Jesusfreakhideout.com Music News: February 2005

February, 2005

*Thursday, February 24th, 2005*

Christian artists including Michael W. Smith and Jars of Clay launched ONE in the Spirit a faith video in support of The ONE Campaign to fight global AIDS and poverty in Nashville, Tennessee. The three-minute video, featuring 16 of the biggest names in Christian music, will be featured at concerts, music festivals and places of worship across America in 2005 to rally support for The ONE Campaign – a coalition of the nation’s leading relief and advocacy organizations. “I am so proud to stand here with this powerful group of artists in support of The ONE Campaign,” Smith said at a press conference to launch the video. “The emergency of global AIDS and poverty calls out to all of our hearts. Together, ONE by ONE, we can all make a difference in the lives of the poorest of God’s children.” From concert venues to church halls to voting booths, the voices of the Christian community are stronger and more relevant than ever in America. ONE in the Spirit is a rallying call to the faith community to lend their voices to the poorest of the poor as part of The ONE Campaign. The video mobilizes Christian artists who have been engaged with DATA (Debt AIDS Trade Africa), a founding member of The ONE Campaign, since 2002 as advocates for the world’s poorest people. "From Hollywood to the heartland, Americans are joining the fight against global aids and poverty,” said Jamie Drummond, executive director of DATA. “ONE in the Spirit will play a critical role in rallying even more Americans to lend their voices.” Every day, 8,000 people die and another 13,000 contract the HIV virus, nearly 1,800 of who are children. In poor countries, there are approximately 6 million AIDS patients in need of lifesaving medicines but only 700,000 currently have access. More than a billion people – including half the population of Sub-Saharan Africa – live on less than $1 a day. “When President Bush launched the Millennium Challenge to help the world’s poorest help themselves, he declared ‘There are no second class citizens in the human race,’” said Jars of Clay lead singer Dan Haseltine. “God has charged us all with ensuring dignity for his or her neighbor. I hope all of our listeners – and all Americans – will join with The ONE Campaign to make that dignity a reality for every person on earth.” ONE in the Spirit features: Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Michael Tait, Charlie Peacock, Steve Taylor, Margaret Becker, Kirk Whalum, Natalie Grant, Jars of Clay, Andrea and Danielle Kimmey of Out of Eden, Third Day’s Mark Lee and Peter Furler of the Newsboys. (from Provident Music Group)

Yesterday, CNN reported online that Korn guitarist Brian "Head" Welch had decided to leave the band upon coming to Christ and wishing to pursue music relative to his new lifestyle. While the article is rather vague about his religion choice (beyond "finding God"), the band's official site Korn.com reports that Brian has "chosen the Lord Jesus Christ as his savior." "Welch broke the news Sunday on Bakersfield, California, station KRAB-FM," the CNN article begins. "I had it in my heart to come here and explain to you," Welch said. "I'm good friends with Korn. I love those guys, and they love me, and they're very happy for me." For the full article, visit http://www.cnn.com/2005/SHOWBIZ/Music/02/23/music.korn.reut/index.html. Please keep Welch and the rest of the guys in Korn in your prayers! (from CNN.com, Korn.com)

ZOEgirl, one of the bestselling new Christian acts to emerge in this decade, returns with their fourth studio album, Room To Breathe, available everywhere March 15. Pre-order Room To Breathe today from the JfH Music Store, and your copy will arrive autographed by ZOEgirl. The group says, "We've spent many months working on Room To Breathe and seeking God's direction on every song. It's a great combination of fun, classic ZOEgirl, worship, and deeper ministry." Pre-order autographed copies of Room To Breathe now at the JfH Music Store... (from Sparrow Records)

Christian rockers, Liberty n' Justice, have already announced three of the sixteen vocalists for their new all-star CD Soundtrack Of A Soul: Jamie Rowe (Guardian/ Adriangale), Dale Thompson (Bride) and Scott Wenzel (White Cross). We are proud to announce three more singers at this time; Ted Poley (Danger Danger), Leif Garrett (70's Teen Idol) and Russell Arcara (Surgin/Prophet/Arcara). And on Saturday February 26th we will put samples of thier songs on our new website. We are also kicking off a giveaway of an autographed Ted Poley Lovemetal CD and posting an interview we did with Leif Garrett. Come by and check out everything at www.libertynjustice.net! (from Liberty n' Justice)

*Wednesday, February 23th, 2005*

The Passion ’05 Live EP, recorded live at Passion ’05 and released January 25, became an iTunes “Top 10 Albums” best-seller last week, the first time for any project in EMI CMG Label Group history. The EP hit the iTunes album chart alongside such well-known artists as Green Day, The Killers and Kenny Chesney, as well as the soundtracks from Garden State and Phantom of The Opera. Since its release date, the EP has additionally held the number one position on the iTunes Inspirational Chart. The Passion ’05 Live EP features new songs by artist-worshippers Matt Redman, performing “Whole World In His Hands,” and Chris Tomlin, contributing “Holy Is the Lord,” which is climbing multiple radio charts and is last week’s most added single at AC radio (R&R). Also featured is the "Waking Up To The Whole Gospel” teaching by Passion Conferences founder, speaker and author, Louie Giglio. To download the Passion 05 Live EP, visit www.iTunes.com. “The overall ‘Top Ten Album’ debut on iTunes for the Passion '05 Live EP was great,” adds Rich Peluso, EMI CMG Distribution president. “To have stayed there for a week is amazing. We are excited that the folks at iTunes were so willing to work with us on creating and featuring this special project. Given the nature of the Passion events and their core audience, college students and young adults, we felt that the iTunes consumer base was the perfect group to connect with and help promote the April release of Passion: How Great Is Our God. We are confident that this added exposure will help us build consumer awareness and grow our core retail customer's sales.” The full-length recording Passion: How Great Is Our God, scheduled to release April 12, was recorded live at Passion ’05, a collegiate gathering of more than 11,000 students from all 50 states and eight foreign countries. (from Hoganson Media)

Dead Poetic has recently cycled through a couple members. Josh Shellabarger (drums) and Todd Osborn (guitar) have left the band to pursue other things (such as Josh completing college). Replacing them will be Jesse Sprinkle (of Demon Hunter and Poor Old Lu fame) on drums and Dusty Redmon (of Beloved fame) on guitar. As reported earlier this month, the band has begun writing music for their third album. You can read more about it on deadpoetic.com on the "journal" page. (thanks to Frank D. for the news)

The official release date for Starflyer59's new release Talking Voice Vs. Singing Voice is April 12th. Log on to Sf59.com right now to download a brand new song from the record entitled "Something Evil." You can also check out the new album cover on the front page. Also, The Last Laurel EP will be released on vinyl, and also Talking Voice Vs. Singing Voice will be available in 12" format following shortly after the CD release. (from Sf59.com)

Disciple has just secured a mainstream Christian label deal, "Hi all! I wanted to send out a quick e-mail to let you guys know that Disciple has been signed to INO Records and will be the FIRST rock band signed to this label," announced the band in a recent newsletter. "Those who are in Christian music might recognize INO as the same label Mercy Me is signed to. They have also targeted in on June 7th as the new cd release date. More specific details will follow very shortly." The album is also rumored to be titled Rise Up. More soon! (thanks to Brandon L. for the news)

After the last of the tracking sessions for The Rock N Roll Worship Circus's brand new The Listening full-length album, the boys took a short break, and then headed back into the studio to work with BEC Recording artists Telecast! Word on the street is that the record is due out sometime this summer/fall. This will be the band's first full-length release since their 2003 INO release A Beautiful Glow. They released the critically acclaimed The Listening EP last summer... (from worshipcircus.com)

Audio Adrenaline hit the studio last week with producer Jay Joyce. All this week they will be recording songs for their new album Until My Heart Caves In" due to hit store shelves early this summer. For video and audio of the band discussing new songs and recording, visit http://www.audioa.com/news.aspx?iid=341625&cid=227. Also, visit their "moBlog" for images of the guys hard at work! (from AudioA.com)

Becoming The Archetype has just signed to the Solid State roster. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, this brutal quintet brings forth metal mayhem the way it was meant to sound... like a ton of bricks. If you like your metal in the vein of Living Sacrifice, Unearth or Zao, you'll love BTA's technical, precise and driving approach. Check them out on tour now with Showbread, Mortal Treason & The Showdown! (from Solid State)

The highly anticipated Absolute Worship Tour began its musical ministry last week in Texas and will continue touring 20 cities through late March. Todd Agnew and Big Daddy Weave are co-headlining the tour along with featured special guest Exit East. The tour is in conjunction with the album release of Absolute Modern Worship on Fervent Records. Absolute Modern Worship, the fourth release in the Absolute series, features “You’re Worthy Of My Praise” by Big Daddy Weave and BarlowGirl. The song has quickly become the fastest rising single in Fervent’s history already reaching #12 at AC and #15 at AC Indicator, according to R&R, only one month after add date. The Absolute series has continued to impact radio and the marketplace selling over 300,000 units in 11 months. In support of this project and its featured artists, Fervent Records and WorldVision have partnered in co-sponsoring The Absolute Worship Tour booked through GOA, Inc. “We're excited, first of all, to be included on the compilation project Absolute Modern Worship which provided us the opportunity to work with BarlowGirl, and we are now even more excited to be apart of the Absolute Worship Tour,” says Mike Weaver of Big Daddy Weave. “This tour is unique to others that we've done in the past. It is different because we're not out there to play the singles that everyone would recognize necessarily. This tour is all about truly worshipping our God. It's good to join forces with others like Todd Agnew and Exit East that have kindred hearts toward promoting someone so much bigger than we are.” (from Bozeman Media)

*Friday, February 18th, 2005*

Worship Leader Magazine has awarded Gotee recording artist Sarah Kelly the "2004 Breakthrough Artist" honor for their 4th Annual Praise Awards. The awards recognize outstanding achievement in six key areas with the winners being selected by popular vote at www.worshipleader.com or www.songdiscovery.com. Fellow nominees in the "Breakthrough Artist" category included Planetshakers, Robbie Seay Band, and Jason Morant. "Sarah Kelly is an artist that truly has broken through the normal boundaries of a worship leader," commented Worship Leader Magazine's Trish Carlson. "Her worshiping heart and presence on stage as she leads others in worship is addicting and rocks you to the core. Never before have I heard such raw and authentic passion, as if Sarah is singing out for those who can't." With Kelly's recent GRAMMY nomination for "Best Rock Gospel Album," 2005 has already proven to be a year of high visibility for her. Last week she presented the "Third Coast Agent Of The Year" award to winner John Huie of CAA at the 16th Annual Pollstar Concert Industry Awards, and was simultaneously nominated for a Dove Award for her participation in special album event In The Name Of Love- Artists United For Africa. (from LB PR)

The Supertones are beginning their farewell tour this Spring with Roper but are planning to to do a full tour to celebrate their final year as a band in the Fall. Roper will be out with the O.C. band for 10 dates in the spring as well. In between the dates with the Tones, Roper will be touring with a new band called Edison Glass who just got signed to Sparrow records. (from Roper)

Centricity Records’ renowned rock group Circleslide was recently named the No. 1 Contemporary Christian Band at the Music Resource Group’s 4th annual Independent Music Awards (MRG, IMA). Focused on developing new markets for independent artists and labels, the MRG bestowed the honor based solely on artistic merit, as judged by a panel of established artists and industry professionals. In addition to being featured in the 2005 edition of Musicians Atlas, MRG’s annual directory connecting all areas of music business, Circleslide’s “Home” will be included on a Summer CD compilation of winners from each category. The “IMA Winners CD” will be distributed to music journalists, commercial and public radio stations and industry insiders. Boston-based promotion company, The Planetary Group, will service the IMA Winners CD to college radio stations throughout North America. Circleslide will additionally receive increased exposure as the IMA Winners CD will be distributed by three-time IMA co-sponsor, Borders Books & Music. This spring, the retailer will enhance its IMA efforts by promoting the IMA compilation and sponsoring a variety of in-store events in the chain’s top-ranked music sales markets. IMA winning artist albums will also be available in stores and on the BordersStores.com site. Circleslide is currently in the studio completing its national debut, Uncommon Days, releasing later this spring. The album will further highlight “Home” and three more songs from its acclaimed EP release, Connectology, which garnered interest from several labels before the band signed with independent label, Centricity. (from Hoganson Media)

Rocketown Records recently announced the signing of Minneapolis-based singer/songwriter Michael Olson as the newest artist on the nine-year-old label’s roster. His debut CD, Long Arm of Love, releases May 17, and first single “I Believe in Jesus” goes for adds at AC and Inspirational formats on March 11. A worship leader for the college-age group in his home church, Olson is also known throughout Minneapolis as a rising producer and more than capable player on a variety of instruments, including guitar, piano and drums. In addition to writing and recording his own music, Olson has also toured with Sara Groves. Artist/producer Scott Dente, now of Runway Network, first introduced Olson’s music to the Rocketown staff after he played on Olson’s independent CD, which was produced by Nate Sabin (Sara Groves). Struck by the direct and authentic nature of his songs, Rocketown brought Olson to Nashville to get to know him and his music better. In December, Olson joined with the Rocketown roster on the Gloria Christmas tour, in which he served as the opening act and a featured vocalist throughout the night. Rocketown Records’ President Don Donahue said, “Michael Olson is a great singer, a better songwriter and an incredible artist. We are looking forward to Michael being able to showcase his music to our market this spring. After first being drawn to him because of his voice, we quickly noticed the accessibility of his songs. Meeting and experiencing what he does live was the icing on the cake. Michael Olson's future is very bright, and it starts with The Long Arm of Love on May 17.” Michael Olson said, “The highest purpose for the music I create is for others to be brought closer to Jesus. I believe there are a lot of people in the world who have a misunderstanding about the way God feels about them. I want to live my life in such a way that I can easily hear from Him and use the giftings that He’s given me to lead others into the truth of who He is. That would define success for me. “I’m excited to be a part of the Rocketown family because it feels just like that. Family. I’ve never been more amazed at how God grants the desires of our hearts when we align ourselves with Him. The way that my relationship originated with Rocketown was very natural. It just felt right. And I feel like the Rocketown team is committed to me as an artist. They are very passionate about what they do, and I’m honored to be on their roster.” (from Rocketown Records)

J-REMY is currently in the studio putting the final touches on his soon to be released sophomore project. Although the recording has yet to receive a title, the project will feature all brand-new songs including an R&B ballad with Kevin Max (of DC Talk) entitled "Remedy." The album was produced by Kene "Ghost" Bell (Grits, The Katinas, Toby Mac) in Nashville; Mark Hewitt (Mystikal, Juvenile, Fats Domino) in New Orleans and Douglas Grean (Velvet Revolver, Mandy Moore, Sheryl Crow) in Los Angeles, CA. For more info please visit J-REMY online at www.whoisjremy.com or www.myspace.com/jremy. (from JDJ Management Group)

*Thursday, February 17th, 2005*

Fervent Records artist, BarlowGirl, was featured last Friday in the official national launch of Lifeway’s True Love Waits “Takes The Town” campaign. BarlowGirl has long been an advocate of sexual abstinence and has been a spokesperson to their legion of teenage fans on this topic. The new “Takes The Town” campaign will involve drawing a community together to raise the banner of sexual purity and to present students with a united message from churches, businesses, doctors, schools, and the government. BarlowGirl did an acoustic performance for the launch at Lifeway’s chapel service and then took part in a panel that served as a press conference at www.truelovewaits.com. BarlowGirl’s involvement serves as a voice from the Christian music industry and from the youth generation that supports purity until marriage. Also joining them in this event was Mike and Christin Bumstead, who are a recently married couple who had committed to purity. Mike is a San Diego Padres player and the couple was recently featured on the Knot Oxygen cable show. BarlowGirl (Becca, Alyssa, Lauren) has promoted modest dressing for teenage girls and to keep social activities with an uneven number of guys and girls to help maintain a commitment to abstinence. They have based their stance and have found their firm security in Romans 12:2. Do not conform, be transformed. Alyssa Barlow states, “We look at our culture that tells us what to wear, what to watch, what to think – which can be a really a dangerous lifestyle. This only leads to heartache, and many of our problems are related to this striving to conform. We say in our songs to be different- that there is a reason God made us different and why we have different paths to walk out.” (from Bozeman Media)

Strange Occurrence has announced their breakup. "This time the rumors are true. StrOcc has bisbanded," Joe Wiles posted on the band's message board yesterday. "Of course, this is the music business so you can never be too sure. If you have a spare $11,000, we'll happily reband for one last night to rock the house, or to do your dishes... whatever. We've shared some memorable moments with our appreciators and we sincerely thank all of you for your support throughout the years. We'd love to specifically thank some of you for your undying fan-ship and friendship, but there are too many to mention and we fear that we will forget someone." For details on what the members are up to, visit the thread here. (from sorocks.com)

P.O.D. has updated their official website, www.payableondeath.com, with a brand new behind-the-scenes video. The video opens with highlights from the production and promotion of their 2003 record Payable On Death set to an impressive remix of "Will You." Before the video closes, the remix opens into a brand new guitar-driven song that is sure to excite dedicated fans of the San Diego rock quartet. Visit the site now for the clip! (from PayableOnDeath.com)

Norma Jean and Hot Topic are giving way 12 custom ESP guitars painted by Norma Jean. Each guitar is named after one of the songs from the upcoming album, O' God, The Aftermath. Enter to win here and then get ready for March 1st when O' God, The Aftermath hits stores everywhere! (from Solid State)

The Creation Festival has announced the official line-up for the 27th Annual East and West Events. The largest outdoor Christian music and teaching festival of its kind, Creation continues the tradition of featuring the hottest acts in Christian music, as well as highlighting up-and-coming artists and introducing young audiences to some of the foundational artists who have made Christian music what it is today. Creation East will be held June 29th – July 2nd at the Agape Farm in the beautiful mountain ranges of Mount Union, PA. Celebrating its 8th year, Creation West will be held at the amazing Gorge Amphitheater in George, WA July 27th –30th. This year’s main stage line-up includes Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Audio Adrenaline, Newsboys, Relient K, Casting Crowns, Jeremy Camp, Kutless, Phil Keaggy and popular mainstream artists Switchfoot and MercyMe, along with many other nationally known favorites. “The Fringe” side stage will feature the best of the up-and-coming alternative Christian artists, including Cool Hand Luke, Thousand Foot Krutch, John Reuben, Tree 63, Roper, Disciple, Number One Gun, FM Static and KJ-52, among others. The Festival will also present many new artists who are on the rise, including MuteMath, Hawk Nelson, Bethany Dillon and M.O.C. For more information about Creation East and West, to view the complete program, or for information on purchasing tickets to the event or becoming involved as a volunteer staff member, please visit www.creationfest.com and choose the link to the Festival you would like to attend. (from SPRINGBOARD)

Haste the Day is currently in the studio with GGGarth Richardson (Beloved, Atreyu, Rage Against The Machine) for 6 weeks. Benny Kaplan will be assisting GGGarth while Dean Maher will be engineering and mixing along with Josh Wilbur. Look for the follow up to 2003's Burning Bridges to be released this summer! (from Solid State)

Dead Poetic is gearing up for their follow-up to New Medicines already! "We are currently writing material for our third studio album. We are more excited about writing now than we have ever been. Get ready for a great record." More to come! (from DeadPoetic.com)

*Tuesday, February 15th, 2005*

Sparrow Records’ artist Steven Curtis Chapman was awarded a GRAMMY Award for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album for his latest release, All Things New, at Sunday night’s show held live in Los Angeles. The 47th Annual Awards were broadcast nationwide on CBS. Steven Curtis Chapman has previously won four consecutive GRAMMY Awards for Best Pop/ Contemporary Gospel Album (for Speechless, For The Sake of the Call, The Great Adventure and The Live Adventure). Selling over nine million records in his career, his GRAMMY-winning project, Speechless has been RIAA-certified Platinum, while For The Sake of the Call and The Great Adventure are RIAA-certified Gold. Thrilled by tonight’s win, Chapman comments, “This seemed uniquely special tonight of the theme of the album. I’ve been fortunate to have won four past Grammy awards, but it’s been a few years and albums since. Having taken some new turns with this current project, it feels like a new beginning and is truly ‘all things new.’ This was a truly great night.” The recording industry's most prestigious award, the GRAMMY, is presented annually by the Recording Academy, NARAS (National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences). A GRAMMY is awarded by the Recording Academy's voting membership to honor excellence in the recording arts and sciences. It is a peer honor, awarded by and to artists and technical professionals for artistic or technical achievement, not sales or chart positions. The annual GRAMMY Awards presentation brings together thousands of creative and technical professionals in the recording industry from all over the world. (from The M Collective)

Sky Harbor announced this week the departure of guitarist Steve Houser. Steve posted the following message in the band's official newsletter, "Hey Guys, 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 last few years have been nonetheless amazing! Experiences that I will hold onto forever. All of you that came to shows, hung out after shows, stayed in contact you guys are awesome and made me feel blessed every show. 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 see where God leads me. Have even contemplated taking up teaching if you guys can believe that! haha. Well thank you again for welcoming me and the guys into your churches, homes, clubs, schools, and everywhere else! My support for the guys still continues and I wish them and everyone involved now and in the future the best. Please feel free to contact me at Steve_Houser@hotmail.com Thanks again, Steve" We wish Steve and the band the best! (from Sky Harbor; special thanks to Carolyn)

EMI CMG Distribution, a division of EMI CMG and the market leader in the distribution of Christian audio and video music recordings, has signed a long-term retail distribution agreement with family-friendly entertainment software maker Digital Praise, Inc., announced Rich Peluso, president of EMI CMG Distribution, and Tom Bean, President and CEO, Digital Praise. The new agreement includes the Christian retail distribution launch for all new and future Digital Praise products. The first releases are two interactive computer games based on the Focus on the Family Adventures in Odyssey radio theater series. The titles, Adventures in Odyssey and the Sword of the Spirit and Adventures in Odyssey and the Treasure of the Incas feature well-known “Odyssey” characters, Whit, Connie, and Eugene in new adventures and mystery series created specifically for the medium of computer games. The games are designed for children ages eight and up and are available for the Windows and Macintosh platforms. “EMI CMG Distribution has demonstrated a commitment to and belief in the kid’s software market, and believe Digital Praise will be an important partner as we continue to make kids software and games a strategic priority for EMI CMG. While Digital Praise is a relatively new company, the team of software and gaming professionals is a virtual who’s who in their fields. We are honored that they have entrusted us to distribute their products,” said Peluso. (from Spinhouse PR)

*Monday, February 14th, 2005*

The winners for the 47th Annual GRAMMY Awards are in! Congratulations to Third Day for nabbing the Best Rock Gospel Album GRAMMY for their record Wire! Congrats also to Steven Curtis Chapman for taking home the GRAMMY Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album for his album All Things New! For the full list of winners, visit Grammy.com. (from Grammy.com)

*Friday, February 11th, 2005*

ComingSoon.net reported this week that Mel Gibson has made a new cut of The Passion of The Christ! The director has trimmed five to six minutes of violent scenes, reports Variety. The new version, The Passion Recut, will go out on 500-750 screens by Newmarket Films beginning March 11. The new cut will be unrated, adds the trade. Gibson showed a preliminary version of this version to the ratings board. When it became clear he would still receive an R rating, which his original film bore, Gibson decided that would defeat his purpose. While the original film grossed $370.2 million on an initial theatrical run that began Ash Wednesday last year, Gibson cut a less-violent version of his film in response to an audience segment that skipped the film because of the depiction of onscreen carnage as Jesus Christ was tortured by Roman troops prior to being crucified. "There are no new scenes, and the cuts are limited to the more violent aspects of the film, if that's the right term," said Bruce Davey, Gibson's partner in Icon Productions. "The scourging scene in particular has been substantially adjusted." The film will be released in most major markets across the country. It is expected to run through Easter weekend, and Davey said that this might become a perennial release. (from ComingSoon.net)

Some of today’s most popular gospel music artists will pay tribute to the newest members of the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame at a television taping on Tuesday, February 22. The show, to be held at Trinity Music City in Hendersonville at 7:30 p.m. CT, is open to the public and admission is free. (Doors open at 7:00 p.m.) The GMA Foundation (GMAF) will induct Walter Hawkins, Mylon Le Fevre, Evie Tornquist, The Lewis Family, Ron Huff, Don Light and Lou Hildreth into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame awards show will feauture performances by inductees Hawkins, Le Fevre and Tornquist as well as The Newsboys, Tramaine Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, The Williams Brothers, The Isaacs, Rebecca St. James and Larry Dalton. Also scheduled to appear are Amy Grant, CeCe Winans, Bill Gaither, Tony Brown, The Oak Ridge Boys and Marty Raybon. Comedienne Chonda Pierce will host the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame ceremonies. The GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame was established in 1971 and has inducted 125 members since its inception, including Elvis Presley, Mahalia Jackson, Amy Grant, the Blind Boys of Alabama, Andrae Crouch, Tennessee Ernie Ford, The Oak Ridge Boys, Petra, Bill and Gloria Gaither, the Rambos, Thomas A. Dorsey, the Fairfield Four, Billy Graham and the Jordanaires. More information about the inductees can be found at www.gospelmusic.org. (from Spinhouse)

Ginny Owens has been placing the finishing touches on a couple of new projects. Her new live album, Live from New Orleans, hits stores May 3, and her DVD from the same performance will be available soon at her live shows. She's also busy at work writing songs for her scheduled October 2005 studio release! More on that soon... (from Rocketown Records)

Are you KJ-52 fans who were looking for the hidden tracks on his new album Behind The Musik as perplexed as we were to their whereabouts? "For some of you who have purchased the new kj-52 Behind the Musik, you are probably wondering where the listed hidden trax are," KJ posted last week on his official site. "Here is what has happened... in the last minute course of the record being finished and mastered the 2 hidden trax ("Plain White Rapper in a Mini Van" and "Piece of Junk Car") had to be cut off the CD because the album length was too long (i.e. more than 74 minutes), however, the problem was the 42,000 booklets had already been printed up listing those two trax. Reprinting them would have meant that the LP would missed it's release date of Feb. 1st. VERY CONFUSING, WE KNOW!! We apologize for the misunderstanding. We will be posting those two trax up on kj52.com and/or behindthemusik.com as a free mp3 download shortly! Again, we apologize for the misunderstanding and are working to correct the problem immediately." (from kj52.com)

The fourth annual C.A.T.S., INSP's Christian Artist Talent Search, opens Feb. 14 for interested contestants to enter. A television series on INSP-The Inspiration Network and syndicated stations will follow the 64 finalists in competition. The grand prize winner will receive a national recording contract from Point of Grace Entertainment record label. The Christian music talent search is open for sign-up until April 18. The talent search is for singers, whether solo, duo or group. Styles may be gospel, contemporary, southern gospel, praise and worship, or other Christian genres. "We have found great talent to showcase and found an enthusiastic audience in our prior years with C.A.T.S.," said Ron Shuping, Senior Vice President of Programming, The Inspiration Networks. "This talent, combined with the excitement of the competition building to the finals, makes for exciting television viewing as well as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all of the artists." To enter, all artists must send a CD or audio cassette with two Christian songs, two copies of a recent photo and two copies of their biography. All entrants must be 15 years of age or older by April 18th, 2005. Contestants may sign up for the 2004/2005 C.A.T.S. competition at www.insp.com. Rules are posted on the web site also. More information is available by calling 704- 561-7955. (from INSP)

Shaun Groves is preparing for his upcoming third album, White Flag, releasing July 12. Inspired by his ongoing role as a pastor of a college group at his church, Shaun's new CD reflects on the message of the Sermon on the Mount. (from Rocketown Records)

Taylor Sorensen is currently taking the Spring to write and do dates with his band, The Free Doves, after spending Fall 2004 touring the UK with Delirious and The Rock N Roll Worship Circus followed by a month of dates with Sleeping at Last and Cool Hand Luke. Taylor welcomed his first Dove nomination this year (Modern Rock Album) for his debut CD, The Overflow. (from Rocketown Records)

As Christians, what is our response to the world when tragedy, like the December 26th tsunami that killed over 150,000 people, strikes? It's easy to praise God when things in our lives are going well, but what about the other times? What happens when mountaintop experiences cascade into seasons of struggling in the valley? The question: how could a perfectly good and all-powerful God allow suffering has never been timelier. Many of us don't feel right expressing our anger, frustration, and sadness in prayer. Why is it that Christians have not had an understanding of the role and the importance of mourning? In A Sacred Sorrow, releasing February 13th, 2005 from NavPress, author, musician, and teacher Michael Card, shows us that lament is enshrined in God's word. From Job to David to Christ, men and women of the Bible understood that God desires for us to pour out our hearts to Him, in joy and in pain. A Sacred Sorrow gives Christians permission to grieve and shows them that the offering of our sorrow can actually be an act of worship. For more information, visit Card's website at www.MichaelCard.com (from Michael Card Music)

On March 8, Sony BMG Strategic Marketing will release Ultimate Worship: The Passion Collection, a two-CD set of twenty-five tracks performed by internationally renowned worship leader Joel Engle. This release follows in the footsteps of 2003's highly successful Ultimate Worship Collection. One of Modern Worship's leading stars, Engle plays to hundreds of thousands of people each year; he also publishes the largest Modern Worship “direct-to-church” subscription program in the world. Engle performs the songs, with special guests who are amongst the most popular voices in Modern Worship, the hottest format in Christian music -- and the fastest growing genre in popular music today. Ultimate Worship The Passion Collection mixes classics such as: "At The Cross," "Lord I Lift Your Name On High," "Nothing But The Blood," "Oh Praise Him" and "The Happy Song" with many of the newest, most popular songs both on the charts and in churches nationwide including "My Glorious," "In Christ Alone," "Prince Of Peace," "Wonderful Cross," "Your Love Is Deep,” and “Beautiful One.” (from LB PR)

*Thursday, February 10th, 2005*

Sanctus Real has added another milestone to its list of achievements: drummer Mark Graalman and his wife Susan announce the birth of their firstborn son, Friday, February 4, at 3:15 p.m. Toledo, OH-time (EST)! “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,” adds Mark. “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.” Susan’s parents reside in South Korea. (from Hoganson Media)

Pillar will then headline the "For Those About To Rock Tour" April 8- May 22 with special guests Thousand Foot Krutch, John Reuben, and Dizmas. "The plan is to write as much as possible during February and get a good head start on the next album," announced the band in a newsletter this week. "So you know, the earliest we are able to hit the studio to record the next album won't be until Winter 2005. Pillar will hit the road again in full force starting in early March. We have two back-to-back tours scheduled. Hopefully we will see many of you at these shows. Lastly, I want to let you all know that we have begun work on the ultimate Pillar DVD. Most of the footage has been filmed by Rob or a friend of the band over the last few years. Rob will be flying to Nashville this week to discuss the content of the new DVD with our record label. It will be released this late spring sometime. We will reveal more information about this project in the coming months. Check out our journal on www.pillarmusic.com to see what crazy things we are up to out on the road." (from Pillar)

We reported last month on the mainstream signing of Mat Kearney. Here's the label's official word... Inpop Records artist Mat Kearney recently inked a general-market partnership with Aware/Columbia Records, home to multi-platinum singer/songwriter John Mayer, Grammy-winning rock band Train, and alternative pop outfit Five for Fighting, among others. Kearney released his Inpop Records debut, Bullet, last October to critical acclaim. Aware/Columbia Records will handle all general-market promotions and marketing, including consumer publicity, radio promotion and distribution. Inpop Records will continue to market and distribute Kearney’s release Bullet to the CBA market. Kearney has also signed on with Creative Artist Agency, which represents artists working in film, television, music and more. “The second I heard Mat’s music, I knew I had to sign him and help expose him to a massive audience,” said Aware Records Founder/President Gregg Latterman. “Everyone here at Aware/Columbia is extremely excited for rest of the world to hear Mat’s music,” he said. “We’re excited about teaming up with Aware/Columbia and what that means for Mat,” said Inpop Senior Vice President/General Manager Rob Poznanski. “We’ve watched what Aware/Columbia has successfully done with other projects, and we feel this partnership is the beginning of a great future with them.” Kearney sprung onto the music scene in October 2004 with “Undeniable,” the first single from Bullet. The song broke the record for the largest number of out-of-the-box adds for a radio single on Radio and Records’ Christian CHR chart. Bullet, co-produced by Robert Mavin and Kearney, features a unique blend of acoustic guitar, thoughtful lyrics and driving rhythms. The 11 songs comprising the album were all co-written by the duo. Kearney joined label mates Shane & Shane for a successful fall tour last year. “I’m honored to be a part of the Aware/Columbia community,” said Kearney. “I’ve watched Aware Records for some time now, and I have a huge respect for the music this company has ushered into the marketplace. The staff at Aware/Columbia really stood out because they showed such initial belief in me and shared a similar vision for my music and where I hope to take it.” Currently, Kearney is in the studio working on new material. Beginning February 14, he will join alternative rockers Graham Colton Band for a seven-city run, and this spring Kearney will co-headline a tour with Warner Bros/Teleprompt artist MuteMath. (from InPop)

*Wednesday, February 9th, 2005*

Switchfoot's The Beautiful Letdown DualDisc hit store shelves yesterday. The DualDisc features the original stereo mix of the entire The Beautiful Letdown album on the CD side. On the DVD side, you'll get a 5.1 Multichannel Surround-Sound mix of the album, with features like the making of "Dare You To Move" video with two versions of the video, also featuring an acoustic version of "On Fire" and two audio-only bonus tracks: "Monday Comes Around" and "Meant To Live". The DualDisc plays on existing CD and DVD devices such as DVD players, car stereos, PCs, game consoles and CD players! (from Switchfoot)

INO Records and eb+flo Records' have recently announced their partnership to release Chris Rice's next project. Rice will begin recording for the project next month in Nashville for a projected August release. eb+flo records consists of partners Ken Lewis, Monroe Jones and Chris Rice. "We are huge fans of what INO has done to redefine the music industry," comments Lewis, "and believe that partnering with them to do this Chris Rice project is going to be a strong and beneficial relationship." "Chris has a strong vision, and a sense for how he wants to grow in his artistry," adds Jones, "and as we met with potential partners for Chris and eb+flo, it became very clear that Jeff Moseley and INO not only understood that vision, but were excited and more than capable of helping us carry it out. It's just a great fit." "We are enamored by Chris' artistry and are excited to partner with eb+flo to further an already succesful career," commented INO president, Jeff Moseley. (from The M Collective)

“Blessed Be Your Name,” the first single from Tree63’s February 2004 release, The Answer To The Question, has been named Billboard Magazine’s No. 1 Adult Contemporary Christian radio single for 2004. “Blessed Be Your Name,” penned by Matt and Beth Redman, has been nominated for the prestigious “Song of the Year” and “Worship Song” awards from the Gospel Music Association. The winning songs will be announced at the 36th Annual Dove Awards in Nashville on April 13. “Blessed Be Your Name” quickly climbed the charts after its release in early 2004 and has remained a staple of radio playlists across the country. Consumer response to The Answer To The Question has been overwhelming, resulting in the shipment of over 100,000 units to retail. The third single from the project, “Maker Of All Things,” recently released to radio in advance of a special retail re-release of The Answer To The Question Expanded Edition on March 1. The expanded edition will include “Maker Of All Things,” which was previously unavailable, along with the new song “Paradise” and several exclusive acoustic cuts. The re-release will also contain enhanced content, including the video and chord charts for the song “King.” The Answer To The Question Expanded Edition displays Tree63’s trademark anthemic, guitar-driven sound coupled with intimate, worshipful lyrics. Produced by the team of Jason Burkum and Nathan Dantzler (Audio Adrenaline) along with Tree63 frontman and founder John Ellis, the project features Ellis as songwriter on all but two tracks. Tree63 will also hit the studio soon to record the follow up to The Answer To The Question, slated for release this fall. (from InPop)

Catch Lifehouse performing “You and Me” on Live with Regis and Kelly on ABC. This will be part of the “Wedding Week” on Friday, February 11th. They will perform as the wedding couple walk down the aisle to exchange vows. The band's third and self-titled album releases on Geffen Records, March 22nd... (from Lifehousemusic.com)

Visit our friends at IndieAccessonline.com for new interviews with Mae and Copeland! Also, keep an eye out for a new interview with Eisely soon!

Congratulations to Garett Buell from Caedmon's Call and Carrie Theobald from Alathea who tied the knot last month! Best wishes to you both! (thanks to Rachel for the news)

*Monday, February 7th, 2005*

Nominations for the 36th Annual GMA Music Awards were announced today with top-sellers and new artists leading the field of nominees for the Dove Awards. A complete nominations list is available at www.gmamusicawards.com. Michael W. Smith leads the Dove nominations with eight individual nominations. Casting Crowns follows with seven nominations and lead singer/songwriter Mark Hall adds six individual nominations of his own. The Crabb Family also nabbed six nominations while the group’s patriarch, Gerald Crabb, earned six nominations for his prolific songwriting. Switchfoot’s nominations totaled five and frontman Jonathan Foreman added another three of his own; and in the reverse, Israel Houghton earned five Dove nominations with his group Israel & New Breed receiving two nominations. MercyMe and Matthew West round out the leading nominee list with five each. Artists with four nominations include Steven Curtis Chapman, BarlowGirl, Selah, Jeremy Camp, Martha Munizzi, Martin Smith, Joe Pace, Sanctus Real, J Moss and Matt Redman. Sadly, many of the more alternative/rock artists and albums were sorely overlooked. Newcomer Sarah Kelly, who although appeared on the primary ballot form, didn't take home a single nomination (save for her participation in the In The Name Of Love project). John Reuben's critically acclaimed Professional Rapper was snubbed as well as Project 86's popular Songs To Burn Your Bridges By. Another new artist, MuteMath, who did achieve a nomination for Modern Rock Recorded Song of the Year with "Control," was sadly overlooked in the New Artist Of The Year category as was popular pop/punk rockers Hawk Nelson. Regardless, congratulations to all of this year's nominees. The winners will be announced on April 13, 2005 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee. (from Spinhouse/JFH)

Bleach will play again! That's right, the band is reuniting next month for a benefit show for friend Aaron Marrs who was reported lost at sea recently in Alaska. The show is being held to raise money for Paperjack Films. Marrs had begun a documentary on the life of Alaskan fishermen. He was lost at sea in Alaska on January 15. The details so far for the show are as follows: Paperjack Films Benefit on March 13 at Rocketown in Nashville, TN. Show features: Relient K, Bleach (reunion), John Reuben, The Evan Anthem, Holland (Lonely Hearts), and The Kick. In other Bleach news, lead singer Davy Baysinger mentioned in a forum posting last month that there is a chance fans will see a live DVD of their final show sometime this year. Although not set in stone, it's possible the DVD will be packaged with a hits project with two unreleased tracks from the band. We'll keep you posted as more solid details develop. (from Bleached.com and The Kick)

The next studio album from Thousand Foot Krutch, entitled The Art Of Breaking, will be released in either late June or early July. The band will send out an email to their list once the date is set. There has been a lot of excitement about these songs and pushing it back a little helps make sure the album gets completed in it's best form. In other TFK news, their 2003 record, Phenomenon, was nominated today for a Juno Award (similar to Grammy's - only Canadian). The award is for Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year. Others nominated were Fresh I.E., Aileen Lombardo, Raylene Scarrott, Greg Sczebel. The Juno's are April 3 live from Winnipeg. (from ThousandFootKrutch.com; thanks to Jonathan for the news!)

Flicker Records rapper T-Bone has been laying low in recent months following some trouble with his vocal cords. But the veteran is back in the game and currently in the studio recording for a summer release! We'll keep you posted! (from Flicker Records)

Rebecca St. James will be releasing a “Teen Edition” of her popular book SHE coming from Tyndale this summer in very cool packaging for the younger she audience. Also, new music from Rebecca will be arriving on radio very soon! Her new album is set to be released in stores August 15th! More on that soon! (from The RSJ Team)

*Saturday, February 5th, 2005*

GRAMMY Award winning ForeFront recording artists Audio Adrenaline and TobyMac recently announced “The Diverse City Worldwide” tour, also featuring BEC Recordings artist Kutless and new labelmate band Hawk Nelson. Kicking off on April 2nd in Cedarville, OH at Cedarville University, the tour will run through May and hit 30 markets, including Phoenix, Anaheim, Denver, Kansas City and Minneapolis. Audio Adrenaline and TobyMac are both known for their high-energy shows, and as Audio Adrenaline frontman Mark Stuart says, “The artists of this tour were picked as perfectly as Juan Valdez hand-selects coffee beans from the mountain sides of Columbia. A perfect blend is coming your way - an aroma of rock and roll that you won't want to miss!" "This tour is about unity,” TobyMac comments. “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." (from The M Collective)

Speaking of Audio Adrenaline, a title and release date has been settled upon for their forthcoming album. Despite early reports that the title is Undefeated, the final title is Until My Heart Caves In. The release date is June 21st! We'll keep you posted as more information becomes available. Look for a brand new single to hit radio really soon! (from Audio Adrenaline)

Number One Gun is working on a new album. And to come along with the new record, the band has signed a new record deal as well! "Check out the shows and come out to one to get a taste of some new songs," the guys announced on their brand new temporary site at NumberOneGun.com. "We will be leaving in about a week and a half to record our next record with Aaron Sprinkle. And on that note, we are happy to announce that our record will be coming out on Tooth and Nail Records, we are very excited about this, and hope everyone else is as well. We hope to have the record out by the summer, but we'll keep updating the site with details as we get them." More to come! (from NumberOneGun.com)

Blindside is hard at work on new material as well. "In 2005 we are going to bring you more than you expect," announced the band in a newsletter this week. "New music, old music, music you never thought you would hear. We are just finishing our first DVD, a new website and oh yeah we might tour again too! We have some exciting new developments to tell you about but that will have to wait for another day..." (from Blindside)

One of our readers tipped us off to the latest from By The Tree... "New recordings are coming! Chuck and the guys have started the long process of conceiving the follow up to the current hit "Hold You High. With initial plans to release something new at summer's end, Chuck and the guys will use off days in February and March to begin developing material for the new project. Stay tuned to ByTheTree.com for continuing updates, sneak peak exclusives and more." (from ByTheTree.com; Thanks Ben!)

*Friday, February 4th, 2005*

Seattle-based beverage maker Jones Soda Co., famous for its fun flavors and creative labels, names Flicker Records rock artist subseven this week's MyJonesMusic feature band. In an effort to support local, regional and national independent music scenes, Jones Soda Co. has established Jones Independent Music. The purpose of Jones Independent Music is to create an alternative way for music lovers and musicians to communicate, share and learn from one another. The site, MyJonesMusic.com, features an information and support network that includes databases, links and resources to help up-and-coming artists. Subseven currently occupies the coveted "feature" spot, which allows visiters access to its music, images and other band information. Subseven is also center stage on a 15-city west coast tour with Falling Up and Morning September. The "Little Green Tour" tour wraps in time for subseven to promote its March 15 label release, Free to Conquer. The album is currently supported by a Rock radio single and music video to be serviced nationwide. (from Savvy Media)

Canadian worship band Starfield announced the departure of their drummer John Andrews yesterday on their official site... "Some breaking news! Johnny-5 - Starfield drummer extraordinaire has left the band as of January 1st, 2005. After much prayer and many long conversations it was decided that Johnny would no longer be holding down the beat for the Starboys. It was a hard decision to make, but everyone has eventually come to realize that it's in the best interests of both Johnny and the band that he move on. We're sure gunna miss him :-) Adrian our present technical director (and ex-drummer) is filling in for him until we can find a replacement. We are trusting that God has someone perfect for the job. We will keep you posted." (from Starfieldonline.com)

British worship/rock band Delirious is back in a United Kingdom recording studio again this week and live for the entire world to see in action via Webcam. Working on the follow-up to its current international hit album World Service (“Rain Down,” “Majesty,” “Inside Outside”), Delirious will keep the Webcam rolling periodically in a fun effort to give fans a front row seat to watch the band’s creative process. After this week’s in-studio session, Delirious gets back into the spirit of World Service, with a globetrotting February and March concert schedule that will include visits to Germany, Denmark, the United States (March 3 – 6), Australia, and Switzerland. (from Sparrow Records)

Underoath will be taking a week off after their stint on the Taste of Chaos Tour and will return to launch their first major headline tour since the release of They’re Only Chasing Safety. Fear Before The March of Flames and the Chariot are on the entire tour, while Hopesfall (Mar 27 - April 19) and These Arms are Snakes (April 19 - May 13), are each playing half the tour. Underoath has set up a way for fans to buy tickets at a reduced service charge before they go on sale to the general public. This pre-sale will run from 12:00 PM on February 3rd until February 11th. Get your tickets early by going here! This first group of dates are going on sale February 3rd, but keep checking back to www.underoath777.com because more dates will be added daily! (from Tooth & Nail Records)

Joy Electric's eighth full length album has been confirmed for release this August, on Tooth and Nail records. The fourth volume in JE's acclaimed Legacy Series, The Ministry of Archers will continue forward in the complex and progressive style started on 2001's The White Songbook. Check the recording journal at JoyElectric.com often for updates as the album nears completion. (from JoyElectric.com)

INO Records is set to release Undisguised, the new project by singer/songwriter Kara Williamson, February 22nd, 2005. Co-writing most of the songs on her first project with INO Records, Williamson defines Undisguised as “shedding the performance mentality—all the comparisons, pretending, facades and disguises.” Speaking honestly, “I’m admitting that I’m flawed,” professes Williamson. “I’m a broken vessel—thankfully, God uses broken vessels.” Undisguised reveals Williamson’s greatest challenge in life, the obstacle she embraces and continues to face daily. “My biggest struggle has been feeling the need to perform and be perfect all the time,” she says. “Growing up, I found myself motivated to meet people’s expectations. Even on my past work, I felt like I had to prove myself to people. I still struggle with it, but God has been breaking down my self-view through the process of this record and I’m at the place now where I’m re-learning that I don’t have to do anything to gain His approval.” Undisguised features songs that share with the listener Williamson’s honest and worshipful pleas, along with a love song to her husband Charley, titled “You Are the One.” The song “Dear Performer” is a personal take on herself, while “Work It Out” is an encouragement to a wandering friend. Taken from a poem written by her mother, “Oh Wounded King” is a song Williamson was compelled to write a melody to, as its words made a powerful impact on her heart. The title cut, “Undisguised,” and a remake of Michael W. Smith’s “Unloved” sum the message of Kara Williamson and Undisguised. Managed by Blanton Harrell Cooke & Corzine Management based in Nashville, Williamson has toured with Michael W. Smith and Point of Grace for the “Christmastime Tour,” on the “Christmas with Amy Grant” tour as well as participating on the “iWorship Tour” and dates with Natalie Grant and The Katinas. (from The M Collective)

*Wednesday, February 2nd, 2005*

For the next several months, fans can get an exclusive look into the recording of the new P.O.D. record. This information and footage is not available anywhere else. A vnew site will launch with the release of the new record later this year. In the meantime, check out the first clip on payableondeath.com which features some snippets of new music in the works as well as the band's odd encounter with a praying mantus... (from P.O.D.)

According to a recent update on his official website, David Crowder Band are up to a lot more than just their pending remix project Sunsets & Sushi, releasing on February 15. "Crowder is proud to present his first book, Praise Habit: Finding God in Sunsets and Sushi," announces Davidcrowderband.com, "and hopes that all of you read it. If for no other reason, you need to pick it up out of respect for the marketing tie-in between it and the remix record. And the cover, which is quite nice in its minimalist green coloring. The band has not read the book yet, so it’s difficult to give a glowing review and say that it will change the world, except that it contains a passage on Nunzilla, Scourge of the Convent, and that alone makes it spine-crushingly awesome. We will go out on a limb and say that, based on the cover (and Nunzilla), that the book will change your life. You will read it. This, once again, is pure fact." The update continues on to give a tidbit about a new studio project, DCB is also currently working on... "Also, the band has begun (slowly) working on tracks that will, by the grace of God, make themselves known on a new record. Don’t hold your collective breath as we are looking at a September release and it might prove awkward and bring some discomfort to remain oxygen deprived for such a length of time. We would instead humbly suggest a posture of quiet, keen, ardent expectation. Hands folded, fingers interlocking, eyes closed. This would be appreciated..." Sounds good! We'll keep you posted... (from Davidcrowderband.com)

Project 86 is hard at work in The Square writing new material for their fifth studio album. The boys are tentatively slated for an April/May session in the studio. There will be a producer announcement coming soon, when the final decision is made. Stay tuned for details on the writing process... which will be captured on the tour journal section of Project86.com. In the meantime, the guys are teaming with He is Legend for a special string of West Coast dates in early March. Joining them will be the mighty Classic Case, from North Carolina. During this run of shows, Project 86 and company will be hitting the Pacific Nothwest for the first time in 3 years! Click here for dates and details! (from Tooth & Nail and Project86.com)

Steven Curtis Chapman's famed Abbey Road Sessions are finally being released to the public! The Abbey Road Sessions and The Walk Long Form Video will be released on DVD together on March 29! Recorded for Steven's 1997 Greatest Hits collection, only two of the five Abbey Road re-recordings have ever been released to retail (but were briefly made available on eBay by EMI and to the SCC street team). The Dove-nominated long form video, The Walk, a retrospective ofthe first 10 years of Steven's remarkable career, has only been available on VHS until now. This package is a must-have for any Steven Curtis Chapman fan! (from EMI CMG)

In November, the members of Guardian met in Nashville at the World Famous Sound Kitchen Recording Studio to discuss new Guardian music. Tony Palacios, David Bach, Karl Ney, and Jamie Rowe hadn't been in one place together for a number of years. The guys were very happy to spend the evening discussing the great times together as well as make a blueprint for the upcoming Best Of Guardian album. The band will record three new songs very soon... (from JamieRowe.com)

Word/Curb/Warner Bros. buzz-band Stellar Kart wrapped production on a music video for its song "Student Driver" in Phoenix last month. The group has earned its up-and-coming status with a successful debut single, "Spending Time," and an opening slot on Kutless' "Strong Tower Tour," launching later this month. Stellar Kart's highly anticipated first release, All Gas. No Brake., is available to the public Feb. 15. To view the "Student Driver" video, go to: http://ecards.wordrecords.com/stellarkart_player/ For our PReview of All Gas. No Brake., click here! (from Savvy Media)

Relient K's "Be My Valentour" - their first headlining tour in support of their new album, mmhmm officially kicks off this week on Friday! Joining the tour with Relient K is Mae (Tooth and Nail Records) and Name Taken (Fiddler Records). For more info, check out RelientK.com. (from RelientK.com)

Kevin Max has been busy in the studio this month working on his first release for Northern Records. "Things have been going extremely well in the studio," writes Max on his official website. "Andy Prickett and I have been on a creative binge producing at least 12 new demos. The process has been interesting because Northern has a Neotek board set up on the premises and we can immediately go to tape. Warren Cuccurullo and I have a few more tracks together and it looks like we may be able to get John Porter (The Smiths, Roxy Music) involved at some juncture. A song that I have written with Dave Perkins (Steve Taylor band, passafist, Mark Heard) back in Nashville keeps haunting me and it seems we will add it to the project as well." Max continues on to talk about a recent new management deal and the effects it will have on his artistry. You can visit KevinMax.com for more details as well as recent plans for an upcoming Christmas DVD from Kevin! (from KevinMax.com)

Underoath fans can check out a new e-card for the ¡Policia! A Tribute to The Police, which the band did a cover of the song "Wrapped Around Your Finger". The record comes out Feb 8th on The Militia Group. http://www.themilitiagroup.com/ecards/policia/ (from Underoath777.com)

You can now check out "Caroline," a brand new music video from Seventh Day Slumber's brand new album, Once Upon A Shattered Life, which released to stores yesterday. Visit http://www.becrecordings.com/seventhdayslumber/ecard for the video. For our review of the album, click here! (from BEC Recordings)

Rocketown recording artist George Rowe and his wife Merritt recently joined Natalie Grant, ZoeGirl, Kristy Starling, Tammy Trent and The Katinas on a tour of the Caribbean. Teaming with the Salem Radio Network and a number of FISH radio stations and guests, the artists boarded the Carnival Cruise ship Victory and spent a week on the open seas leading worship and exploring such ports as Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Jamaica. “I loved having the opportunity to be with the people on this trip, the people who are on both sides of the radio,” said Rowe. “It was great getting to know the guests. I had a blast hanging out with the other artists and their spouses, and the people from the FISH Radio/Salem Radio Network were so fun too! As much as anything else, it was a special time for Merritt and me. No phones, no email, no alarm clocks and no kids (I admit, I missed our kids). Not since our honeymoon have we had time away, just the two of us, like this.” In addition to writing songs for a new album (scheduled for an early fall release), Rowe is staying busy in 2005 with a number of volunteer efforts. On Feb. 9, he will lend his voice to a tsunami relief concert at the Rocketown club in Nashville along with fellow artists Avalon, David Phelps, Rachael Lampa, Tait, Anthony Evans and more. The event and silent auction will benefit Operation Blessing, a non-profit international relief organization (www.ob.org). (from Rocketown Records)

The International Songwriting Competition (ISC) is pleased to announce its 2004 finalists. Songwriting for this year's competition proved to be at an extremely high level, making the selection of finalists out of 11,000 entries from 77 countries a most challenging one. Starting February 1 to February 28, 2005, members of the public can take part in the 2004 Peoples' Voice, an online voting contest that allows them to listen and vote for their favorite ISC finalist. The winner of the Peoples' Voice is in addition to, and completely separate from, the regular winners who will be selected by the ISC judging panel. In addition to the $100,000 in prizes given out the ISC winners, the Peoples' Voice winner will receive $3,000 in prizes, including a home recording studio from Xytar Digital Systems. Visit http://www.songwritingcompetition.com/winners.htm now for a list of finalists and for your chance to vote! (from The ISC)

The Summer 2005 Festival lineups are taking shape! Joshua Fest 2005 in Quincy, California, which is slated for September, has its final lineup available including Kutless, Thousand Foot Krutch, FM Static, BarlowGirl, Paul Wright, Roper, and more (visit joshuafest.com for the full list). Creation Festival '05 (East & West) has released their main lineups, as well, including such heavyweights as Newsboys, Michael W. Smith, Switchfoot, MercyMe, and Audio Adrenaline! Visit creationfest.com for more details!

The long-awaited new album from Mae, The Everglow, hits stores everywhere on March 29th. Check out the new album site at theeverglow.com to view the cover art and start the countdown until the day of the release! Stay tuned for the full launch of the site! (from Tooth & Nail)

Starting next this week, when you pre-order the new album from Norma Jean, O' God, The Aftermath, at Tower.com, you'll get a free exclusive Norma Jean t-shirt! This offer will only be good for one week and ends at 12:00 Noon PST on February 7th, so get ready! For more details about the offer, click here... (from Solid State)

Extol is set to release The Blueprint Dives on March 29th, 2005! The album will be released in partnership with Century Media, but the Solid State release will be available 6 weeks before the Century Media version so make sure you keep checking SolidStateRecords.com for where it will be available. (from Solid State)

Two-time Dove Award-winning Female Vocalist of the Year and New Artist of the Year, Jaci Velasquez, headed to London recently where she teamed up with British Producer Martin Terefe (Ron Sexsmith, Shea Seger, Kim Richey). The new album has a refreshingly organic sound the reveals a new musical and lyrical side of Jaci. Beauty Has Grace releases May 3rd! (from Word Records)

Also on May 3rd, Amy Grant returns with her follow-up to 2002's Gold-selling Legacy...Hymns & Faith. Experience a breathtaking collection of hymns and worship songs that have touched lives and cultivated faiths from generation to generation. Amy's new project features the production work of her husband, Vince Gill and longtime friend and producer, Brown Bannister. (from Word Records)

After five albums and a decade in Gospel and Christian music, the highly-acclaimed, award-winning brother/sister gospel duo Anointed is back in the spotlight with an eagerly-awaited new album, Now Is The Time, the beloved gospel duo's first recording for Sony Urban/Integrity Music. Now Is The Time is slated for release on April 5, 2005. Since the time of the group's inception, Anointed has been guided by the creative vision of Da'dra Crawford Greathouse and her brother, Steve Crawford. This spirit-filled vocal powerhouse draws seamlessly from pop, gospel and R&B influences to create a sound and a message which readily finds a home among congregations small and large, inside and outside the church. Anointed is among a handful of artists able to bring together the diverse audiences of modern Christian music: urban and traditional gospel as well as contemporary Christian. Anointed's wide appeal is reflected in the seven Dove Awards, two Stellar Awards and three Grammy nominations the group has earned over the years. Da'dra and Steve's passion for music and ministry, as well as their gift for inspiring diverse audiences, come together in the pair's latest musical collection. Now Is The Time is the work of seasoned artists and showcases the sophisticated presentation Anointed is known for in concert with the stylings of veteran producers Warryn Campbell (Mary Mary, Rueben Studdard), Mark Heimermann (Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant) and Roger Ryan (Shirley Caesar duet with Faith Evans). "It's about hope and encouragement and the songs are so dynamic," says Sony Urban Gospel executive vice president Tara Griggs-Magee. "I'm so proud of their work ethic and of their passion for this album." Now Is The Time also represents an artistic and professional evolution for Da'dra and Steve. While the pair are accomplished songwriters and arrangers and have always played a role on the production side of their work, this album marks their first producing credits on “Jesus Is Lord” and “You Are” and co-producing credits--with Ryan on both "Gonna Lift Your Name" and "Eternal Life." Gospel legend Andrae Crouch joined Anointed in a special appearance on “Jesus Is Lord,” the song he originally penned and made famous over two decades ago. The duo also wrote or co-wrote all but one of the album's tracks. "Making this album has been an extraordinary process," says Da'dra. "We made discoveries about ourselves and about the recording process, and now it feels great to be able to express ourselves more in the production of our songs.” (from Spinhouse)