November, 2005
This week's newsletter from Relient K alerts fans on how they can support the band... on their phones!
"Got something to say about Relient K? Simply want to dedicate a message on their Nokia Unwired at Hard
Rock Live episode on MTV at 8 PM this Wednesday, November 30th? SHOUT OUT by sending a text message to
74774, standard rates apply. Remember to include your first name and last initial so we know who it's from."
Fans can also pick up the band's latest release, if you haven't yet, entitled Apathetic EP - in stores now!
(from Relient K)
Kirk Franklin and his wife Tammy will be appearing on The Oprah Winfrey Show this Wednesday, November
30 to discuss his long battle with and victory over pornography. Don't miss this very special edition of
Oprah as she talks with both Kirk and Tammy to confront this very sensitive issue. Check local listings
for stations and air times. Show your support for Kirk for taking a big step for the Kingdom by pulling
the cover back on a "dirty little secret" that has plagued people for far too long. Be sure to pass the
word on and encourage others to tune in!
(from Fo Yo Soul Entertainment)
Tree63 are proud to announce the return of their original drummer, Darryl Swart. Swart was a founding
member of Tree63 back in December, 1996, and played all the drums on the band's seminal albums up
until his two-year "holiday" beginning in July 2003. Darryl was temporarily replaced by another South
African, Theunis Odendaal, who moved on in June, 2005. Tree63 had the privilege of playing with Bobby
Blazier for the rest of 2005 before the recent return of Swart. John and Daniel proudly welcome back their
friend to the band. Be sure to check out the band's latest release
Worship Volume One: I Stand For You, which hit shelves last week!
(from Tree63.com)
Last Monday, the 21st, Haste The Day vocalist Jimmy Ryan announced his departure from the band.
The following is his official announcement he wrote on the band's official website, HasteTheDay.com...
"So….. I’ve decided to leave the band. Before anyone jumps to any conclusions, it was my own decision. I feel like this chapter in my life is coming to a close and it is time for me to move on. The guys in my band are my best friends and my brothers and my decision to leave has been a difficult one. I will miss them quite a bit as they continue on and as the band continues to grow as I am confident it will. The past 4 years have been some of the best years of my life. I want to thank everyone that I’ve met while traveling all over the nation for sharing your lives, your homes, your cities, your emotions and your love with me and the band.
I have a list of people about 10 miles long that I want to thank but I could go on for days about how you all have affected my life so positively. So let me thank you all here, you know who you are.
I’m stoked to move on but sad to say goodbye after these last few weeks on tour as I finish out the year with the guys. My last show will be December 30th @ The Knights of Columbus in Indianapolis, Indiana. If you can come out, please do so we can have one last dance.
Thank you and God Bless you,
Jimmy" The next day, the band posted some answers to fans' questions regarding this crucial change,
"This will not affect our Europe/UK tour. We WILL have a replacement.
Jimmy will be finishing the year out with the band so the From First To Last tour will be your last
chance to catch the band with Jimmy. Jimmy's last show will be December 30th @ the Knights of Columbus
in Indianapolis, IN. You can get tickets at www.kulture-entertainment.com. We are looking for a new
singer and if you are interested and you have touring experience (not just a week or a bunch of
weekeends, legitimate long term touring experience) and you can sing and scream, then please email
management@kulture-entertainment.com. We are DEFINITELY going to keep going! Lineup changes are an
unfortunate reality sometimes. Jimmy will be missed but we will have a replacement and we will keep
rocking!" Please keep the band in your prayers during this difficult transition.
(from HasteTheDay.com)
Hawk Nelson's big screen debut is in theaters now! As we reported a few months ago, the band
performs as the band at a party in new film Yours, Mine, & Ours, starring Dennis Quaid
and Rene Russo. In the film, the band plays a brand new song called "Bring 'Em Out," which can
also be heard in its entirety at YoursMineAndOursMovie.com, as well as a portion of their song
"Things We Go Through." For our review of the film, click here!
(from Jesusfreakhideout.com)
Crave Entertainment, a leading
publisher of console videogames, announced last week that they have shipped The
Bible Game for PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and Xbox
video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. The Bible Game
combines wholesome family fun with an engaging challenge of Biblical
knowledge, and is available at retailers throughout North America for a
MSRP of $19.99. The Dove Foundation has given The Bible Game the Dove
Family-Approved Seal and has rated The Bible Game "family-friendly."
The Bible Game casts players as contestants on a game show with
fast-paced, "beat the buzzer" action and a comical off-screen announcer
as emcee. 20 mini- and micro-games entertain players along with 1,500
questions focusing on inspirational Old Testament teachings such as
Jonah and the Whale, David and Goliath, Noah's Ark, and many more.
Multiplayer mode for up to four players encourages family members of all
ages to play together, and provides a fun alternative for family game
nights. Action takes place against an upbeat soundtrack provided by some
of today's hottest Christian artists, including TobyMac, Newsboys,
Kutless, Jeremy Camp, and more.
The Bible Game is also available for the Game Boy(r) Advance
handheld video game system later this month. Play as either Billy or
Jenny on their quest to collect the Armor of God and tackle 1,500
questions from both the Old and New Testaments. Stories, teachings and
personalities are intertwined with exciting action and adventure that
plays out over seven levels. Three difficulty levels make the game
accessible for all ages.
(from Biscuit PR)
Modern rock band Fireflight has solidified its place on
Flicker Records’ 2006 release schedule. Its national debut is slated for May 2006 and features production
by celebrated talent James Paul Wisner (Underoath, Further Seems Forever, New Found Glory).
Comprising Dawn Richardson (lead vocals), Wendy Drennen (bass), Glenn Drennen (guitar), Justin Cox
(guitar) and Phee Shorb (drums), Fireflight formed five years ago in Orlando, Fla. A fixture of the
local rock scene, Fireflight is familiar to national music audiences as well. Its self-released EP,
On The Subject of Moving Forward, also produced by James Paul Wisner, sold thousands of copies
independently. Additionally, Fireflight was named “Band of the Year” in 2004 by Songwriters Showcases
of America. “We are thrilled that Fireflight has chosen Flicker Records as its label home,” comments
Troy Vest, Flicker Records’ vice president and general manager. “The band’s amazing songs, crazy work
ethic and impressive live performance makes them a dream to have on board. Our goal is that Fireflight
will be among the industry’s most talked about new talents of 2006.”
Mo Thieman of Nightvision Artist Management agrees, “Fireflight is likely to turn heads and solidify
their place in the current music landscape. Flicker Records provides an ideal environment for fostering
the band’s limitless potential.”
Having performed alongside established rock acts Skillet, Emery, Anberlin, Disciple, and Kids in the Way,
among others, Fireflight will continue to tour throughout 2006 and beyond in support of its debut
release. The band has signed an exclusive booking agreement with The Jeff Roberts Agency.
Additional information on Fireflight’s new album is forthcoming. For more about Fireflight, visit
www.fireflightrock.com, www.flickerrecords.com,
or their JfH Artists page.
(from Savvy Media)
Pillar has released their brand new video for their latest
single “Frontline.” Fans can now watch a clip of the video at pillarmusic.com.
In the coming weeks, the band's home label Flicker Records will make the entire video free to download.
Pillar is currently headlining the See Spot Rock tour with Day of Fire, Falling Up, Stellar Kart and The
Wedding. Look for dates in your area here www.seespotrock.com. Also, be on the look out for a new album
from the band next Summer.
(from Flicker Records)
Switchfoot will be performing their hit "Stars" from
Nothing Is Sound on NBC’s Tonight Show with Jay Leno
this Friday at 11:35 p.m. EST /10:35 p.m. CST! In other news, Switchfoot visited Rome High School in
Rome, Georgia, recently to launch the 2005-06 Channel One ‘In Concert’ series sponsored by Verizon
Wireless. Channel One televises news directly to almost eight million students in nearly 12,000 schools
across the United States. The special Switchfoot concert aired across Channel One’s national network of
member schools on November 16, and footage will be streamed online at ChannelOne.com. Switchfoot
members also co-anchored the day’s Channel One News broadcast that was filmed on the Rome High School grounds.
(from Hoganson Media)
Rocketown recording artist Ginny Owens is scheduled to
appear live on CNN's "Live From..." program next Monday, Nov. 28, during the 1-2 p.m. Eastern hour.
Owens will be interviewed by CNN anchor Kyra Phillips about her non-profit organization, Fingerprint
Initiative, and its partnership with Habitat for Humanity to build Hope Village in Covington, Louisiana.
Be on the look out for a new interview with Ginny coming soon on Jesusfreakhideout.com...
(from Rocketown Records)
Due to popular demand, Our Daily Blog, a book by Pastor Jim Laffoon featuring reflections by
Peter, Phil, Jeff and Duncan of Newsboys has been put into hard
copy form and released by Zondervan. Featuring 366 daily devotions, based on characters and stories from
the Bible, this book can picked up at the band's online store or in a retail store near you.
For our review of a recent date the band did in Philly, click here!
(from Newsboys)
Curb recording artist Natalie Grant performed a duet with
country superstar Wynonna at last week’s 11th Annual Inspirational Country Music Awards, which were
broadcast live on Great American Country (GAC). Grant and Wynonna performed “Bring It All Together,”
from Grant’s critically-acclaimed Awaken, one of the top-selling albums by a female solo artist in
Christian music this year. The Inspirational Country Music Awards will be rebroadcast December 22 and 25
on GAC. Grant’s first Christmas album, Believe, released last month, and she will headline a
multi-city Christmas tour, which is scheduled to hit Los Angeles, Dallas, Seattle and Cleveland, among
other markets. In addition, “Held,” the breakthrough single from Awaken, remains a Top 20 mainstream AC hit.
(from Turning Point)
Word Records’ multi-Platinum, Grammy nominated and multi-Dove Award winning group, Point Of Grace,
announces its 16-city Christmastime tour in support of this year’s best-selling holiday project, Winter Wonderland.
Launching Nov. 30 in Camp Hill, PA and running through Dec. 18, the Winter Wonderland tour features
melodies from the all-girl group’s recently released and acclaimed holiday CD of the same name,
including “All Is Well,” the celebrated song as performed by Point Of Grace’s Heather Payne on the annual
Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith Christmas tours in years’ past. Other favorites includes “O Little Town Of
Bethlehem,” “Jingle Bells” and a special “Santa Medley,” among others. In addition to the renowned
harmonies of Point Of Grace’s Payne, Shelley Breen, Denise Jones and Leigh Capillino, the Winter
Wonderland tour will feature special guest John David Webster who also lends his vocals on the album’s
“Let There Be Light.” “It was the perfect time for the tour,” Breen says, “and we were so excited to be
able to bring back the warm, nostalgic feeling we all love about Christmas in a CD. So we set out to
make an album that people couldn't resist playing at all their holiday gatherings.”
(from Bozeman Media)
With Christmas right around the corner, it's time to make a stop at the Audio Adrenaline
online merchandise store and round up some goodies for your family and friends! As the band's Christmas present
to you, with every order you place, you will receive an Until My Heart Caves In promo CD! Previously
only available when you pre-ordered AudioA's newest album at a concert, this disc will make a great
stocking stuffer! Head over to AudioA.com for more details!
(from AudioA.com)
Hawk Nelson will be attending the movie screening and
walking the red carpet for the Nickelodeon/Paramount film, Yours, Mine, & Ours,
on Sunday, November 20 in Los Angeles. In addition, they will be on hand at the premiere party where
they’ll perform their song “Bring Em’ Out,” which Hawk performs in the film, along with an additional
song that is featured in the movie, “Things We Go Through,” from their 2005 Tooth & Nail release
Letters to the President Special Edition.
In other Hawk news... In September, the Nickelodeon Channel taped a movie special that begins airing tonight at 6:30 PM EST.
The special will air again on November 19 at 6 PM EST and November 22 at 8:30 PM EST. Portions of the
special were taped at Hawk Nelson’s concert at the ROXY Theatre this summer in L.A., along with their
performance with Nickelodeon star Drake Bell. In the meantime, catch
Hawk Nelson’s song “Bring Em’ Out” on the Yours, Mine, & Ours homepage at
http://www.yoursmineandoursmovie.com
(from The M Collective)
Sixstepsrecords/Sparrow Records’ Chris Tomlin will release
his first live recording Dec. 26, Live From Austin Music Hall. Tomlin recorded the new album
Sept. 18 in his hometown of Austin, TX along with thousands who came for an evening of worship at the
famed Austin Music Hall. The album consists of such CCLI chart favorites as “Forever,” “Famous One,”
and “Kindness,” as well as a brand new live version of “Indescribable” with Tomlin playing piano.
“Indescribable” is the first No. 1 hit off the 400,000-plus selling, award winning 2004 release,
Arriving. Joining Tomlin on stage for the Live From Austin Music Hall recording were
special guests and fellow Texans: collegiate favorite and label mate David Crowder, singer/songwriter
Cary Pierce, formerly of Jackopierce (co-wrote “Unfailing Love” with Tomlin), and Austin-based blues
singer Seth Walker. Also joining Tomlin on stage was Arriving producer, Ed Cash.
People gather at Austin Music Hall for the Chris Tomlin Live From Austin Music Hall taping.
Recording the album before a packed Austin Music Hall, over 5,800 people came to worship with Tomlin
while 2,000 had to be turned away after the hall filled to capacity and beyond. “Even if it was just
one, I would have felt bad, but the venue said they turned away at least 2,000. 2,000! I could not
believe it,” reflects Tomlin. "Needless to say, the crowd of worshipers was everything I could have
hoped for. I am now just hoping that we captured on tape what was going on in the Hall. I was so
encouraged to see how God is at work in my hometown, Austin.”
(from Hoganson Media)
BEC Recordings is giving away a free KJ-52 concert as well
as his much-loved minivan - which recently kicked the bucket after 250,000 miles of KJ-52 touring -
filled with KJ-52 goodies (t-shirts, cds, posters and more!). What do you have to do to win this
extravagant giveaway? Film a music video at least 1:30 in length for the brand new song "Napoleon
Dynamite" and send it to the label. The winner will be posted on the web for all the world to see.
Click here for full contest details.
To celebrate the release of KJ-52's new deluxe edition, which features five bonus songs and four full
music videos, BEC has posted the song "Napoleon Dynamite" on Purevolume! Click here to hear it!
(from BEC Recordings)
Highly acclaimed worship leader and recording artist Sarah Kelly is currently on tour in Sweden with
the New Generation student ministry, and will play in the major cities of Gothenburg and Jonkoping on
November 29th and 30th respectively, in Stockholm on December 2nd and finally Orebro on December 3rd.
Kelly’s sophomore effort, tentatively titled When The Past Meets Today, is currently underway
and will be released on Gotee March 21st. As a part of the major city tour of Sweden with New Generation,
Kelly will be performing as the main act in front of upwards of 4,000 people. New Generation is an
organization that exists to create positive school environments and works with other organizations to
take a stand against drugs, bullying, and racism. Founded in 1996 as a local group at Oslo University,
New Generation now has expanded to include over 15,000 teenagers in Nordic countries, with additional
gatherings in Germany, France, United Kingdom, Russia, Switzerland, and Hungary.
2005 has proved itself to be a year of high visibility for Kelly with her music being featured as part of
Continental Airlines’ “In-Flight” radio station programming, as well as having music exclusives featured
on Sony Connect (www.sonyconnect.com). In addition,
the national retail store Guitar Center added her image to the "World’s Largest Outdoor Photo Exhibit,”
a gallery found on the outside of 140 Guitar Center stores all around the country.
Sarah Kelly unveiled her debut album Take Me Away in
2003, which merited her a GRAMMY nomination in the “Best Rock Gospel Album” category. Take Me Away
grabbed the No. 12 spot on the “Top Christian Albums” Soundscan chart first week out by selling more
than 4,100 units. This feat secured Kelly as the highest new artist debut in the 10-year history of Gotee
Records. The single “Take Me Way” also landed a No. 6 spot on the CHR radio charts. With an average of
150-200 tour dates a year, Kelly has shared the stage with acts including the Paul Colman Trio, as
well as being an opener on the Fall 2004 Jars of Clay tour.
(from LB PR)
If I Had One Chance To Tell You Something,
the much anticipated new studio album from Grammy and Dove Award winner Rebecca St. James holds the
promise of giving radio, listeners, and retail much to be thankful for as it releases next Tuesday
(22nd) during Thanksgiving Week. The album, the first completely new studio project from St. James in
four years, blends a marked return to her rock origins with an epic overlay of pop sonics and self
written material that lends itself to painting her most revealing musical self portrait to date. Her
overriding message with the new music focuses on the raw urgency of life and her own vulnerability and
dependence on God--lessons torn not only from today's headlines but from a recent journey of deep
spiritual self discovery for the Australian born singer. Rebecca credits much of the inspiration for the
new music to a retreat she took late in 2004 to L'Abri, a study center situated high in the Swiss Alps
that was founded by theologian/philosopher Francis Shaeffer. "My month there was inspiring and I think
there's a feeling on this new album of depth and vulnerability and hope--themes that came largely from
this experience and the fresh season that this time helped me walk into." The 12 song CD offers creative
input from three of the industry's most currently and consistently hit productive producers: Tedd T,
(who has a strong history on past hit projects with St. James), Shaun Shankel and Matt Bronleewe. All
but one of the songs bears Rebecca's imprint as a writer.
The first single from the album, "Alive," is currently proving to be St. James fastest climbing single to
date, impacting national singles charts in both Christian CHR and AC formats.
If I Had One Chance To Tell You Something releases from EMI through their Forefront label. For a limited time it will be available at retail in a Special Edition DVD packaging that includes
two bonus acoustic tracks not available on the CD, concert footage, a photo gallery, and a vellum overlay
cover with deluxe photo booklet and song by song content.
Promotional plans for the album include a multi-city radio tour as well as media runs to major markets
including New York City for television in December. A tour in support of her new music will launch in
February with BarlowGirl confirmed on the billing with St. James.
(from Morning Star PR)
Thanksgiving Day is a day of full of "f's"... family, food, football, friends, fun and more.
This year, you can top off your Thanksgiving Day festivities with another "f"... Franklin! Next Thursday,
November 24 (Thanksgiving Day), Kirk Franklin will be making a
special appearance on BET's 106 & Park to premiere his new music video, "Looking For You"!
So, kick back with a big piece of pie, gather the family 'round the tv and catch Kirk represent the
Kingdom and bring "Looking For You" to the 106 & Park audience. BET's 106 & Park airs at 6pm/5pm ET/CT.
Bursting at the seams with the unmistakable elements of everyday urban culture, the video was co-directed
by Franklin and acclaimed director Darren Grant, who also worked with Franklin on the acclaimed "Stomp"
music video. The “Looking For You” video is also currently available for on-demand viewing on Kirk’s
website, www.KirkFranklin.us.
(from Fo Yo Soul Entertainment)
Fusebox is currently in the studio recording their third
full length album, tentatively titled, Transparent. Rob Hawkins (the producer) is doing a
fabulous job. Many of the songs, that fans gave the thumbs up at Billy's MySpace site (MySpace.com/billybuchanan),
are being considered for the album, including “Transparent,” “Bring It All To Me,” “Sleep Baby Sleep,”
and “Gotta Do Something.” The band is asking listener for prayers as they hope to make this the album of their careers.
(from Fusebox)
Taking a turn away from the classic "solo artist" role, Phil Joel
recently completed a brand new album, The deliberatePeople Album, to support the message and
mission of deliberatePeople. Written and recorded in Phil’s backyard studio, the
songs are transparent and personal, while carrying a strong theme of passion and devotion to the Lord.
This self-produced release focuses squarely on the dire need for relationship and intimacy with God.
Mixed by fellow Kiwi and longtime friend, Sam Gibson in Hereford, England, and mastered by Chris Blair
at Abbey Road Studios in London, the sound is organic and fresh, and is indicative of Phil’s New Zealand
roots. The message of deliberatePeople is simple: God wants to meet with His people every day. This is
where it all begins – the building of a dynamic relationship with God that transforms every area of the
believer’s life. deliberatePeople centers around a daily Bible reading schedule, a devotional journal,
and inspired music; complimented by a multi-faceted deliberatePeople web community.
“This has been our experience over the past four years,” Phil asserts. “Heather and I were abruptly
awakened to the desperate need for daily fellowship with the Lord, and now have a passion to see others
experience the same spiritual breakthrough. We are so excited to share these resources and this message
with others. We hope to witness a growing community of like minded believers who hunger for more
spiritual depth through the renewing of their minds in the Word of God.”
After recording The deliberatePeople Album in their backyard studio, Phil and his wife, Heather decided
that they wanted to keep within the spirit of “home-grown” and turn the mudroom in the back of their
house into a packing and shipping room. Lined with stacks of boxes full of albums and journals that pile
high to the ceiling, the Joel’s are ready with tape dispensers in hand to personally pack and ship each
order that comes in from deliberatepeople.com.
With the beginning of the new year around the corner, Phil and Heather hope to have a base group of dP
members who have answered the call to embark on God’s individual destiny for them by beginning the daily
reading plan and linking with others who have answered the same call. All information needed to get
started on this journey is available on http://deliberatepeople.com.
While Phil is committed to launching deliberatePeople, he’s also excited about his ongoing role within
the Newsboys. “The band is definitely on the brink of entirely new levels of ministry and we’re excited
about that,” Phil said.
Both the deliberatePeople Album and other dP resources will be available Friday, November 18th, 2005 exclusively
at www.deliberatePeople.com
(from LB PR)
dc Talk may not be recording a new record together anytime soon, but that hasn't stopped people from
remembering the band's most groundbreaking recording to date. The record that started a revolution in
Christian music and not only inspired this very site's inception 9 years ago, but it's inspired many of
your favorite new Christian artists. Gotee Records is planning to release a tribute album for dc Talk's
Jesus Freak record sometime next Summer. Details will be released soon, but so far, we can expect
a contribution from Gotee artists House Of Heroes...
(from Jesusfreakhideout.com, House Of Heroes, Gotee)
Christian recording artist FFH will release its sixth
studio album Voice From Home on Essential Records Dec. 27, 2005. The project features original
pop songs with a cohesive theme of God speaking to His people. This theme comes from the mentorship of
FFH frontman Jeromy Deibler by pastor and author Rich Stevenson through which the close-knit band drew
inspiration. Stevenson’s book, titled “A Voice From Home,” (Waterbrook Press, Sept. 2005) evoked conversation with
Deibler, and further discussion with all member of FFH. Deibler and his band mates then wrote songs
they describe as the other side of worship. Rather than writing songs to God, FFH wrote songs from God
in words of encouragement, hope and love as expressed through biblical scriptures.
“Every song on the album is routed in scripture, but it’s designed so you can listen to the Father’s voice in common everyday language,” says Deibler. “The songs on the album are in first person; it’s God talking to his people.”
FFH plans to tour with Stevenson holding church events that feature scriptural teachings from Stevenson’s book with music from Voice From Home. FFH has garnered seven No. 1 radio singles including “Still The Cross” and seven GMA Music Award nominations since their debut in 1998.
For more information, please visit www.ffh.net, www.avoicefromhome.com and www.essentialrecords.com.
(from Provident Music Group)
Ohio-based rock band Sanctus Real entered a Nashville,
Tennessee, studio last week to finish recording its third full-length album for Sparrow Records.
The not-yet-titled follow-up to 2004’s massively acclaimed Fight The Tide is scheduled to release
in spring 2006. “I’m really excited for you all hear this record,” Sanctus Real drummer Mark Graalman
writes in an online post to fans. “God has really done some serious work in our lives this past year...
I hope it will minister to everyone as much as the process of writing and recording it has brought
healing to us.”
Sanctus Real debuted in 2002 with Say It Loud and was named Best New Artist in the 2004
CCM magazine readers’ poll prior to the release of Fight The Tide. The latter disc has delivered
a steady stream of radio hits, including the #1 favorite “Everything About You,” and exceptional media
reviews.
(from Sparrow Records)
Joy Electric is releasing a brand new EP this month entitled Montgolfier and the Romantic Balloons EP.
The CD will be available at the JE store and at live shows only and combines two EP's into one. This limited
release features 5 completely new tracks, remixes from The Ministry of Archers and another unreleased
track taken from the 12" vinyl release. Montgolfier and the Romantic Balloons is a 5 song story
taking the listener through the history of airship travel that started in the 1800's and all but ended
with the Hindenburg tragedy. From beautifully atmospheric and melancholy to upbeat and joyful, this is
Joy E at their classic best. For information on how to order the EP, visit JoyElectric.com!
(from JoyElectric.com)
Norma Jean is planning on a re-release for O God The Aftermath sometime soon. No details have
been unveiled yet, but the band plans to add a series of extras to it. The guys just came off of their recent
tour with As I Lay Dying, Madball, and A Life Once Lost, but they're not planning to slow down all too
much... "We are also going to try to get a headstart on writing for a new record soon," the band
stated on their site earlier this month, "right now we are all home resting before the next tour starts."
For more information on what the guys are up to, visit normajeannoise.com
(from NormaJeanNoise.com)
When Jars of Clay burst on the scene with the hit song
'Flood' ten years ago, they hit a nerve with people looking for lyrical and musical depth in the midst
of a pop-dominated music culture. That depth and willingness to explore touchy issues such as
spirituality and relationships has helped Jars of Clay to build a loyal following and achieve
multi-platinum sales. Jars of Clay and Essential records have partnered with Apple to bring fans a
special installment of the iTunes Original Series. For the project, Jars went back to some of their
best-known songs from past albums offering insights into the writing as well as their growth as a band
over the years. The project released on iTunes.com this past Tuesday, November 8th. For our JfH review
of the digital project, click here!
(from Provident Music Group)
The San Diego-based rock band Switchfoot has added more
Gold to its collection… Nothing Is Sound was
RIAA Certified Gold one month after its Sept. 13 release. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard
200 bestselling albums chart with true first week's sales of 131,000, marking the band's best week's
sales and highest charting album position to-date. The group's previous album, the double-platinum smash
The Beautiful Letdown, peaked at #16 on the Billboard 200.
Switchfoot recently took part in an AOL Sessions event and performed live versions of their hit single
"Stars," as well as "Happy is a Yuppie Word" and "The Blues" from Nothing Is Sound. You can also see
in-studio performances and watch an exclusive interview with the band. To catch the AOL Sessions with
Switchfoot, visit www.AOLMusic.com.
Switchfoot’s tour that began Oct. 17 has logged 20-sellouts.
You can visit www.Switchfoot.com for the full tour
schedule and for the “Daily Foot,” featuring the band journaling from the road along with tons of behind
the scenes and concert photos. For our coverage of a recent stop in Philadelphia, click here.
(from Hoganson Media)
Third Day debuts its eighth national release Wherever
You Are at No. 1 on SoundScan’s Top Christian and Combined charts and No. 8 on the Billboard Top 200
Chart, the only Christian title in the Top Ten. With 62,561 in sales its first week, this is the band’s
highest street week debut. Wherever You Are is No. 1 on SoundScan’s Christian digital album
chart and also claims the highest Christian debut position in the history of SoundScan’s digital album
chart at No. 3 behind new albums from Blink-182 and Santana, and ahead of first-week releases by
Diana Krall and Imogen Heap. In addition, “Cry Out to Jesus,” the first radio single off Wherever
You Are, maintains the top spot on R&R’s Adult Contemporary Indicator chart for a second straight week.
For your chance to win a complete CD/DVD library (sans Wherever You Are) at Jesusfreakhideout.com,
click here!
(from Provident Music Group)
Fervent Records' acclaimed three-sister rock band, BarlowGirl,
this week claims R&R's No. 1 CHR chart position with "Let Go," the first single from their highly-applauded
sophomore album, Another Journal Entry.
BarlowGirl's "Let Go" is the band's third No. 1 single, following their duet with labelmates Big Daddy
Weave on "You're Worthy Of My Praise" and "Never Alone" from their self-titled debut.
Another Journal Entry will gain additional support this fall and winter while being featured
with newsboys and tobyMac. During the next two weeks, BarlowGirl will appear with newsboys at both the
Youth Jam conference in Cleveland, OH and on the One By One tour hitting Tallahassee and Ft. Myers, FL.
The girls will further traverse the Southern and Midwest U.S. on the Winter Wonder Slam Live tour along
with tobyMac, Matthew West, John Reuben, Grits and DJ Maj beginning in Dec. For a complete BarlowGirl
performance schedule and other up-to-date information, visit www.barlowgirl.com or www.ferventrecords.com.
(from Word Entertainment)
Word Records’ renowned song storyteller Mark Schultz topped
SoundScan’s Christian Music Video Chart for four consecutive weeks with his live CD/DVD set,
Mark Schultz Live—A Night Of Stories & Songs.
His fourth national release, a project featuring live performance video footage along with a
Schultz-hosted documentary, debuted at No. 1 on the video chart the first week following its Sept. 27
release. Mark Schultz Live—A Night Of Stories & Songs additionally features the hit single,
“I Am,” which recently garnered the No. 1 spot on PDA’s INSP chart. The song further continues to climb
at radio this week with Top 5 positions on R&R’s AC and INSP charts.
The project also includes Schultz’ acclaimed music video, “Letters From War,” which will further be
featured in an upcoming Billy Graham Television Special. Focusing on U.S. troops, with additional
commentary from Schultz following his video segment, the program will broadcast on over 150 network
affiliates and cable stations the week of Dec. 3-11.
(from Word Entertainment)
Critically acclaimed singer/songwriter Derek Webb is ready
to raise eyebrows and get people talking with his new CD, Mockingbird, his most controversial
project to date. This is his third recording with INO Records and releases on December 26th, following
his 2003 release She Must And Shall Go Free
and 2004’s I See Things Upside Down.
Mockingbird is sure to get people talking and even make some people uncomfortable, which is
exactly what Webb wants. Writing and singing about concerns of social justice, poverty, war and politics,
Mockingbird will immediately impact the listener with its raw and profound lyrics and get
tongues wagging on both sides of the fence. Sung in the folk stylings for which Webb is well known,
these new songs are easy on the ears yet pull at the heart and mind with introspective, yet provocative,
lyrics. Webb hopes people will be open to what he shares on the highly anticipated project. For those
who aren’t sure how their views line up with his own, all he’s asking is that they give him a chance.
“I’m not trying to push buttons or make people upset. I’m just trying to be as honest as I can. Even if
people don’t agree, I hope they’ll listen. I just want to get the dialogue started.”
“I think Derek has delivered his best record to date,” states Jeff Moseley, President, INO Records.
“I am a huge fan of the way he challenges our suppositions and makes us take a new look at the cultural
trappings of Christianity. Mockingbird is a watershed recording that will raise eyebrows and evoke
passionate conversation. I am proud to work with an artist that does not shy away from examining the
‘sacred cows’ through the lens of Jesus’ teachings.”
Webb is also quick to point out, “We have a history of not loving people well. We live in a country that was founded on genocide against Native Americans. We haven’t loved well and a lot of people don’t like Americans. We need to own up to some responsibility there, we need to look at why, and we need to let that inform how we’re making decisions for the future.”
Concerning the political aspect of Mockingbird, he exclaims, “If you look, Jesus doesn’t go straight down one party line. We try to fit Him in our western politics, but He wouldn’t land on either side.” Living in the middle is something Webb sees Jesus model and to let go of our idea that “Christian” and “Republican” go hand in hand. “We, too, have to be willing to move in and out of political systems and parties if we’re going to follow Him.”
For the most updated information and tour dates, please visit www.derekwebb.com and www.inorecords.com.
(from The M Collective)
Solid State Records’ latest members are wasting no time blazing a trail through the heavy music
scene. The Pennsylvania-born August Burns Red are finally
reaching a culmination for their efforts as they release their debut full-length album, Thrill Seeker.
Produced by Adam D (Killswitch Engage, Norma Jean, The Agony Scene), Thrill Seeker is a combination of
catchy metal licks and a pounding rhythm section, a sound one might easily mistake for a veteran group
rather than a band ranging in age from 18 – 21. To coincide with the album release, August Burns Red are
also launching the Thrill Seeker e-card, filled with photos, news, downloads and more:
http://www.solidstaterecords.com/augustburnsred/ecard/
In other August Burns Red news, the band continue their non-stop tour schedule as they complete their current tour opening for Bury Your Dead, Terror and Scars of Tomorrow.
For more info, visit www.augustburnsred.com
(from Solid State Records)
Mono Vs. Stereo band Maylene And The Sons Of Disaster
unveiled their self-titled debut album with an impressive first week out, landing the #125 spot on
Billboard Magazine’s Heatseeker chart, as well as the #22 spot on the Rap/Rock Alternative chart with
1,231 albums sold. Led by former Underoath lead singer Dallas Taylor, Maylene And The Sons Of Disaster
includes Josh Cornutt (guitar), Scott Collum (guitar), Roman Havaland (bass), and Lee Turner (drums).
The band is currently on The Southern Thunder Tour with label mates The Showdown and Chasing Victory.
They’ll tour in December with Maverick/Gotee crunk-rock act Family Force Five, as well as The Chariot
and As Cities Burn. Also notable is their music video for the song "Tough As John Jacobs" which will
be serviced next week to MTV2, Headbanger's Ball, Fuse, Much Music, and other outlets. Radio promotions
are underway to metal radio and specialty stations.
(from LB PR)
Broadcasting to over 730 colleges across the country, with a combined enrollment of 6.5 million,
mtvU is the largest, most comprehensive television network just for college students. And on the evening
of November 2nd, Philadelphia natives mewithoutYou joined
artists like Muse, Green Day and My Chemical Romance in taking home victories from mtvU’s impressive
candidates for their 2005 awards. In mtvU’s “Most Original Artist” category, described as, “genre-busters, coming out of left field to
surprise audiences so much, they still have no idea what section of the record store to look for them
in,” mewithoutYou joined such nominees like The Arcade Fire, Matisyahu, M.I.A. And Saul Williams. Also
nominated for the Most Downloaded award, mewithoutYou walked away with one win for the evening in an
awards ceremony to be aired November 10th on mtvU and mtvU.com.
mewithoutYou have not only received critical acclaim from television and magazines alike, but the band
have been busy tearing up the touring circuit with groups like Coheed and Cambria, Dredg and The Blood
Brothers since the October 2004 release of their sophomore Tooth & Nail release, Catch For Us The
Foxes. Since then, mewithoutYou have been progressively gaining fans through their relentless work
ethic and alluring live show.
(from Tooth & Nail Records)
Award-winning male vocalist David Phelps announces the
itinerary for his fourth-annual Christmas tour. The 12-city tour will also feature INO Records’
Anthony Evans along with comedian Darren Streblow and female vocalist Erin O’Donnell in select markets.
The tour launches on the heels of the release of Life Is A Church, Phelps’ best-selling and critically
acclaimed solo project which saw a Top 5 sales debut in its first week of release.
This years’ Christmas tour begins on December 1 in Columbia, Tenn. and wraps up on December 19 in
Springfield, Mo. The tour has grown to become one of the Christmas season’s most highly anticipated
concerts and once again promises to be an interactive celebration of the season.
“I love Christmas,” says Phelps. “The decorations, the songs, the food. It's always so cool to see
everybody bundled up making their way into the concert hall each night of the tour. These are always
my favorite concerts, and we have a great evening planned for this year’s tour.”
Phelps’ Life Is A Church released on September 27 with a debut in the Top 5 on SoundScan’s
Christian Retail sales chart. Additionally, the project entered Billboard’s prestigious “Heatseekers”
chart at #9. The project has already received critical praise in addition to its commercial success.
(from Word Entertainment)
Simple/INO/Epic Records’ band The Afters were announced as
the winners for the “Streaming Video” category of the 2005 mtvU Awards Wednesday night at the Roseland
Ballroom in New York City. Band member Josh Havens accepted the award during the live taping of the
awards, which will air on mtvU and mtvU.com on November 9.
The Afters’ video for “Beautiful Love” was voted by college students on mtvU.com winning the
preliminarily rounds by eliminating artists such as Alicia Keys and Matisyahu. They went head to head in
the final round beating Hawthorne Heights, My Chemical Romance and Aesop Rock to win the category.
mtvU is the largest television network created specifically for college students. It is broadcasted to
more than 700 colleges across the nation reaching 6.5 million students.
The Afters currently are touring with Jeremy Camp and Bethany Dillon on the Restored tour.
They released their national debut project this year, I Wish We All Could Win.
(from The M Collective)
Tooth and Nail rock group Thousand Foot Krutch has been
doing more than just playing music these days. In addition to their recent 23 city tour, they recently
received three Covenant awards at the 27th Annual Canadian Gospel Music Association (CGMA) Covenant
Awards, held in Toronto. The categories were, Artist of the Year, Group of the Year, and Modern Rock
Album of the Year. Also, their current single, “Move,” is having continued success. Released August
23, it is currently #22 on the Active Rock Chart, #32 on the Rock Chart, and getting new adds/increased
spins at Alternative, all according to Radio and Records. The video for “Move” was shot in late September
and is being serviced this week to video networks. For more information visit www.thousandfootkrutch.com.
For our review of their latest record The Art Of Breaking, click here!
(from Big Machine Media)
BEC Recordings band Falling Up once again has noted success
with their new album Dawn Escapes in both radio and press. The new album has debuted #4 on
Billboard’s “Heatseekers” Chart and sold over 6,000 units the first week. Their new single “Moonlit”
is the most added song at rock radio this week and has been chosen as a “Flavor” song on Music Choice
being touted as “catchy track tailor-made for mainstream rock radio.” Their first single “Exit Calypsan (Only
In My Dreams)” landed in the Top 5 on the R&R Christian Rock Chart!
For our review of Dawn Escapes, click here! Keep an eye
out this weekend for a review of the crazy final date of their recent Falling Up Tour...
(from Big Machine Media)
Carrying on its tradition of globally relevant music, Delirious?
returns with their new studio album, The Mission Bell, releasing Dec. 26 on Sparrow Records.
Known as the galvanizing force that changed the face of worship and for its compelling live performances
that took them into 23 countries last year alone, Delirious? speaks directly to the Church through The
Mission Bell, delivering a call of action to all believers.
“What are we going to do with what we have been given?” asks Delirious? member Martin Smith. “We love
what we do, but there’s gotta be more. We want to make a change. Surely, this whole God thing is not
just for putting Christian records out. Surely, God has called us to higher things. It’s not enough to
sit back and enjoy the ride, but to be sure of the ride we’re on.”
This is the shared vision of Smith, guitarist Stu G, keyboardist Tim Jupp, bassist Jon Thatcher and
drummer Stew Smith, delivered in the vessel that is The Mission Bell. There is a sense of urgency, a
challenge to the Church to quit talking about what it believes and to take action with all it’s been
given. “I think there’s a lot of inspiration for people to get out of these songs,” says Stu G. “I think
it’ll help some folks kind of work out their calling, work out what they’re supposed to be doing.”
And this message will resonate all over America as the band’s first stateside radio single from the
recording, “Fires Burn,” hits the airwaves next month. “There aren’t many songs about the return of
Jesus and it is a healthy reminder that heaven is the destination,” says Martin.
Sometimes the mission Delirious? shares also means tackling the difficult issues. In the album’s
“Our God Reigns,” the band deals with the subject of social injustice, particularly A.I.D.S., abortion
and the constant focus of Western culture on self-improvement and materialism, definitely not the usual
subject matter for rock ’n’ roll, but something Martin felt was important to address. “All I had was the
chorus when I started out, and I thought ‘Oh, fantastic, this is going to be another little church song
that everyone will sing. That will be great.’ But I could not write any verses for it, and all of the
sudden, these heavy lyrics came out,” Martin recalls.
The album also features the talents of well-known artist tobyMac on “Solid Rock,” a remake of the hymn,
“On Christ the Solid Rock.” Additionally, The Mission Bell will be enhanced with a 12-minute behind the scenes video.
In anticipation of the December 26 release of The Mission Bell, Delirious? will be prepping
For all the latest tour updates, go to www.delirious.co.uk.
Expect an early review of the project's UK release to hit JfH within the next week...
(from Hoganson Media)
Dove Award-winning, Grammy-nominated hitmaker, NewSong
plans a season of Christmas blessings with a new song, tour and network television movie appearance.
The blessings start with the debut of a new Christmas song, The Christmas Blessing," featured in the
upcoming CBS holiday television movie of the same name, and will include a 16-city Christmas tour
featuring Sony/Integrity labelmate Anointed and new Reunion Records' artist Ana Laura.
The Christmas Blessing could be destined for the same phenomenal success as their 2002 #1 AC pop
hit, "The Christmas Shoes" which inspired a New York Times best-selling book by Donna VanLiere and a
highly rated television movie. NewSong debuts "The Christmas Blessing" in the CBS Sunday Movie, based
on VanLiere's book The Christmas Blessing, a sequel to The Christmas Shoes. The group
actually appears in the movie performing the song. "The Christmas Blessing" was written by NewSong's
Eddie Carswell and Michael O'Brien. Integrity Music Group is making plans for limited release of the
song this year and it will be included on a Christmas CD NewSong will produce for 2006.
The Christmas Blessing is scheduled for broadcast on Sunday, Dec. 18 (9:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on
the CBS Television Network and stars Neil Patrick Harris ("How I Met Your Mother") and Rebecca Gayheart
("Urban Legend") with a special appearance by Rob Lowe ("West Wing") who starred in the first movie.
A CBS Television press release describes The Christmas Blessing this way: "In this heartwarming
holiday drama, the sequel to the highly-rated 2002 television movie The Christmas Shoes, the
young boy from the original film has grown up and meets a young woman and a boy who both, with the help
of a Christmas miracle, change his life. The Christmas Shoes was the second highest-rated
television movie of the 2002-2003 season, attracting nearly 17 million viewers.
"God continues to show up in big and unexpected ways," said NewSong founding member Carswell. "'The Christmas Shoes' phenomenon took us all by surprise and was more than anything we could have imagined. And, "The Christmas Blessing" has already exceeded our wildest dreams. We're so excited about the movie, tour and Donna's 'Christmas Blessing' book... to see God's hand at work has been humbling."
(from Spinhouse PR)
Ana Laura, new Reunion recording artist, sang
“The Star-Spangled Banner” at Sunday’s Bass Pro Shops MBNA 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Race at the Atlanta
Motor Speedway. The race was aired on NBC and watched by over 10 million viewers.
Prior to the race, Ana Laura performed songs from her upcoming self-titled album as drivers prepared for
the race. After the concert, she spoke to The Weather Channel on Pit Row and discussed the best and
worst weather to sing in. Later she attended the driver/crew chief meeting where she prayed with race
associates, drivers, their pit crews and others.
Race drivers welcomed Ana Laura to the track including Dale Earnhardt Jr., Rusty Wallace, Dale Jarrett,
Kyle Petty and race winner Carl Edwards. Also welcoming her was Gov. Sonny Perdue of Georgia. During
the event, Ana Laura was invited to watch the race from the skybox of Atlanta Motor Speedway owner and
Chairman of Speedway Motorsports, Bruton Smith.
Ana Laura is currently on the Girls of Grace Tour and is slated to release her debut album in early 2006
on Reunion Records. She is also featured on the opening track of the original Christmas album
Come Let Us Adore Him from the producers of the City On A Hill series now available in stores.
(from Provident Music Group)
GRAMMY winning producer Jason Burkum has just completed producing the new Pivitplex album,
The King In A Rookery. Due in stores in February 2006, the album contains 13 new original tracks.
"I hope people give this record the attention it deserves. I hope they take an hour to sit down and really
LISTEN to it," Burkum said. " If they do, they will discover that this record has heart and emotional
honesty. I think that somehow we've captured the highest highs and lowest lows of those of us involved
in this project, and it translates into some amazing music."
Jason has produced hit records for Audio Adrenaline, Tree63, Kids in the Way, and Casting Pearls. Burkum
earned his first GRAMMY award last year for producing Audio Adrenaline¹s hit record, Worldwide.
Recently Burkum launched his own record label November Twelve Records and signed Pivitplex as it's
flagship artist. The King In A Rookery is a follow up to Pivitplex¹s debut smash,
Under Museum Quality Glass on BEC Recordings, which earned the band their first top ten hit,
"You Know."
(from Aristo Media)
Third Day and longtime promotional partner Chevrolet have
teamed up to celebrate the group’s eighth national release, Wherever You Are, with an eight-city mini-
tour, beginning Nov. 1 in the band’s hometown of Atlanta. The “Third Day All Access: Stories And Songs
Tour” will feature the five-man band in “storytellers” type setting, presenting songs new and old, as
well as sharing stories and answering questions from fans.
The Third Day All Access tour’s initial performance, scheduled for 8 p.m. EST, will also be broadcast
live on the internet through Earthlink LIVE and on the band’s website, www.thirdday.com, as well as
on SKY 1 Radio Networks. Fans can also visit www.thirddayallaccess.com for chance to register to be part
of these unique events.
(from Provident Music Group)
Platinum-selling Gospel artist Kirk Franklin will be
appearing on ABC’s Live With Regis And Kelly this Wednesday morning, November 2. Franklin will be
performing his latest single, “Looking For You”, which is also the new #1 Gospel single in the country,
according to the Billboard Radio Monitor! Franklin’s new album, “HERO”, has been the #1 selling Gospel
and Christian album since it’s October 4 release. Check local listings for stations and airtimes.
For more info, log on to Kirk’s website at www.kirkfranklin.us.
Also, be sure to catch Kirk's performance on BET 25 Strong: The Silver Anniversary special tomorrow
night, Tuesday, November 1 at 9:00pm EST/8:00pm CST.
(from Fo Yo Soul Entertainment)
P.O.D.'s sixth full-length studio album Testify is now complete, looking at
a January 24th, 2006 release date. The band didn’t want fans to have to wait any longer for some
new music. Atlantic Records have been gracious enough to allow the band to get a very special EP
out immediately. The first Warriors EP released before The Fundamental Elements of Southtown
back in 1998. 30,000 copies were pressed and sold out quick, becoming a much sought after
collectors item. On Tues, Nov. 15th, hit your local record stores fast, or you might even consider
pre-ordering, to grab Warriors EP, Vol. 2. This will be a one time special record
for the most hardcore P.O.D. fans. There are only 40,000 copies of this release being
made. You will also be able to access the EP through iTunes, but only up until Testify releases.
Inside the EP is also a handwritten letter from Sonny to the band's fans, the "Warriors."
Check it out November 15th!
(from P.O.D.; gathered by JfH)
After months of work, Jeff Deyo is currently putting the finishing touches on the Surrender DVD -
the companion to his Surrender CD that came out in August. This DVD features the live footage from the
concert recorded at Parachute Festival in New Zealand back in January. Like any good DVD, Deyo and company
have thrown in every extra they could think of. There's the 70-minute concert feature, which includes many
of the songs from the Surrender CD, but also features two songs that didn't make their way onto the record.
There are also lots of bonus features including interactive chord charts to help you learn how to play the
songs, behind the scenes footage, interviews with Jeff on some of the spiritual teachings behind the songs,
and more. Fans will soon be able to order the DVD online at the JeffDeyo.com store, as well as purchase
it at his product table at any of his concerts. For at least the first few months, this DVD will not be
available in stores, so check out his live show or online store to get your copy. Stay tuned to JeffDeyo.com
for more info!
(from Jeff Deyo)
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iNTELLECT Roots [Polished Arrow]
