winners, go to www.bmi.com .
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Award-winning Sparrow Records band, Starfiled, launched their self-titled U.S. debut last May. The band hails from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada and is one of the most awarded Canadian bands. They recently claimed their third consecutive 'Artist of the Year" at the 2005 Shai Awards, which is the equivalent to our GMA/Dove Awards. Starfield also recently received acclaim for their cover of U2's song '40', which was recorded for the GMA Music Award nominated In The Name Of Love: Artists United for Africa. The band is currently writting songs to the follow up of their critically acclaimed, self-titled debut which is scheduled to release in December. For more information on Starfield, visit www.starfieldonline.com
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Demon Hunter is preparing for their next release and recently posted on their website, "DH III" is in the works and we have over half of the album written. We are more excited about this material than ever before. We can't wait for everyone to hear it. Our third album will be a guest-vocalist free affair this time, allowing The Hunters to get the purest form of DH possible. Aaron Sprinkle will again produce, having more than delivered the goods on our self-titled debut and last year's release. We enter the studio July 18th!!" More information on Demon Hunter can be found at www.demonhunter.net .
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
Slanted Records recording artist Charity Von is participating in a year long campaign to raise money for the Ronald McDonald House of Kansas. McDonald's has selected a few artists from the Kansas/Missouri region offering free downloads to consumers and urging them to make a donation to the Ronald McDonald House. Charity is a native of Kansas City, Kansas and has offered her newly released single 'Take Me Through' It as a downloadable song for campaign participants. Check out www.charityvon.com for more information.
POSTED 7/10/2005 1:15 AM ET
The members of BDA (Better Days Ahead) have had a few intense months, but things are beginning to slow down for the band during the month of June in order to let band member Dave get married. The boys will be hitting the road again beginning in July to shows in Wisconsin, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. The band is also now on MySpace where you can join them and hear their new single "Love Is Here". More information is available at www.BDAtheband.com.
POSTED 7/3/2005 2:00 PM ET
Sad news for all of you PAX217 fans. The band has decided to call it quits and played their last major show recently at Spirit West Coast Festival in California, where the lead singer, David Tosti, made the official announcement. He stated "The vision of this band is to access the hearts of the world through our music, and although the four of us are laying 'PAX217' to rest, the vision is not dead." As the band continued their set, they paused between songs to reflect on the good times they have had as a band and how much they will miss being a part of the "Pax Family." The band has a few summer and fall dates that were previously booked and will follow through with those, so catch them if you can for one of their last shows ever. More info can be found at www.pax217.com.
POSTED 7/3/2005 2:00 PM ET
More honors for Sparrow Records band Starfield. They recently received their third consecutive Artist of the Year award at the 2005 Shai Awards, which were held in Toronto, Canada. This award, which was formerly known as the Vibe Award, is the equivalent to the United States' GMA Music/Dove Award. The band is currently working on writing songs for the follow-up to their self-titled debut, which will be released in December. Leading up to their sophomore release, Starfield will be touring with Todd Agnew this fall. Check out www.starfieldonline.com for more information on the band.
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
Radio Disney and the Disney Channel are unveiling a new collection of shows that are geared towards bringing families together as part of the Disney's "So Hot Summer" campaign and the all girl band Everlife will be a part of this. The new programming will begin on June 10th, but one lucky winner will be able to have a sneak peek. Fans can register to win by entering a code of the day on the Disney website, which can be obtained by listening to Radio Disney or by winning games of skill on the air. Everlife will deliver a new plasma TV and entertainment center to the home of the winner, as well as perform "Go Figure" for the winner and two friends. The event will be aired on Disney at the end of the summer. Contest ends on June 6th.
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
Superchic[k] will be playing all of the major festivals, including ShineFest, Creation, Freedom Fest, Thunder Fest, Spirit West Coast, Thunder Fest and more this summer. However, before the summer gets into swing, they will be playing a few shows back in the US after their recent quick overseas trip to Europe. The band would like to send out a big "THANKS!" to all of their friends in the UK who came out to the show. More information is available on the band at www.superchickonline.com.
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
The "Bro-Am" charity event, which was a surfing contest held in May to raise money for Care House, (a San Diego organization severing homeless kids) was held in Switchfoot's hometown. The bands' lead singer and guitarist John Foreman said "it has exceeded all of our expectations." Bro-Am sponsors gave homeless kids an awesome day at the beach and provided them with free shoes and clothes, surf lessons and INT foam boards, Taylor guitars and lessons, as well as a free concert from Switchfoot. "To all of the teams and sponsors, thank you for joining us in giving back to some amazing people who truly deserve our love, support and respect...The Care House kids learned how to surf and play the guitar and taught me how to dance," Foreman continued. More on this event can be found at www.switchfoot.com.
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
Subseven News! The band has been said to be one of the up and coming bands by MTV. This popular Flicker Records band has been named one of MTVU's "Freshmen", the freshest new bands and artists on the college music scene. Their video for "Free to Conquer" is being aired on MTVU, along with the rest of the Freshmen Class. The song is also still high on Radio and Records' Christian Rock chart after several months. You can also check them out on FUSE. According to their website at www.subsevenmusic.com, they will also embark on a tour with Project 86 and Spoken to begin on June 26th. Check it out if you can, it's sure to be a rockin' tour.
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
Later on this year, Flyleaf will still be releasing their full-length project on Octone Records, but a special re-release of their EP will come first. The re-release will feature two new songs called I'm So Sick and Fully Alive, as well as their video for Breathe Today. The band has many festivals lined up this summer as well as several first time concert dates in the UK. You can check the band out at www.flyleafmusic.com.
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
Way to go Relient K! They were recently won Yahoo! Music's 'Who's Next?" poll with a huge 63% of the votes. You can see an exclusive performance and interview with the band at launch.com. In other Relient K news, they covered the Bangles hit "Manic Monday" for the Punk Goes 80's compilation, which will be available on June 7th. Go to RelientK.com for more information on the band.
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
Rob Beckley of Pillar will be hosting the XXXChurch.com Charity Golf Tournament on Monday June 6th at Battle Creek Golf Club in Tulsa, OK. XXXChurch brings awareness, accountability, etc. to the church and individuals that struggle with the issues of pornography. Celebrity artists that will be participating in this event are tobyMac and members from Pillar, Disciple, Relient K and more. You can get more info at www.xxxchurch.com.
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
Blindside is in the studio finishing up their upcoming record which will be in stores on August 2nd, but is still untitled. The guys will also be releasing their first ever DVD on June 21st entitled "Ten Years Running Blind". This summer they will be touring with Showbread and The Showdown. Last week they released two of their albums with new art and bonus tracks. You can find out more on the band at www.blindsideonline.com
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
The O.C. Supertones plan on having the final show of their Farewell Tour in their home town of Orange County around October 8th. The band recently came off of a tour with Roper. They also recently played a few shows in Europe and will be headed back there in early July. In the meantime, the band is playing a few shows on the West Coast and frontman Mojo is kicking off his speaking career. Mojo plans to go into Apologetics full-time when the band finishes up. More information on the band and farewell tour can be found at www.Supertones.com
POSTED 6/6/2005 11:00 PM ET
Jive Records is picking up Day of Fire’s debut album for distribution. They will be releasing the song “Fade Away” as the single to rock radio. The band is also currently out on tour outside of the United States, so please keep the band in your prayers as they spread the message. Check out www.DayOfFire.com for more updates and keep your eyes open for their tour that might be coming to our area.
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
The multi-platinum and Billboard charting rock band Stryper has reunited and they are set to release their new album "Reborn" on August 16, 2005 on Big3 Records. This album will mark the band’s first complete studio album release in over ten years and will feature 10 original tracks and a new version of their previously released song, “In God We Trust”. Their signature heavy guitar riffs and pounding drums will still be the sound heard in their music, but with a bit more edge and more modern twist. The first single “Reborn” will be released to radio stations everywhere on June 7th. The “Reborn” name came about because they truly feel like a new band since coming back together, but with a new bass player (Tracy Ferrie). The band will be embarking on a tour as well with coming out with their first DVD later on this fall.
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
Demon Hunter is still hard at work writing material for their new album due out this fall. As of right now, they plan on being in the studio recording in July and then release the album in October. The album is still untitled. Keep your eye www.demonhunter.net for more updates.
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
Want a sneak listen at some of the new tracks off of Last Tuesday’s new album? Check out their website at www.LastTuesday.com for songs off of their new album, “Resolve”, to be released on May 24, 2005. Here you will be able to listen to songs like “You God Me”, “All These Things”, and “Have You Seen Me”.
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
Fervent Records’ girl-fronted rock band Inhabited will release their national debut, The Revolution, on July 12, 2005. The main focus of this album is confronting tough teen issues and prompting this generation to take action. Some of the topics of their album are confusion, temptation, social pressure, isolation, and search for identity. The album comes from a lot of personal struggle of lead singer Sara Acker where she expresses pain through crying lyrics that beg for truth, contentment, guidance, and divine redemption. “I want our music to go where we cannot and speak to the people we may never meet. I want to captivate even the skeptics and stimulate their thoughts, causing them to revisit their questions about God’s existence. I want these songs to reach the unloved; I want the deaf to hear, the lost to find truth, the abused to find healing, the lonely to feel comforted, and the ashamed to live again” comments Acker. Visit www.inhabitedtheband.com for a deeper look into the band.
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
Pairing their screaming sound and intense lyrical themes, Flicker Records’ Kids In The Way, Apparitions of Melody will be in stores on May 10th. Topics on the new album range from surrendering to a higher power to being falsely accused. Frontman Dave Paul Pelsue comments, “The album is a lot deeper. In many ways, it’s similar to what we’ve written before, but the lyrical content and musicianship are much stronger. We tapped into something more intense this time around.” In addition, the band is quickly gaining an online audience and has become one of the most played artists on MySpace.com For more information on Kids In The Way, check out any of the following sites; www.kidsintheway.com, www.myspace.com/kidsintheway, www.purevolume.com/kidsintheway
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
Sanctus Real has a new member. This weekend will be Steve’s last show with the band and they will be introducing their newest member, Dan Gartley. Dan has recently been on the road with Relient K and Sanctus Real is now honored to have him playing with the band. Steve and his wife Jodi felt that God was calling them to end his time with Sanctus Real. Steve will remain close to the band and is very excited to see what God has in store for him. You can find out more information on Sanctus Real at www.sanctusreal.com
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
38th Parallel is back together and working on new material! They recently posted on their MySpace.com site…”Well everyone, you will all finally get what you’ve been asking for…38th has been resurrected from the dead. That’s right; we are back together for real. We’ll be working on new demos this summer and hopefully playing a lot of shows again. So we will see how things go.” Look them up at www.38thparallelmusic.com or on myspace at www.myspace.com/38thparallel
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
Ardent Records has recently announced that they inked a deal with S/R/E Recordings, which is the new rock label under INO Records. Disciple was the first band on this label and to follow is Todd Agnew, Jonah 33 and Skillet, all with new projects soon to be out on this label. “We are delighted to begin a new chapter in our history by partnering with S/R/E, “said Ardent President John Fry. “We feel a strong bond of shared commitment to ministry, authenticity and excellence. The resources of S/R/E and the INO/Integrity system will provide exciting new opportunities for our artists while allowing us to continue to identify and nurture innovative artists and produce records with the independent spirit which has focused the attention of music fans on Memphis for decades.”
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
Seventh Day Slumber’s lead singer Joseph Rojas is part of a new book by Max Lucado entitled, It’s Not About Me Teen Edition, Live Like You Mean It. The book talks about demanding one self’s own way and just ending up feeling empty and unsatisfied. This is exactly how Joseph grew up feeling coming from a broken home and troubled past of drug abuse and attempted suicide. He finally called out to Jesus to save his life when he realized that God never forgot him. The testimony of Joseph Rojas was captured in this book in hopes of inspiring all to call out to God and call out to him. More can be found out about Seventh Day Slumber on their website www.seventhdayslumber.com
POSTED 5/7/2005 2:00 AM ET
The Afters continue to gain momentum after only a few months out with their national debut, I Wish We All Could Win. They have been selected by American Airlines with their song "Beautiful Love" for the American way magazine and "Road Warrior" promotion. This song will air during an in-flight video running from May through July and will be heard by approximately 4.2 million passengers. The music video for the same song can also be seen in more than 3,000 national retail stores such as American Eagle, Footlocker, Nordstrom and others during April and May.
POSTED 4/24/2005 1:15 AM ET
LIVIN' IT RECORDS has been formed by Stephen Baldwin (of the Baldwin brothers) and ex-Korn founder Brian "Head" Welch. "Head" is also currently working on his first solo record, which will be released on this label. Baldwin says, "We are not trying to reinvent the wheel, we are just trying to bring God and the Bible to the kids in a hard core way that they can relate to." They both believe that this type of ministry is sure to be a new and edgier way to impact the youth of today. More information can be found out at www.livinit.org.
POSTED 4/24/2005 1:15 AM ET
Christian Rock band Pillar announced an exclusive partnership with SongTouch, Inc. during a press conference that was held last week. "Bring Me Down (The Underground Mix)", one of the singles from Pillar's May 24th release Where Do We Go From Here:Limited Edition, is now available to purchase online exclusively through Songtouch.com SongTouch is the brainchild of Howard Rachinski and is the newest/most comprehensive web service dedicated to family-friendly downloads and content. Pillar vocalist Rob Beckley states, "We're excited to be part of this landmark event in Christian entertainment and look forward to our continued partnership with SongTouch.com." Check out www.pillarmusic.com or www.songtouch.com for more information.
POSTED 4/24/2005 1:15 AM ET
First week sales for Superchic[k]'s newest release, Beauty From Pain, sold over 6,500 units and reached both #6 and #1 on different Soundscan charts. They have had a very good feedback from both fans and radio on their new project and expect the positive response to continue. Check out www.SuperchickOnline.com for information on the band.
POSTED 4/21/2005 12:30 PM ET
Keep your eye open for Jeremy Camp's upcoming "Restored Tour" this fall, which will be going over 40 cities across the United States. The two confirmed opening acts are currently Bethany Dillion and Tree63. This tour will run from September 2nd through November 21st after the "Undone Tour" he's currently on with Mercy Me ends. Continue checking www.JeremyCamp.com and our website for more details.
POSTED 4/21/2005 12:30 PM ET
Here are the awards won at the 36th GMA Awards on April 13th in Nashville, TN by the artists we play...
Jeremy Camp - Male Vocalist of the Year; Rock Song for "Stay"
Building 429 - New Artist of the Year
Mutemath - Modern Rock Song of the Year for "Control"
tobyMac - Rap/Hip Hop Album for Welcome To Diverse City
Sanctus Real - Modern Rock Album of the Year for Fight The Tide
Day of Fire - Rock Album of the Year for Day of Fire
Third Day - Rock Contemporary Album of the Year for Wire
and the big winners were... Switchfoot with four awards that consisted of Artist of the Year; both Rock Contemporary Song and Short Form Video for "Dare You To Move" and Long Form Video for "Switchfoot Live in San Diego"
POSTED 4/21/2005 12:30 PM ET
It's finally here! The Pillar (Flicker Records) and Thousand Foot Krutch (Tooth & Nail) tour. It's been titled "For Those About to Rock Tour" and will also include Gotee Records rapper John Reuben and EMI CMG newcomer DIZMAS. The show will run from April 8th until May 22nd and is primarily sponsored by Trivo Wireless.
POSTED 4/9/2005 2:45 AM ET
And speaking of Pillar, Rob (their lead singer) will be hosting a charity golf tournament in Tulsa, Oklahoma on June 6th, 2005 at the Battle Creek Golf Club. This tournament is to benefit the pornography awareness organization XXXChurch.com. For more information, you can go to www.pillarmusic.com or www.xxxchurch.com to print off an entry form.
POSTED 4/9/2005 2:45 AM ET
The Billboard charting and multi-platinum legendary rock band Stryper has recently signed a multi-album deal with Big3 Records. This will be the bands first full-length studio record since 1991. There will be a major announcement coming up regarding a tour and their first DVD. In other news, the band has a new bassist...Tracy Ferrie. More information can be found at www.stryper.com.
POSTED 4/9/2005 2:45 AM ET
And here's even more Stryper news... It looks as if the 80's Christian Rock band has now been inducted into the CCM Hall of Fame. CCM is one of the leading Contemporary Christian Music Magazines. Michael Sweet from Stryper recently told CCM that... "they are all honored but yet humbled to have been chosen by CCM to be in the CCM Hall of Fame and are excited to again work with them to spread the message of Christ". Stryper appeared on the cover of CCM in December 1986 (view 86 cover) and again in August 1998 (view 98 cover). For a taste of what's to come from Stryper check out http://www.stryper.com/Reborn1Edit.mp3.
POSTED 4/9/2005 2:45 AM ET
IT'S A BOY!!! Recording artist Plumb gave birth to her newborn son, Solomon Fury Lee on March 22, 2005. In other Plumb news, her upcoming album "Chaotic Resolve" has finally been given a release date of August 2, 2005. Tiffany announced on her official website that the album was mastered and totally complete just 4 days before the birth of her son. Want to know more? Check out www.plumbinfo.com.
POSTED 4/9/2005 2:45 AM ET
To help them get further involved with youth groups across the country, Stellar Kart has partnered with Interlinc. The bands video for "Student Driver" is on the current DVD for Interlinc along with a companion Bible study based on the theme of the song. Their new album, "All Gas, No Brake" will also be included with Interlinc's March Youth Leader Only mailing that is distributed to over 8,000 leaders. Their song "Life Is Good" will also be included in another compilation that will be sent out to 4,000 churches as gifts to graduating seniors. For more information on this top 5 band, check out www.StellarKart.com.
POSTED 4/2/2005 12:45 AM ET
April Sixth's first full-length album was set to be released last Spring, but after the band was dropped from their label Elektra Records, they had to start from scratch for a contract. They already had all of the studio work, masters done, almost all of the album work completed, and the promotional singles had already been sent out across the nation to Christian Rock radio stations. However, Elektra dropped their contract and canceled their tour. Things are better for the band now though. After the disappointment from Elektra, they were picked up from Columbia Records and now anticipate a June 7th release for their album. Check out www.aprilsixthband.com to learn more.
POSTED 4/2/2005 12:45 AM ET
Spoken has been hard at work in the studio on their follow-up to "A Moment of Imperfect Clarity". According to the band, the recording process is going smoothly and the new album is set to be released sometime in August. The band is putting up daily updates and pictures of the recording process on their site at www.spokenmusic.com, so check it out. They are also getting everything together for their "Everything is Burning Tour" with Kids In The Way, Staple, and Last Tuesday. Check them out for more information.
POSTED 4/2/2005 12:45 AM ET
Blindside in the studio again! Starting next week the band will go into the studio to work on their fifth album. They will be working at home, in Sweden, with producer Lasse Marten who recorded their debut album over a decade ago. On May 10th, Blindside will also be re-releasing their first two albums, "Blindside" and "A Thought Crushed My Mind". These albums will feature original recordings and song that have never been released before, in addition to brand new packaging. A retrospective DVD of the last 10 years titled "Ten Years Running Blind" which has the best footage and photos from the last ten years and a documentary telling their story will follow later this summer. You can find out more information and upcoming tour dates at www.blindsideonline.com.
POSTED 4/2/2005 12:45 AM ET
On May 3rd in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Relient K will set out with multi-platinum mainstream bands Good Charlotte and Simple Plan for the "Noise to the World" tour. The tour will run through June 1.
Relient K is touring in support of their latest project "mmhmm", which has received rave reviews and recently named Album and Rock Album of the Year by CMCentral Music Awards. The album has receive very positive feedback from both the mainstream and Christian markets. Their first single titled "Be My Escape" is beginning to impact mainstream radio. Keep the band in your prayers because tour will be an amazing opportunity for them to make a major impact on the mainstream fans as well as the bands they will be touring with, which may never have heard the positive message of Christ.
POSTED 4/2/2005 12:45 AM ET
The high impact rock band Day of Fire will be headliner for the rock concert and ministry event named "Rock 4 Food", which will visit more than twenty cities. Essential Recording artists Olivia the Band will also be on this tour, as well as Krystal Meyers. Admission for this tour is only $5-$7 as well as the donation of a canned food item, which will be donated to a local ministry in the town of the show.
Since debuting their album in October of 2004, Day of Fire has reached #1 with their song "Cornerstone", been covered by media outlets such as GQ, 700 Club, CNN, CCM Magazine, Brio, HM Magazine and toured across the US, Europe, New Zealand and Australia. In addition, the band has recently been nominated for the following Dove Awards (GMA Music Awards): New Artist of the Year, Rock Album of the Year and Rock Recorded Song of the Year.
POSTED 4/2/2005 12:45 AM ET
The Gospel Music Association (GMA) today announced the final nominees for the Dove Award for Songwriter of the Year, to be presented at the 36th Annual GMA Music Awards. The nominees are Gerald Crabb (Crabb Family), Jonathan Foreman (Switchfoot), Brendan Graham (Selah), Mark Hall (Casting Crowns) and Rolf Loveland (Selah). The winner of the Dove Award for Songwriter of the Year will be named during the awards show on April 13 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. You can purchase tickets online at available at www.gmamusicawards.com for the event.
POSTED 4/2/2005 12:45 AM ET
It's splitsville for yet another band. On Saturday, March 19th, Mending Point played their last show together as a band after four years together. They have put up a new website to go along with their recently recorded full length CD, 'Hundreds of Collisions', which will still be released, but independently now. Check out www.mendingpoint.com for anymore information on the band.
POSTED 3/27/2005 2:15 AM ET
The guys of Subseven recently hit a patch of ice on the way to a show in North Dakota. After they slid and hit a guardrail, where their trailer tipped over, they still made it to their show after taping their trailer up with duct tape and bailing wire. Thankfully, none of the guys were hurt. Now they are looking for a new trailer to haul all of their gear. Check out www.subsevenmusic.com to learn more about the band or hear clips from their new album "Free To Conquer", which was just released last week.
POSTED 3/27/2005 2:15 AM ET
After being released for two years, Relient K's "Two Lefts Don't Make a Right...But Three Do" (Gotee) has been certified Gold by the RIAA, marking the 500,000 sales point. The album debuted at #38 on Billboard's Top 200 back in 2003, received a Grammy nomination, a Dove Award for "Modern Rock Album of the Year", and received a 4 out of 5 star review by the Alternative Press.
Relient K is very busy these days, as usual. The band is usually on the road over half of the year and just got off of the road from their headlining tour with Mae and Name Taken. For more information on the band which holds he title of "#1 ranked alternative rock band" in the CBA Marketplace, check out www.relientk.com
POSTED 3/27/2005 2:15 AM ET
Superchic[k]'s song "Pure" hit #2 on the R&R CHR chart as well as, #6 on the R&R Rock chart, and now their song "Get Up" will be featured in the new Disney movie, "The Ice Princess". The song will also be featured on the soundtrack for the movie which was recently released. They will also be part of a new Playstation 2 game called Steel Lancers Arena International when it is released on September 6th. Keep up to date on all that is happening with the band at www.superchickonline.com.
POSTED 3/19/2005 1:30 AM ET
Skillet will be featured on an upcoming VH-1 News special called, "Religion: A Pop Culture History". This was from last summer's Creation Festival and the program will air at both 11:00 AM and 11:00 PM EST on March 26, 2005 and at 6:00 PM EST on March 27, 2005. There will be future airdates, so keep checking back for more information.
POSTED 3/19/2005 1:30 AM ET
Two videos of Everyday Sunday will be in a new Lindsay Lohan movie that is currently being filmed. Supposedly there is a part in the movie that takes place at the offices of a record label and you can see the videos "Gypsy Girl" and "Comfort Zone" playing. "Comfort Zone" is their current released single and you can listen to it at www.purevolume.com/everydaysunday or check out their website www.everydaysunday.com.
POSTED 3/12/2005 2:30 AM ET
tobyMac just recently filmed a new music video for his single "Gone" in LA. This video was done in HD, which is a very exclusive and rare process and one of the first for the Christian music industry. Once again he's broken new ground at Christian radio and his latest singles "Slam" and "Atmosphere". They have taken over CHR and Rock radio. The music of tobyMac was also recently chosen for a new website sponsored by Chevy that showcases music, sports, etc. His video should be available for viewing soon. More information is available at www.tobymac.com.
POSTED 3/12/2005 2:30 AM ET
Exciting things happening for the guys of Overflow. After playing a few dates on the WinterJam Tour and having their current single "Cry On My Shoulder" continue to climb the charts, they also recently made the cover of Breakaway Magazine (a ministry of Focus on the Family) and sold out their first concert in Corpus Christi, TX this past weekend. In addition, the WinterJam concert they played at the Bi-Lo Center in Greenville with 14,000 fans was their largest concert to date. Keep your eyes on www.overflowrocks.com for some very exciting news that will be announced in the coming weeks.
POSTED 3/12/2005 2:30 AM ET
Relient K recently released their single "Be My Escape" to mainstream radio and is receiving a good response from it so far. Later on this year the band plans to go on tour with mainstream mega-bands Simple Plan and Good Charlotte. In an interview with frontman Matthew Thiessen, he notes that the band uses the double-platinum band Switchfoot as their model for success in both the Christian and mainstream markets. If you'd like to find out more information on the band, check out www.relientk.com.
POSTED 3/12/2005 2:30 AM ET
Great news in FM Static land! They are working hard on a new record which should be released sometime during the late summer or early fall. The band is very excited about working on their new project and say that they have "...a few fun little surprises up [their] sleeve for the new record." As announced on their website www.fmstatic.com, the lead singer "Trevor has been writing some fun lyrics that ...will have you crying, laughing, and everything in between. It's going to be a fun mixture of the pop rock style with maybe even an old cover song made new. Keep your eyes open for the new record, sure to be a hit.
POSTED 3/12/2005 2:30 AM ET
Over the weekend Brian Welch, formally of Korn traveled to Israel and was baptized in the Jordan River. Welch said.. "God told me to do it ... he didn't say, 'Hey Brian!,' I just got a feeling in my heart that he was going to let me know something, I was going to be told something [in Israel]," Welch said. "Because the pastor is going to dunk me in the Jordan River, and when I come back here, I'm going to be a different person."
POSTED 3/8/2005 12:30 PM ET
For the seventh time in his career, BEC Recordings' singer/songwriter and Dove Award winner Jeremy Camp has reached the No. 1 position on radio. From his current project Restored, his single "Take You Back" has grabbed the top spot on both Radio & Records magazine's AC and Christian radio charts. Also, his music video for the same single hit the top spot last week on MTV's mtvU, the video channel broadcast at colleges and universities across the country.
POSTED 3/4/2005 12:30 AM ET
After God put a dream in his heart in 1998, the lead singer of Fusebox, Billy Buchanan has started a new record label with the name of Vision 1st Music. He wants to be partnered with artists that have a passion for God and a desire to use their unique gifts to reach the world...". The artists currently on the label are Gel, Altarmotive, Tracy Jones, Megan & Mandy, and Redflecks. In addition, the founder was recently nominated for a Dove Award for his work as Kai, the High Priest in the rock opera, Hero. Visit www.vision1stmusic.com for more information on the label and artists.
POSTED 3/4/2005 12:30 AM ET
The rumored title of "Rise Up" for Disciple's upcoming June 7th release is not going to be of that name. In a recent FX Radio interview with Kevin Young, the lead singer of Disciple, he told us that their first album on INO Records will simply be titled "Disciple". He even mentioned that they thought about changing the name of the group because they didn't even sound like the group everyone has come to know. However, after PRAYER and careful consideration, they are keeping their original name. Make sure to check them out at Crossroads Community Church in Simpsonville on March 11th with Staple and At A Downfall. www.disciplerocks.com
POSTED 3/4/2005 12:30 AM ET
Congratulations to Jeremy Thiessen, drummer of Downhere. He recently became engaged to his long-time girlfriend Erin and they play on being married in May. In other news, the band recently was nominated for a "Concert of the Year" award for a show they played in Sweden for over 3,000 fans. And lastly, everything is still in the works, but the band is almost signed. Check out their videos and other information on the band at www.downhere.com
POSTED 3/4/2005 12:30 AM ET
The newest band signed to A'postrophe Records, Grand Prize, was recently selected to be on the annual music sampler distributed on college campuses across the country by Wal-Mart. Their current single "It's Not Over" from their debut album Identity (released on January 25th) has been the track selected. The band will also soon be heading out on a 30-city tour as well as other promotions. Surf on over to www.grandprizemusic.com for more info.
POSTED 3/4/2005 12:30 AM ET
BIG shake up with the non-Christian rock band Korn, according to their website, the groups founding member of the heavy metal band has left the group after becoming a Christian. A statement says that guitarist Brian Welch "has chosen Jesus Christ as his savior, and will be dedicating his musical pursuits to that end." Welch told his hometown newspaper, The Bakersfield Californian, that some of his friends think he's gone crazy or been brainwashed, but he doesn't care.
Welch said he had become disenchanted after 13 years as a Korn band member, producing heavy metal music that invoked dark and morbid images. He also told the newspaper, "It makes us look like bad people, but we're really just a bunch of kids who never had a chance to grow up." The other band members said, "they respect Brian's wishes and hopes he finds the happiness he is searching for." Korn toured with Christian band POD this past summer.
POSTED 2/28/2005 8:00 PM ET
New record label and album for hard rock band Disciple. They have just secured a mainstream deal with INO Records and will be the first hard rock band to do so. In more Disciple news....they have finally, after making us wait so long, come up with a tentative release date for their new album. "Rise Up" (rumored name) is set to be released this summer on June 7th. To keep up to date on the band, check them out at www.disciplerocks.com.
POSTED 2/25/2005 8:00 PM ET
From April 8th - May 22nd, Pillar will be headlining the "For Those About To Rock Tour" with special guests Thousand Foot Krutch, John Reuben, and Dizmas. Pillar has also begun to work on the ultimate Pillar DVD with footage filmed over the past few years. It is set to be released sometime this spring and more information will be available soon. Go to www.pillarmusic.com for more 411.
POSTED 2/25/2005 8:00 PM ET
Taking their stand on sexual purity, Fervent Records artist BarlowGirl has recently been featured in the launch of Lifeway's True Love Waits "Takes The Town" campaign. This will draw the community together and raise the standard with a message presented from churches, doctors, schools, government, and businesses. You can check out www.barlowgirl.com or www.truelovewaits.com for more information.
POSTED 2/19/2005 10:00 PM ET
On KJ-52's new album, "Behind the Musik", there was supposed to be two hidden tracks. However, that didn't happen. "For some of you who have purchased the new KJ-52 "Behind the Musik" album, you are probably wondering where the listed hidden tracks are," KJ posted last week on his official site. "Here is what happened... in the last minute course of the record being finished and mastered the 2 hidden tracks had to be cut off the CD because the album length was too long. However, the problem was the 42,000 booklets had already been printed up listing those two tracks. Reprinting them would have meant that the LP would miss its release date of Feb. 1st. We apologize for the misunderstanding. We will be posting those two tracks on the website as a free mp3 download." Those tracks and more info can be found at www.KJ52.com.
POSTED 2/19/2005 10:00 PM ET
It's a boy!!! Drummer Mark Graalman (of R&R's most played Christian Rock band of 2004, Sanctus Real) and his wife Susan announce the birth of their firstborn son on Friday, February 4th. “Well here he is!” announces the proud new dad. “Benjamin Yo-Sup Graalman! Weighing in at 8lbs. 8oz. and standing 21 inches tall! Susan and I are doing great! God is sooo good! It's Korean tradition that the grandfather gives newborns their middle name, and since Susan is Korean-American, we asked her father to choose a biblical name that he liked. He chose Yo-Sup, which is Korean for Joseph.” Want more band info?? Surf on over to www.SanctusReal.com.
POSTED 2/19/2005 10:00 PM ET
Another bandmate departure. Guitarist Steve Houser of Sky Harbor announced this week that he is leaving the band. The following message was posted in the band's official newsletter, "I just wanted to take a moment to express my thanks to Sky Harbor and the fans. Recently I have decided that it was time for me to step down as a member of Sky Harbor. The decision was just something that I felt I needed to do and felt that God was leading me in a different direction. As for my future, I plan on taking it easy for a while and seeing where God leads me. My support for the guys still continues and I wish them and everyone involved now and in the future the best." More information on the band can be found at their website, www.skyharborband.com
POSTED 2/19/2005 10:00 PM ET
Skillet is still raising money for the Tsunami victims through an organization called Music For Relief. The Red Cross is coming to some of the shows and you can give right there. Skillet is not making a single cent off of this, so, if you'd like to donate you can click here for more information.
POSTED 2/12/2005 12:00 AM ET
Newly signed band to INO Records, The Afters have just picked up a deal with mainstream label Epic Records. They will be on tour with MercyMe this Spring on the UN-DONE TOUR. Check out www.theafters.com for more information.
POSTED 2/12/2005 12:00 AM ET
Flicker Records artist Subseven has been named a MyJonesMusic feature band. Jones Soda Co. is a Seattle-based beverage maker known for its fun flavors and creative labels. Subseven is also currently on tour with Falling Up and Morning September on the "Little Green Tour" and wraps up right before their March 15th release of "Free To Conquer". For more information, check out www.myjonesmusic.com and www.subsevenmusic.com.
POSTED 2/12/2005 12:00 AM ET
Bleach? Together again??? That's right guys! Although they are not officially together as a band anymore, Bleach will play a benefit show for their friend Aaron Marrs, who was reported lost at sea recently in Alaska. The money raised from the show will go to Paperjack Film in order to continue the work on Marrs' documentary about the life of an Alaskan fishermen. If you didn't get to see their final concert at Rocketown in Nashville because it sold out, you can see them on March 13th in Nashville at the same venue. This show will also feature Relient K, John Reuben, The Evan Anthem, The Lonely Hearts and The Kick. For more 411 on Bleach, check out www.bleached.com and don't forget their final album "Farewell Old Friends" comes out next month.
POSTED 2/12/2005 12:00 AM ET
A lot has been going on in the land of Number One Gun. They are currently working on a new album and have just signed a new record deal on Tooth & Nail Records. The band hopes to have the new project out this summer. To keep up with the progress, you can check out www.numberonegun.com.
POSTED 2/12/2005 12:00 AM ET
Recently announced by Audio Adrenaline and tobyMac was "The Diverse City Worldwide" tour which also features BEC Recording artist Kutless and new labelmate Hawk Nelson. The tour will run from April 2nd through May for a 30 city tour. Mark Stuart of AudioA says, "The artists of this tour were picked as perfectly as Juan Valdez hand-selects coffee beans from the mountain sides of Columbia.” tobyMac adds, "This tour is about unity. A house divided against itself cannot stand. But when we come together and celebrate our diversity, we become a strong tower... a city on a hill." In other AudioA news, a title and release date has been settled upon for their forthcoming album. The final title is Until My Heart Caves In and the release date is June 21st. More info available at www.audioa.com.
POSTED 2/12/2005 12:00 AM ET
TFK is making us wait even longer!!! Thousand Foot Krutch's new release "The Art of Breaking" has been pushed back to June or July because they are still in the studio working on their latest project. New songs from the album will be debuted on the tour during April and May as well as during some summer festivals. In other TFK news, the album "Phenomenon" has been nominated was nominated for a Juno Award, which is equivalent to our Grammy Award. The show will air on April 3, 2005 from Winnipeg, Canada. As if that wasn't enough, Thousand Foot Krutch has also been nominated for two GMA Awards (Dove). The song "Rawkfist" was nominated for Rock Recorded Song of the Year and the album "Set It Off" has been nominated for Rock Album of the Year. In reference to these honors, the band said "It is a blessing to be recognized by our peers, humbling."
POSTED 2/12/2005 12:00 AM ET
POSTED 2/12/2005 12:00 AM ET
Inpop's recording artist Mat Kearney has recently been added to Aware/Columbia Records. According to the announcement on Aware's website, Kearney will release his debut album with the label later this year. It is still unclear whether the album will be a re-release of his "Bullet" project or all new material. A new website is being developed, so check out www.matkearney.com soon for more information.
POSTED 2/4/2005 2:00 AM ET
Project 86 is hard at work writing new material for their fifth studio album. They have set a tentative studio date around April or May and are in the final process of deciding on a producer. Check out the tour journal on their site for advancements during the writing process. In the meantime, the guys are going on a few tour dates with He is Legend on the West Coast in early March. The guys will also soon be hitting the Pacific Northwest for the first time in 3 years! More information on Project 86 is available at www.project86.com.
POSTED 2/4/2005 2:00 AM ET
It's been busy for Seventh Day Slumber lately. This past Tuesday, they came out with their new album, "Once Upon a Shattered Life" and are now on tour with Skillet. You can check out an interview on CMCentral at http://cmcentral.com/interviews/337.html or check out www.seventhdayslumber.com for more information on the guys.
POSTED 2/4/2005 2:00 AM ET
InPop records has decided to re-release Tree63's "The Answer to the Question" in an expanded edition. This album will have new, acoustic and live songs in addition to their 2001 release. They've released the song "Maker of All Things" as a follow up to "King" and the album will be available to the US Market on March 1st. For more news on the band, check out www.tree63.com and maybe head over to their new message board.
POSTED 2/4/2005 2:00 AM ET
POSTED 2/4/2005 2:00 AM ET
Disciple still hasn't finalized a release date for the new album, but you can hear a three song clip on the new webpage and it sounds like it's going to be a great album. More on the band at www.disciplerocks.com.
POSTED 2/4/2005 2:00 AM ET
Last weekend Sonny Sandoval of P.O.D. was invited to Los Angeles to contribute to the "Forever In Our Hearts" Tsunami Relief project. 100% of the royalties that the artists receive will go to help needy families. Click here for more information on this project.
For all of you "Warriors" out there...P.O.D. has started pre-production of their upcoming album. The members of P.O.D. believe it to be the most important project of their career. They are now reviewing material with producer Greg Fidelman to get ready and enter the studio with. Fidelman has worked with such names as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Audioslave, Slipknot, System of A Down, and Johnny Cash (oh Boy). They will soon have clips of the sessions on www.payableondeath.com
POSTED 1/29/2005 2:00 PM ET
Beginning next month, the emerging pop/punk band Stellar Kart will be opening up for Kutless on the "Strong Tower Tour". This will be great timing for the band since their album "All Gas, No Brake" hits the stores on February 15th, which is their first national project. All four friends Adam, Jordan, Cody and Tay grew up playing music and eventually came together to form a worship band at their church in Mt. Ridge, Arizona, which is now their full-time ministry. They have been busy performing during youth events for the past two and a half years along side such names as By The Tree, Building 429, Across The Sky, and Jeremy Camp. Check them out at www.stellarkart.com.
POSTED 1/29/2005 1:30 PM ET
Plumb is not only putting the finishing touches on her new album "Chaotic Resolve", but is planning a possible new book proposal, "Damaged". Her book is about "...true stories of women who have survived the pains of abuse", which she is still accepting stories for consideration on. And all of this is while she is awaiting the birth of her new baby. For more information, head over to www.plumbinfo.com.
POSTED 1/29/2005 1:30 PM ET
Two of the bigtime Christian acts which have crossed over into mainstream have recorded songs that are on the soundtrack for ELEKTRA, the latest action movie starring Jennifer Garner. 12 Stones has contributed "Photograph" and Switchfoot has recorded a new version of "Sooner Or Later", which was originally on their 1999 album "New Way To Be Human". Furthermore, Switchfoot's album "The Beautiful Letdown" has recently been certified as double platinum. Head over to www.switchfoot.com or www.12stones.com for information on either of these great bands.
POSTED 1/29/2005 1:30 PM ET
For all of you who have been waiting for Kids In The Way to come out with their new album, the time is not too far away. They have finally set a release date of May 10th and decided on the album name of "Apparitions of Melody" for their sophomore project. Beginning at the end of March, you will be able to order a limited signed edition of the album and they will be uploading one song a week to purevolume.com. They are currently on the Collide Tour with Skillet and Seventh Day Slumber, so check them out if you get a chance. www.kidsintheway.com.
POSTED 1/23/2005 1:00 AM ET
BLEACH NEWS: We've mentioned before that although the band is no more, they are still coming out with their final album. The band members of Bleach have recently completed recording, mixing, and mastering the project within the last couple of months for a release date of March 1st. It has been going around that this will be a "best of" type album, but Milam Byers dispels this rumor.
Have you been wondering what the guys of Bleach have been up to??? We'll, Milam is a booking agent at Alabaster Arts, Jared has been busy traveling to distant lands, Davy is still designing artwork, and Jerry is still in the audio/video line of work in Dallas. More info on the band available at www.bleached.com.
POSTED 1/23/2005 1:00 AM ET
Turning out to be on best selling lists and at the top of numerous charts, Sparrow Rock band Sanctus Real was almost not discovered at the time they were. A few years back, the four members decided to enter a classic rock station's "battle of the bands" contest at the very last minute. Beating out 75 other hopeful artists, none of the others which were Christian, Sanctus Real was named the "Most Played Rock radio artist of 2004". The guys have received numerous praise and recently appeared on CBS's The Early Show. Check them out at www.SanctusReal.com.
POSTED 1/23/2005 1:00 AM ET
The band Staple will be quite busy in the upcoming months. Two tours are in store for them...the "The Cities Will Fall" tour with Disciple and "Everything is Burning" tour with Spoken and Kids in the Way. Both of these tours are sure to rock, so check them out if you get a chance. After touring, they will be in the studio to start working on their sophomore project. There is even talk about them coming to this area with Disciple, so keep your ears listening to the show for more details. Go to www.staplemusic.com for more information.
POSTED 1/23/2005 1:00 AM ET
Yet another band baby is on the way!!!! Congrats goes out to Audio Adrenaline's drummer Ben Cissell and his wife Rhondi, they are expecting a little baby boy in about seven weeks. This will be their first baby, so please keep them in your prayers. www.audioa.com
POSTED 1/15/2005 1:00 PM ET
Check out Poor Man Riches new release "Break Me" off their recent cd project "Energy". it just dropped on the 14th of this month. Keep listening, we'll be playing it very soon right here on The FireXcape. www.poormansriches.com
POSTED 1/15/2005 1:00 PM ET
Last Tuesday has grabbed the attention of Mono vs. Stereo Records and recently signed with them. The band will be working with producers that have worked with such big names as "Relient K" and "Blink 182". Their album should be out in the late spring or early fall of this year. Check out www.lasttuesday.com for more information on the band.
POSTED 1/15/2005 1:00 PM ET
Listen up all you TFK fans!!! The band is set to come out with another album "Art of Breaking" (title not final) on May 10, 2005. The album was supposed to come out in March, but had to get pushed back for reasons unknown to us. I am sure it will be worth our wait, so keep your eyes and ears open. Check out www.thousandfootkrutch.com for more updates.
POSTED 1/15/2005 1:00 PM ET
Former bassist for the band "Earthsuit", Roy Mitchell will be touring with MuteMath this year to help them out on their concerts. www.mutemath.com
POSTED 1/15/2005 1:00 PM ET
Know how Sanctus Real got their big discovery? At the last minute a few years back they decided to enter a classic rock station's Best of Band show. Being the only Christian band, these four Christian rockers beat out 75 other hopefuls for the best band contest. Want more information on Sanctus Real? Check out www.sanctusreal.com Yet another band baby is on the way!!!! Audio Adrenaline's drummer Ben Cissell and his wife Rhondi are expecting a little baby boy in about seven weeks. This will be their first baby, so please keep them in your prayers. www.audioa.com
POSTED 1/15/2005 1:00 PM ET
2004 was a busy year for Pillar as they wrapped up their "Where Do We Go From Here" Tour right before Thanksgiving and have been getting some much deserved relaxation the past few weeks. They are planning on starting to work on new songs this month. Promises from the band are that there are big things in store for 2005, so keep looking out here and at www.pillarmusic.com.
This year is already starting to get busy for Tooth & Nail artist, Hawk Nelson. Many different tours are planned for them in addition to the band working on their sophomore project. They will be touring with such great acts as KJ-52, Sanctus Real, Falling Up, Kutless, Toby Mac, Audio Adrenaline, Seventh Day Slumber and more. Make sure to catch one of these concerts when they come around here...sure to be a rocking show. www.hawknelson.com
Recently Switchfoot has been traveling around the world and visiting areas they've never visited before, we'll be hearing a bit of a different sound on their follow up album to their Platinum-selling "The Beautiful Letdown". Lead singer and main songwriter for the band Jon Foreman stated in a recent interview that there may be "...a bit more of an Eastern feel to the songs, a little more of a darker record." The band will be heading back into the studio this month. You can get more information on Switchfoot at www.switchfoot.com.
During their busy year in 2004 and recent tour with the band Chevelle, Mute Math gained some major attention from Warner Brother Records. At the beginning of this year the band will be in production for their first full-length album. We'll keep you posted and you can check out www.mutemath.com for more information.
"Be My Escape" from Relient K's rapidly moving charting release "mmhmm" on Gotee/Capital Records has become the bands first ever number one radio hit since their debut in 2000. The album has only been out a little over a month and has already sold and impressive 120,000+ units. Rave reviews have been coming in on this album. You can check out more on Relient K on their website at www.relientk.com.
Sad news on Anberlin's homefront. Guitarist Joseph Mulligan lost his sister Tracy this past Sunday to cancer. Many of the bands tour dates were recently canceled so that Joseph could be with his sister during her final days. He states on their website, "I want to take this opportunity to say that life is so unpredictable, and far too brief to hold grudges or ignore your family. I thank God every day that my sister and I were so very close and that I had the chance to know someone so incredibly strong willed and inspiring." You can find out more information at www.anberlin.com. Let's not forget to keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Hey All Star United fans... Are you wondering where Ian Eskelin ("Taboo") came from? In 1996 he started the band All Star United. The band hasn't really officially broken up, but just taking some time apart so Ian can work on his solo project. Look 'em up sometime at www.allstarunited.com or www.ianeskelin.com.
* 3 acres of land has been acquired.
* A wall is now being built around the construction site.
* A fresh water well will soon be drilled.
* Electricity is in the works of being brought to the site.
* A used car will be purchased.
* $20,000 will be going towards construction materials.
Don't forget they are accepting tax deductible donations. Check out www.audioa.com or handsandfeetproject.org for more information on the Hands and Feet Project to help Haitian orphans.
Audio Adrenaline has a new online store. Go check it out for a chance to win an autographed Taylor guitar from Mark, Will, Ben, and Tyler. Click here for complete details.
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Tree 63 is in the studio working on their next project, "The Answer To The Question". It is set to be released on March 1, 2005. Check out www.tree63.com for more information.
Jonah 33's bassist Pete Eekhoff has decided to part the band. As one of the founding members of the band, he's decided to concentrate on starting a family and building a booking agency. Although no one has been named as the new bassist, don't worry, they will still continue rocking. In fact, they just finished laying down the drums for their new project. www.jonah33.com
The Grammy Award nominations were announced and Toby Mac's Welcome to Diverse City is up for Best Rock Gospel Album of the Year. Other nominees were Skillet, Tait and Third Day. The awards ceremony will air on CBS on Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 8:00 PM - Visit The Grammy's website for the complete list of nominations.
ChristianityToday.com’s Readers Choice awards were just released and Toby Mac's Welcome to Diverse City won for Album of the Year and Toby is 2nd for Male Vocalist, behind Jeremy Camp. Click here to view all the winners.
Bassist Daniel Ornellas, of Tree 63, and his wife Samantha have welcomed the birth of their beautiful and healthy baby girl. Luka was born around 1:00 PM in Nashville on November 30, 2004. Click here to see a picture of the little bundle of joy. Congratulations!
Tree 63's drummer, Thinus (Tain) Odendaal is now happily engaged. He proposed to his then girlfriend on November 21st and she accepted. Tain is excited and looking forward to seeing the love of his life more often (she currently lives in Canada).
Drummer, Jeremy Thiessen from the band Downhere is auctioning off his dreadlocks on eBay. Along with one of 20 dreadlocks, you will receive a personal thank-you letter and a Downhere sticker. Jeremy is using the money to make a life-changing purchase that will make a certain girl very happy. More information on this interesting auction and the future announcement of something big going on in Jeremy's life can be found at the band's website www.downhere.com
The band Subseven has announced that a few of their new tracks from "Free To Conquer", their upcoming full-length project will be available to listen to on their website very soon. The band is currently taking a break from touring for the holidays for some much needed rest and relaxation. They will be back on the road in January 2005. Check out www.subsevenmusic.com for more information on the band.
Ohio rock band Sanctus Real, whose sophomore project, Fight The Tide, was named among the best 12 albums of 2004 by ChristianMusicToday.com, will launch its second headlining tour in January 2005. Recapping the strength of Fight The Tide, ChristianMusicToday.com asks, "Why can't more modern rock bands be this good, especially in Christian music?...The band is louder, punchier, more aggressive, and more slammin' while remaining as melodic and catchy as ever." For more information, surf on over to www.sanctusreal.com.
Kutless is still in Seattle working on their new worship project and quite happy with the way it's turning out. They are also excited to support a missions outreach fundraising opportunity called Operation Philadelphia. It's called that because of the church in Revelation 3 that Jesus had nothing but kind words for. A church that represents the modern day missions church.
The first project is helping raise money for some kids in need this Christmas. Here's how you can be part of this. They are offering "vip" packages for sale on Ebay which include two passes to a concert, two free t-shirts, an autographed cd, autographed picture and a color poster. The first auction is for a show in Phoenix that is this weekend. Keep checking back with the ebay buyer called "nashvillemetro" and you'll see auctions up for their concerts in Memphis, Panama City, Lynchburg, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Here is the link for the first Auction~
Kutless is also running some great specials on their website. Free stuff, discounted merchandise, and other great specials just in time for Christmas. Stop by www.kutless.com and see what's up for grabs.
What a great lineup for The Little Green Tour this winter with headliners Falling Up (BEC Recordings). They recently had an awesome year in which the sales for their debut album Crashings sold over 50,000 copies. The tour will also feature veteran rock band, Spoken, who is set to release a new album, acoustic EP and comprehensive DVD in 2005. Also appearing on stage will be Floodgate Records artist Mourning September and Flicker Records' Subseven.
Big Dismal calls it quits... According to messages on the Big Dismal message board, lead singer Eric Durrance is stating that the Wind-Up band has called it quits. Rumors and mis-information had been flying around for some time, but Durrance has finally come out to say the following: I guess I should say something since I am the one who started this band in the first place. No one can begin to imagine what the guys and myself have been through. It has been a very slow death for this band and there are alot of people (who I won't mention) who pulled the trigger in the end. So I will tell you all (YES) Big D has ended. I myself will go ahead with my career (alone). I tried everything possible to try and hold this together but it soon would have driven me six feet under. Things will move much faster now without all the drama! www.BigDismal.com
Skillet had to recently travel some unfamiliar roads on the way to a show which forced them to drive under a low bridge, one which was too low for their tour bus. This caused their air conditioning units to crush and ripped open part of the roof on their bus. Due to this, they had to play an improv worship set and cancel a few shows. Tree63 was nice enough to let the members of Skillet rent their van for a show. Lead singer John Cooper also recently experienced a bit of trouble with his bass. He said that the events which took place caused it to be the most embarrassing moment he's had on stage. www.skillet.org
BASSIST NEEDED!!! Yet another band looking for a new member, this time it's Kids In The Way. After three years, their bassist Nathan Hughes has decided to leave the band and move on. If you or someone you know are interested in auditioning for KITW, you can contact the band at kidsintheway@hotmail.com." In January and February, the band will be on The Collide Tour with Skillet and Seventh Day Slumber. Check out www.kidsintheway.com for more info.
O.C. Supertones disband! After ten years and seven albums, the group has decided to part some time in 2005. Many reasons caused this decision and they spent lots of time in prayer regarding it to make sure it was the right one. A greatest hits release titled Unite, as well as a national tour is in the works for their last year together. Go to www.supertones.com to find out more.
Audio Adrenaline - Along with Flicker records, this Hands & Feet project founder held a charity auction on ebay. After 10 days, they raised an amazing $34,553.43 for orphans in Haiti. Plans are already underway and two cottages should be completed with the help of Habitat for Humanity by March 2005. Check out www.AudioA.com for complete details including the concert that after 121 bids went for $25,200 to a non-profit concert agency in southern Connecticut. There is also an area to donate to this worthy cause if you'd like.
Superchic[k] recently kicked off the Bold Truth Youth Tour with renowned youth speaker Josh McDowell. This is a one night, three hour conference that brings together nearly 2,000 youth and is geared towards pondering questions like "What are you searching for" and "Where are you trying to find it". Superchic[k] is also currently in the studio finishing up their 3rd album due to be released in the Spring of 2005. Check out www.superchick.net for the latest news.
Yet another online auction to raise money. Listener supported, non-commercial radio station WJTL in Lancaster, PA has turned to ebay. There are numerous autographed items such as snowboards, guitars, CD's, photographs and much more from some of your favorite artists that you can of course hear right here on the FireXcape. Here's the list.... Relient K, Sanctus Real, Skillet, Switchfoot, Kutless, Third Day, OC Supertones, Pillar, Better Days Ahead, Audio Adrenaline, Day of Fire, Superchic[k], The Benjamin Gate, 7th Day Slumber, Blindside, Tait, Jeremy Camp and Toby Mac. Go to www.ebay.com and search for the user name WJTLRADIO .
Grand Prize has just been asked to be a special guest on the "Will Play For Food Tour" along with Jonah 33, Downhere, Fusebox, and Pivetplex....You can check out www.inconcert.org for more 411. www.grandprizemusic.com
All you Five Iron Frenzy fans...Reese (the former lead singer) started a new band called "Roper". You can check them out at www.roperisdumb.com
Kutless - Lots of new news on the best selling artist of 2002 (finally). This past Monday, they went into the studio (The Compound in Seattle) to work on their first worship project. They will be working hard on this for the next two months straight and expect it to be out in March sometime. In January, they will be shooting a new video for their most recent album, "Sea of Faces" and then back into the studio in late January to work on their 4th album. This album is set to be out sometime around Christmas of 2005. AND...(drumroll please) The FIRST Kutless baby has now arrived!!! Jon Micah (lead singer), his wife, and all the members of Kutless welcome healthy little Caleb Daniel Sumrall to the world. He was born on October 20, 2004 at 2:02am and weighed in at 7lbs. 6oz. Congratulations to the new parents. www.kutless.com
Project 86 - Well, their hardcore fans got together and all of the $7,000 worth of equipment that was recently stolen has been replaced. The band asked fans to help them recoup their gear and many donations were made through PayPal. Hey! We can set up a PayPal account if you'd like to donate to us too. ha ha However, I would not buy Joe or Tommy's shoes if I were you...be wise...ok guys!!! www.project86.com
Ever Stays Red - Just got off of tour with Sanctus Real, Hawk Nelson, and Seven Places...soon to be starting up a tour with Better Days Ahead (keep an ear open...we're playing this new Essential Records band next week) and Warren Barfield. www.everstaysred.com (pretty cool website...check it out)
Pillar -"Where Do We Go From Here" scanned over 100,000 copies in just 16 weeks. It took their previous album "Fireproof" twice that time to sell this many, but went on to top 300,000 copies. www.pillarmusic.com
Day of Fire - After a drug overdose in 2000, Inked and steeled Tennessee native lead singer Joshua Brown broke up his band Full Devil Jacket and turned his life over to Christ. After a two year hiatus, he started writing again and joined fellow believer Gregg Hionis, forming Day of Fire. www.dayoffire.com
