Showing posts with label Dara Maclean. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dara Maclean. Show all posts

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Son of God CD Review


Review of the Various Artist Contribution to Son Of God Soundtrack

     At the end of this month on February 28th 2014, the anticipated film Son of God will commence in theatres. Highly successful Hollywood producer, Mark Burnett is excited about people in remote areas around the world that will have access to the gospel through this film. He and his wife were “warned” by people not to switch to producing Bible based films, right before creating the acclaimed mini-series The Bible. Currently that same series which got a broad spectrum of viewers in the United States is number one in Hong Kong; and following as the number one series in England on Channel 5. Those who warned them are now choking back dust by the popularity among diverse groups of faith-based morally uplifting positive movies.


     Regardless of religious affiliation people are intrigued by the life of Jesus Christ. Since His walk on Earth, people have been perplexed, blessed, changed and intrigued by the character He portrayed and life that He lived amongst some who followed Him, most who mocked Him, and the majority who crucified Him.

     Word Records has teamed up with the film company, Light workers Media and formed a compilation inspired by The Bible mini-series and the epic film release Son of God on the 28th. Releasing on January 21, 2014 this multiple-award winning artist collection makes an excellent purchase for your listening pleasure. Featuring some familiar Christian Radio tunes along with a few never heard before creations that will surprise you, it’s one that you can leave in rotation for quite some time.

     This album has reaffirmed my applause for the beautiful Francesca Battistelli as she belts out a hauntingly stirring performance in the first track “Oh, Son of God”. I am uncertain if it is on radio or not because I had never heard this song until reviewing the CD but it was like an orchestra in my heart strings. There is a passion that resonates deep in the soul of one who has been made whole in Christ when such evoking melodies are birthed as this.

     Chris August follows in with, “Jesus, Savior”, which is heard broadly on Christian radio. With on spot vocals and lyrics that touch the hearts of listeners you simply cannot lose. “Just call him Jesus, Savior, Son of God; the King of Kings. Our salvation has a name.” He states the simple truth in this song, but it’s the truth that has changed the world.

     One group I have always enjoyed For King & Country, will vocally delight your ears and lyrically touch your heart in their delivery of “Baby Boy”. "As angel’s sing and the Earth rejoices “Endless hope and relentless joy started with a Baby Boy".

     Inspired by the life of Christ, the epic motion picture The Son of God and the mini-series, The Bible, the sequence of this album is spectacular. “He Said” performed by Group1 Crew is a quickening encouragement to all.

     As the body of Christ we go through things that are heartbreaking at times. Things we can’t understand can knock us off course or make us lose sight of the prize that awaits us. “He Said” helps you refocus on the promises of God and the power His Word gives us in our lives.

     One of the most valuable songs for me personally was poetically demonstrated by the sweet and humbly talented Dara Maclean. “Our Only Hope” authenticates the relevance of God and the love of Christ that was personified by God for mankind when He gave Himself for all on the cross in place of our penance. These words speak volumes;

“You’re healer to the broken. Shepherd to the lost. Father to the orphan adopted by the cross. There’s comfort in your arms, it’s where our healing starts. Our only hope is Jesus.”

     Sidewalk Prophets, come barreling out with “Keep Making Me”.  Sometimes when God is getting ready to move us into something greater the enemy wants to jump in and try to steal our faith away by attacking us in areas that are the most important to us. God says in His word that He is closest to those who have a broken and contrite spirit.

   
     This song carries three verses starting with the following pleas, “Make me broken, so I can be healed.” “Make me empty, so I can be filled.” And last but not least, “Make me lonely, so I can be yours.” From a heart that wants to be surrendered fully over to the Lord’s will we come to this place in prayer often not realizing how much we rely emotionally and physically on people and things rather than on God until He answers and begins to let them get taken away.



     Being reformed in Christ is never an easy transition and often times calls for repeat visits in order to renew our hearts and minds in the calling that He places on our lives. He doesn’t call us to a certain position or job; He calls us to become the person we are meant to be in Him. Point of Grace, beautifully echo’s this in “Only Jesus”.



     Repentance is not a once in a lifetime experience at the cross. It is a daily renewing and searching our hearts to make ourselves pure before the unspotted lamb of Christ through forgiveness which only Jesus has the power to give and the spirit to grant lovingly.

     Jason Castro, who recently dropped his dread locks like a hot potato delivers the unwavering “I Believe”. Following the same trust pattern that many of us have had to do in our lives; trusting God no matter what the situation looks like to us carnally.

“And in times of struggle Father this I know. That on this narrow road I never walk alone. And though I don't understand, tell me who can know your plans? And when I cannot see - I believe.”

     Considering I was unfamiliar with the bands, Everfound and Love and the Outcome they were the two biggest surprises for me. One of the reasons I love compilation albums I suppose, is that your musical library gets to check out something new that you are unaware even exists. I am sure I have heard other songs by these talented artists but I never made a connection to their names until now.

     In “God of the Impossible”, Everfound brings a fun revelation to how He can use any of us to do amazing things that even we cannot begin to fathom if we simply believe and are obedient. My favorite part of this song rests in these lyrics.

“Empty bones and a thirsty soul, dreaming for more than the life I have known. Until I tasted a burning coal, and my guilt was erased, and my sin was atoned!”

     Love and the Outcome, also bring a lighthearted joy to the table with "He is With Us." Proclaiming that no matter what may come our way and no matter what storms we face we can trust Our God, for He is with us always. “Our faith is sealed, our hope is real, come what may we’re not afraid”.

     “Jesus Move”, performed by Big Daddy Weave is an engaging call to worship among the saints calling the power of God down upon our lives allowing His love to come alive in each and every one of us for His glory.

     Closing out this affirming classic Meredith Andrews, releases a sweet aroma in “The Gospel Changes Everything.” Jesus made a way so we could all come just as we are to our God. The cross was a rescue mission; for our souls redeemed by the Gospel, which Christ became in the flesh. The Son of God made a way so all could come to the Father through Him.

      Many of the award winning artists on this album will be featured guests on The Bible Tour 2014 starting March 20, 2014 in Lake Forest, California. You can find out more information about purchasing tickets or volunteering for events in your area by visiting The Bible Tour . Until then, I know this album will touch you spiritually and ignite that desire more fervently anticipating the release of this epic film on February 28, 2014.

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

What Britt Nicole Delivers Is Golden





     Internationally known to top the charts in the UK and throughout the US, Britt Nicole is no stranger to the music industry. Her sophomore release, The Lost Get Found debuted at number one on the Christian Album Billboard Charts and produced three top ten singles.

    On March 26, 2012 she will be releasing her third album, Gold.  It is ironic to me that God’s perfect number is three and this album introduces itself as her best production to date.

     Britt was born in North Carolina on August 2, 1985. Three short years later she began to utilize her vocal gift from Godin her home church. She continued to blossom, singing on her local church television program and gracing the prestigious Carnegie Hall stage with her High School’s advanced choir. In 2011 she carried a nomination for “Female Vocalists of Year” through the Dove Award Association.

     With two chart-topping albums in her pocket Nicole has accumulated a large fan base. I have a feeling on March 26, that number is going to increase. The vocals on Gold could be compared to secular artists like Adele and Katy Perry. Lyrically speaking it’s more of a combination between Dara Maclean and Royal Tailor. With intricate beats that will get you on your feet and lyrically and vocally matured vibe this is definitely not a par for the course addition to her discography.

     All This Time, which was the first release has been steadily remaining on the Billboard Charts. Any one who has truly been transformed by the love of God, could very well be wiping a tear away as this song reminds you how great He has truly been. Lyrically expressing, “I hear these people asking me, how do I know what I believe? Well, I am not the same me, and that’s all the proof I need. I felt love, I felt your grace, you stole my heart that day.” Sometimes we take for granted how far He has brought us from where we used to be and this song is a heartfelt reminder.

     If you are like me, you usually have one or two favorites off of each album you buy. However, on this album it’s extremely difficult to narrow that down. As I was in my car listening to the title track, Gold (video below) I did have a moment. I felt like teenager who should have been wearing a big pair of white shades like the Go-Go Girls used to wear, cruising around jamming out with the windows down. I wasn’t too concerned that I probably looked ridiculous to others, considering I am almost forty.

     The mere fact was that I was enjoying it immensely. There is a brief segment toward the end where it appears one of the Spice Girls took over her microphone. As she breaks out, “So don’t let anybody tell you that your not above, and don’t let anybody tell you that you’re not enough, yeah there are days that we are feeling like we’re messed up but the truth is that we’re all diamonds in the rough”. It’s easy to hear why she has gained a good-sized fan base in the UK area.



     Look Like Love is very lyrically powerful. Reminiscent of the popular release from Revive , titled blink. Britt shares the importance of taking time to share with others the love of Christ. Instead of a ballad as produced by Revive, she delivers a provoking feel good message to utilize your joy and happiness to lead others to the saving knowledge of the cross. The design of this type of song is to awaken you spiritually to be about your Father’s business. Doing the work of the ministry and at the same time drawing your attention to spending time with family and friends. These things are pertinent to us during this day and age.

     We all struggle and sometimes get discouraged, whether we have others supporting us or not. When the walls around us begin to crumble, we have to bury ourselves in faith. Who You Say You Are, is a fantastic composition and the message is encouraging to each and every single person who has trusted God to live for Him. "I’ll still be smiling when the sky is dark, cause I believe that you are who you say you are."



     Another addictive number Ready or Not has the same effect on me as Gold. It tends to be pushed up on volume control as I drive down the road with the breeze blowing through my hair. Vocally speaking I feel this song really puts Britt’s voice in a pocket where she truly sounds the most unique. I am uncertain who performs the rap section, but it slides right in there and just adds to the pure impeccable production of this piece.

     Breakthrough is a victory driven melody that expresses someone putting their foot down in personal areas of their life. A destiny waiting where one is meant to be free and they are tired of the devil trying to bring them down. “You can’t make me fear. I’ve cried too many tears. Yeah I’ve had enough now I am gonna call your bluff.” The song does engage you in an electronic mix appearing to be the transitional moment for the breakthrough.

     Stand is an encouraging tune about whatever one is facing, as long as we stand in faith knowing He is with us we will be fine. The Sun Is Rising, is one of the softer additions and really anchors on the essentiality of keeping your eyes on Christ.

    Another electronic vibe awaits you in Amazing Life. This song returns a few tracks later with a remix version that adds more spice to the already spiritual adrenaline driven track.

     Still That Girl and Seeing For The First Time are both beautiful additions to this album and a great way to draw it to a close. You will find great similarity to the passionate moments that Kari Jobe shares on her up-tempo ballads. I think these two songs will get the most airplay if they are released as singles. Seeing For The First Time, is undeniably one of the best songs vocally on the entire album. You can also feel her expression of heartfelt adoration come through and it's crisp and soft and simply spotless.

     There is a bonus track on the album titled Straight For Your Heart, which is a message from the throne of God to each and every one of us. “Your heart beats, but it is just keeping time. You’re living but you don’t feel alive. The world outside is turning, while yours is lying still, in a cycle spinning spiral holding you until. Right here, right now I am coming straight for your heart.”

     I am about two listens away to the bonus track achieving number one status in my book. That being said, the entire album is simply great. Immanently the best album created by the lovely young Britt who truly just wants to express her love for God to others in a fun moving way. If you know young people who like the sound of Kate Perry, Lily Allen, or Kate Nash and you would like to influence them with a message of hope and faith that they can relate to musically buy them this CD. I believe you could change their lives with that simple gesture. If you personally enjoy Group 1 Crew, Royal Tailor, Dara Maclean or Kari Jobe, or if you are a CCM fan at all, on the 26th do yourself a favor and invite her sounds of music into your heart.

     Bottom line, ready or not she is coming, she is golden and she is knocking it out of the box!



Sunday, January 1, 2012

Winter Jam 2012 Artists Took Time Out For Interviews



     Fans throughout many different cities standing in freezing cold temperatures and downpours of rain await the explosive performances as the annual Winter Jam tour celebrates it’s 17th year. Each band brings to the stage life changing melodies and messages of hope geared toward youth, yet spanning across every generation from every angle. From the heart felt worship of Kari Jobe to the heart pounding delivery of Billboards 2011 top Christian artist Skillet, the diversity of talent and genre of music draws thousands of expectant guests each year. Many leave wishing they had arrived a few hours earlier to avoid being one of the many turned away due to venue capacity limits.

     Aside from Skillet and Kari Jobe, transcending host NewSong is joined by Sanctus Real, Peter Furler(former lead for Newsboys), Building 429, Group1Crew, illusionist Brock Gill and national speaker Nick Hall. The pre-jam session includes performances by the beautiful Dara Maclean as well as For King and Country and We As Human.

     This is not the first year they have turned hopefuls away at the door. For three decades Newsong have traveled together sharing the love of God and the message of hope with all that have opened their hearts to hear the good news. Speaking with Billy Goodwin, it is clear that they do not take lightly the opportunities that God has blessed them with. The gift and provision that He has bestowed upon their lives for ministry is an open blessing that God has poured out on their lives.
“I just cannot believe that God has allowed us to do this for so many years. You know everyday I wake up I just say thank you God for letting me do this one more day. I just pray He continues to let me do it as long as I breathe.” -Billy
Billy Goodwin of NewSong
     When Newsong started this tour seventeen years ago, it was just Billy and a few other guys and they would sing using soundtracks. They rented a venue in South Carolina and did not sell any tickets in advance. It was a three-dollar entry fee at the door and they had to turn away two thousand people that year.

“It was amazing to us what God did, we really had to seek His wisdom after that and find out what it was He wanted us to do. So, for the next couple of years we added a few more artists and just called it the January Jam.”-Billy

     Last year the highly anticipated Winter Jam turned into one of the largest tours including the secular music industry. Unsurprisingly, Pollstar has voted it as the highest attended tour of the first quarter for 2012.

     I asked Billy what his thoughts were on why this tour seems to bring larger turn-outs than pre-sale concerts.
“Many factors play into the turn out. Local promoters generally take over and run the show and we just come in and do a concert. Many people cannot afford a lot of the higher price venues that use promoters and I also believe that God wants to keep us grounded. He wants us to stay faithful no matter how big or small the crowd is.”-Billy
     One thing is certain the Winter Jam crowds are huge! For the talent that is offered on this tour, ten dollars is a steal. However, it does come with a bit of a price consisting of hours in line in very cold temperatures and downpours of rain. Thousands continue being turned away because so many people show up to get in. To anyone planning to attend one of the future shows I would recommend at least arriving two hours early. Also, you can purchase the advanced VIP tickets that guarantee you an entry. The cost is a bit higher but you won’t have to worry about being a part of the turn-away crowd.

    Speaking of crowds, the crew on this tour produced by premier productions is so diverse my curiosity led me to ask Billy how they all fit together.
“We are having a blast! Show attendance is up, which transfers over to the increase in numbers we have seen for people giving their lives to Christ. It feels like we are just a big traveling church. These artists on this tour are really putting everything they have out there on stage, and Skillet really puts on a great show and John Cooper (lead singer) is really just a great guy and getting to know all of them has just been great.”-Billy
     A reflecting crowd of youth, grandparents, toddlers and middle-aged join together to share in the one purpose at the heart of the tour. I asked Mr. Goodwin the key element to reaching young and old alike as a band staying contemporary through three decades of ministry.
“We have really been able to connect even through the generation gaps simply because the heart of our message always stays the same. It’s about the purpose of Christ and how He can change your life. It’s a message that has transformed each of our lives and we are just sharing with people what it has done for us. As far as the diversity of the fans, you know we try to keep the energy high, reaching a wide spectrum of ages.”-Billy
It will be interesting to see what Spring brings for Newsong considering they plan on finding some “free time” in the midst of touring to work on putting together a new album. I joked with Billy because it amazes me how people put all their faith and trust in God for His provision basically living on the road.
“We are thrilled to be doing what we love and have the opportunity to minister into the lives of others. It’s also our way of supporting our families so we are very thankful to those who come out and support us.”-Billy
     One person who certainly knows the depths of laying it all on the line to walk in obedience is Peter Furler. Simplifying his life with wife Summer, they sold all of their belongings and moved to the gulf of Florida in a RV.
     This happened after his supportive exit from Newsboys as lead singer. After doing over a hundred shows a year for over a decade Peter felt it was time to slow things down and just be in the moment, agenda free. During this time of rest God revealed a new thing to him.
“Artistically and creatively, I began see that God didn’t make the horse to win at the races, but for his pleasure – to watch it run,” Peter explains. “I had a definite yearning to get back to nature, to express myself creatively, to do something just for the joy of it.”-Peter
     Since Peter and his wife Summer are slowing down to enjoy the simple things of life, I asked him if they had plans on having children and if he thought that would cause them to settle in somewhere instead of continuing in music ministry.
“My wife and I love kids and we are not really the settle down type of people you know. I don’t think having kids would cause us to stop doing what we are doing. We are out here on tour now with John from Skillet and others with their kids. These kids love being on tour with us and they are great with their kids, so I doubt it would change anything for us. You have to create proper balance though. Family comes first, before the music. Sometimes people make the mistake and put their own ambitions and desires before family and that’s just wrong.”-Peter
     Even though Mr. Furler no longer sings lead for Newsboys, he is a great friend with all of the members. Recently he worked on an album with previous co-producer Steve Taylor who is currently working on a movie production called Blue Like Jazz set to release April 13, 2012 which is why the album has yet to be released. Instead of holding the lead vocals on this production, Peter actually returned to his original Newsboys position of drummer and back up singer along with friends Jimmy Abegg on guitar and John Painter on bass.

     The creative bug bit Furler while working on this project which is what caused him to start his solo project On Fire released in June of 2011. I asked Peter if he has any idea what lies ahead for him after his solo album tour.

“Not sure really. I mean I love making and recording music. I don’t have any grandiose plans of world domination, just taking one day at a time and just stopping to enjoy the process. I do hope to make another record and we are just having the best time of our lives. The Winter Jam tour has been such a great atmosphere. Each act is really good and everyone is really nice. The camaraderie and the fans have been great on this tour. You know to see everyone lined up in the cold and rain waiting to see us is a real blessing.”-Peter


     Chris Rohman, lead guitar for Sanctus Real mentioned specifically how moved they have been by all the fan support on the Winter Jam tour. He also said it is kind of like a big circus with all the people that are on the road.
“You know sometimes it gets pretty crazy out here, there are like 140 of us on this tour.”

     Since Matt and Chris are from Toledo Ohio, they were very excited to bring the tour home to Columbus and Cleveland in January. For those who missed the first two buckeye visits, the tour will be returning to Cincinnati on March 17th.

     In 1996 Sanctus Real began their rise in the industry with three independent albums followed by five album releases on the Sparrow label. They have been writing songs for the tenth release expected to be out sometime next fall. As their albums have increased in maturity I asked Chris, what the main theme of the new album was about.

“I don’t really think the theme is different, but it’s just our lives and how they are taking shape as we get older. You know, all the things you learn along the way as an adult and parenting and it’s just all that taking shape with what God intends for us to become.”-Chris

     Jason Roy, lead singer for Building 429 found God’s intentions taking shape as he stepped into a worship leader position at his home church. Like many of his fellow tour mates, being an extension of ministry out of their home church on the road is naturally a testimony not only to their home church, but also to the body of Christ in general.

“Our worship team at church actually sings background on our latest album Listen To The Sound. I really feel like everything I learned from becoming lead worship in church has crossed over into the album and hits a chord that everyone can relate to. Many of the songs are from actual situations people have faced and struggled and tried to find their way out of. God does not want us to stay in that state of defeat. We have to fight for our families and grasp onto our faith.”-Jason
     The general consensus of each individual I spoke with was spot on with why I believe the Winter Jam Tour continues to thrive and succeed both with audience attendance and hearts and lives being transformed over to the grace and mercy of Christ.

     Every single last one of them have the armor of God prepared in musical formation and their feet shod with the gospel. The core purpose and intention of the desires of their hearts is to see lives changed through the transforming power of salvation. None of them see themselves as Christian artists, famous singers or Dove award nominees. They consider themselves blessed vessels for the Glory of God to be revealed in this day.

     Peter Furler summed it up fairly nicely after I became emotional during our interview setting aside a moment to express my gratitude for how his music had ministered to me for over a decade. He was appreciative but quite humble refusing to take any credit for what God did through the messages. I asked him if there was anything he would like to say to others who had been ministered to through the music he produced that he does not always have an everyday chance to speak with. His response, “Oh boy. Well, your life is just as important to God as mine is. You know He created the Heavens and the earth. We all have a certain roll and a certain place and when we find that role, we find joy in that. My role happens to be a singer and a songwriter, you know. Focus on God and His word and seek Him. Find where your joy is at in Him.”


     Ironically in that moment, he managed to minister to me again and I doubt he even knew it. None the less it was a blessing to get a chance to speak with some of the most humble Christians I have spoken with and each one of them were inspiring and motivating. I believe if you have an opportunity to make it to the Winter Jam tour this year you will have a phenomenal experience. Check the website for tour dates. Also, for all those West Coasters out there, keep your eyes open because the tour will be heading your direction this fall!

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Kutless Interview/Show Review


     The One True God Tour led by Newsong kicked off in Adrian, Michigan September 30, 2011. Kutless joined them on stage along with fellow musicians Dara Maclean and Anthem Lights. Each group brought humble ambition to their performances, which led to a night of many people responding for the first time to accept Christ or rededicate their lives.

     Dara opened the show with grace and beauty and recognition to the wonderful freedom we have available through Christ. Anthem Lights followed opening with a fantastic a cappella version of the Hymn, My Jesus, I love thee.

     NewSong took the stage next with several great performances. Matt Butler testified how Christ came through with His healing power for their daughter that was born premature. He performed their next release, The Same God after sharing the victory he and his wife received in their daughter, who has since grown into a healthy toddler. Russ Lee, the lead singer and songwriter followed up with a wonderful altar call after a very powerful performance of their anthem hit Arise My Love.



     Kutless took to the stage to close out the evening with an influential performance of several of their hits like Pride Away along with beautiful renditions of their more recent worship chart toppers Everything I Need and What Faith Can Do. My personal favorite of the evening was the heartfelt performance of Amazed. God has done some amazing things in my life lately and I just allowed myself to soak that particular moment in.

     As a Christian, we are not immune to trying times or situations and often times we will find other people who face similar challenges and circumstances. Over a decade of music ministry Kutless has been able to reach so many people spiritually, by touching on deep matters of the heart through song. With the release of their latest album It Is Well, the spiritual maturity of this band communicates a stronger realm of faith to their listeners.  

     The power of Christ has always been the driving force that keeps the lyrical aspect of these fist pumping performers motivated and cultivating the hearts of thousands of us. Band members include Jon Micah Sumrall (lead vocals), Dave Luetkenhoelter (Bass), Nick De Partee (Guitar), Jeffrey Gilbert (Drums) and James Mead on Guitar.

     Before the events for the evening started Dave, Nick and Jeff met with me to briefly to discuss a few important topics to them. They shared about their desire to reach as many people as they can for Christ, their upcoming album release and the importance of family.

Question - So, if I am not mistaken this is the first night of the One True God Tour is that correct?

     Nick - "Yes, and so far it’s been great. We have toured with NewSong before and we are looking forward to this tour as well."

Question - So you guys just got back from a trip over to the Philippines, can you tell me a little bit about that experience?


     Jeff - "Oh yeah it was a really great experience, we played for three days there and over the three days we saw thousands of people come to Christ."


     Nick - "Yeah, we are still recovering from that trip. It really takes a lot out of you traveling like that sometimes both physically and emotionally."


     Dave - "Yes, that is true and we have the Winter Jam Tour directly following the One True God Tour. Right after that we will be going on the Very Merry Christmas Tour."

Question - Not to mention you have a new album, that is going to be released coming up next year right?

     Nick - "Yes, and that is hopefully going to be available in February."

Question - So how do you learn to balance your schedules with life and family and the trials and exhaustion that comes with traveling?

     Jeff - "Well, it’s definitely not easy. Thankfully, we all have wonderful women that support us and love us and see us when we come home and we are exhausted and they know and understand what we go through out here. It’s a lot of different things combined with just the emotion that pours out and the physical aspects of it. So, it’s great to have the support of our families and hear the wonderful stories that people come up and share with us.
     We read email after email of how their lives have been effected through our music. As long as God continues to move us in this direction it is the way we will go. It’s just different now. When we first started we were young and out of high school and just ready to jump in a van and go wherever. Now, we have families and kids and responsibilities and you know we want to give our family 100 percent not just 50/50"


      Kutless originated their name through the scripture Romans 6:23 in regards to Jesus Christ for taking our cuts for us. Therefore we become cut-less for the blood that He shed on Calvary for our redemption through His grace and mercy.

Question - Personally I am a very lyrically moved person and your songs over the years seem to have tapped into my private time with God in prayer.
I was curious who is behind the lyrical make up of your music and if you guys write about your personal experiences or if it’s experiences you have heard from other people?

     Nick - "It’s sort of a combination of all those things. Really we all have been a big part of the music that we write, and a situation will strike with us and we will find something in scripture that goes along with that circumstance and we just flow with what God leads us to write and incorporate that together. I heard a great quote one time, 'If you write a song from your brain it will reach someone’s brain. If you sing a song from your heart you are going to move someone’s heart.' "
    
     Dave - "You know there are a lot of really great songs out there. There are some people out there that just write from the heart, even if it’s not Christian based if they can connect with people on an emotional level that is what people respond to."

     Jeff - "Yeah, a lot of people will ask us what our next album is going to be about. Is it going to be rock or worship? Then they will ask what our favorite song is to play on tour. Most the time I will say one that rocks out. However there are times when we will be playing certain sets and I will look around and see how different songs are ministering to certain people. There are other times like with the latest album, It Is Well when we will be playing I’m Still Yours, that God will just really start dealing with me in my spirit about things. That is our goal as a band, to impress that power of God in their hearts. We really have one purpose and we just incorporated all of that into the new album."

     These humble young men have exuberant stage presence that fills auditoriums. With the authority we have in Christ to shout His victories or the honest submission of their hearts for His glory to be revealed. You are guaranteed to be moved physically, spiritually and emotionally if you are able to catch them live.