Sidewalk Prophets Delivers Something Different

     On August 28th, 2015 Sidewalk Prophets released Something Different through Word Label Group . For those who have been following these young men since they hit the waves in 2009 with their first album, These Simple Truths you will not be disappointed with the new addition. With this being their fourth album, including Merry Christmas To You (great stocking gift by the way), fans patiently waited for the album reveal.

Big Dan Taking Care Of Business in Hillsboro, Ohio

     By "new addition" I am also referring to "Big Dan" or so seems to be this young man's nickname given by the "band elders". I have to give a quick shout out to Daniel Macal, he had some big shoes to fill and this young man has went above and beyond. 

     He fits in perfectly with the rest of these talented guys and let me just say, since I have seen him live in action he can definitely carry his own weight!  Rock on Big Dan! 

     The first hit off the new album Prodigal, delivers an incredible testimony of the redemptive power we find in Christ in a celebratory melody.  No matter what we've done, or where we have been He's standing there with arms open wide to welcome us back into His loving arms. Registering in the top five of Christian music charts since it's release is no surprise!  

Official Prodigal Video

     One of the most creative songs for me personally is If You Only Knew.  It's written as a contemporary conversation ballad between a simple person as you or I with their Heavenly Father responding to some heartfelt questions and desires. It made me get choked up the first time I heard it, which seems to be a skill these guys have with lyrics. 

 "All you need's a little faith. What about what I deserve? Well that's the beauty of my grace. What about my debt. I've already paid the cost. What about my sin? You see I nailed to the cross. You were never meant to handle all this on your own Just give me everything you have inside And let it go."

Dave Has Such a Powerful Gift in His Voice

     The title track, Something Different actually surprised me. I thought to myself, "Wow they are rocking it out a bit here." The exceptional thing about this album is that they have maintained the powerful testimony of faith in lyrics and still provide something different (pun intended) in every song.  

     After jamming out to a message about how people are supposed to see something different in us, they come at you with power ballad Everything In Awe. I cannot begin to count how many times I have skipped to this song repeatedly. It has nothing to do with the fact that it's one of my favorite songs. Well, OK you got me it probably is for that very reason, but who can deny the majesty of our Almighty Father? Not to mention the fact that Dave kills the passionate power vocals at the end that they build up to.  

     To Live As Christ conveys a sentiment of great faith especially in the times we live in today. We are all called for such a time as this to pick up our cross and lead people to Christ. "For me to live is Christ to die is gain.  My great desire is to be with you, but this is the place you chose for me, this is the place you chose for me. To lift my cross and give everything.  This is the time you gave to me."

     One of the most important aspects of the body of Christ is that we become united together for purposes far greater than we can comprehend.  Sisters and Brothers shares this emotion with cheerful enthusiasm. 

     Ain't Nobody (Till You're Loved) is a jubilant tune that reminds Dave of his time living in Hawaii.  I must say I am a bit jealous he used to live there. My husband and I visited awhile back and my husband didn't want to come back home, so this is his favorite song on the album.  Mainly because Dave wore a leis around his neck when we seen them perform it at Rock The Smokies . 

      Sometimes we all face difficult situations and circumstances. However, with God His word says anything is possible. Impossible encourages those who may be struggling with staying hopeful or doubting His sufficiency. "Some would say it's foolish, stepping on the waves. Some would say it's over when you're buried in the grave. We're calling all the dreamers, with passion in their eyes. Calling all believers out into the light. Even when it's hopeless, out of our control just let go, watch our God do The impossible, the impossible. Everything is possible."

     I'd Rather Have You and Closer (featuring Tamela Mann) are certain to be favorites from those who purchase the album. These two songs really brought some new soulful sound that I really enjoyed myself. Lyrically they both emphasize how important it is to focus on growing closer to God regardless of what other people chase, we have to seek Him first and we will be blessed.  Don't miss these gems they are remarkable and Tamela and Dave bring down the house...or the car wherever you may be listening to Closer at.

     There are several messages on Something Different that can minister to people on so many different levels.  Go For It encourages you to step out in faith and lay everything you have out there for God to use.  Keeping your eye on the prize and holding steadfast in your faith.  

     Solider On is zealous battle cry to push on through trials and tribulations no matter what may come our way.  Rising in the name of the Lord, refusing to wave a flag of surrender.  "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.  We got to soldier on, we will soar on wings like eagles."

     The most poetic deeply searching number on this album is definitely won by Homeless Heart.  Anyone who can look back on their life and reflect these emotions expressed through every lyric in this song will be moved by this message.  I can see many people who have possibly lost their way with God connecting so deeply with this song that it reconnects them to Him knowing they are not the only one who has been where they are now.  For this cause I am going to post the lyric video below.  

Ben jamming in Hillsboro, Ohio

     It's very difficult for me to pinpoint what my absolute favorite song is off this album simply because there are so many different styles and messages.  
     The only way I can decide is by returning to the night a few months back when I seen them live in Hillsboro, Ohio and they performed Come To The Table. My heart is grieved for those who don't know our Lord and Savior. I could not help but weep when in that public festival they blasted these vocals. I thought of the all-inclusive invitation that Christ offers and my heart spilled out in tears. I began to think of everyone walking around and standing there unaware of how much God has already given to them if they would just open their hearts and receive Him and come to the table.  Hands down most powerful song on this album and probably one of the best songs they have ever created. 

"To the thief and to the doubter. To the hero and the coward. To the prisoner and the soldier. To the young and to the older. All who hunger, all who thirst. All the last and all the first. All the poppers and the princess. All who fail you've been forgiven. All who dream and all who suffer. All who loved and lost another. All the chained and all the free. All who follow, all who lead. Anyone who's been let down. All the lost you have been found. All who have been labeled right or wrong. To everyone who hears this song, Ooh Come to the table. Come join the sinners you have been redeemed. Take your place beside the Savior. Sit down and be set free"

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                                         DAN                       BEN                              DAVE                       JUSTIN                           CAL

     I remember hearing Ben say at a concert recently that this is the type of album he's been hoping they would make for a really long time. Considering they have a blast on stage when they are performing is a good sign that he is completely satisfied with what they have created!  For those who have yet to buy the album if you can't tell by now I highly recommend it and make sure to Catch Them Live Near You!

     If you have a testimony about how Sidewalk Prophets has ministered to you please message me on our Glorified Pitstop Facebook Page. I would love to share it with others who read this.

Sidewalk Prophets Blesses Hillsboro,Ohio

 

Are You Ready To Celebrate!! Ding Ding 

     
     For the last 31 years Hillsboro, Ohio comes together as a city to celebrate The Festival Of The Bells.  Known for creating the steel alloy bells that were once shipped around the world, the city of Hillsboro created a three day extravaganza, in honor of our Nations freedom, with several special events taking place from Thursday morning all the way through Saturday night. 

     On Thursday evening while the city folk were visiting vendors and kids were riding rides entering center stage was the worship band GNG Live.  The name of their band was birthed through their home church Good News Gathering. After performing a few of their own creations, right in the middle of that festival they began to lead the crowd in a proclamation of We Believe. 

      When you are standing in a public place declaring your faith in worship, it's hard not to look around and gain strength in a spiritual army mentality. As we gathered in Hillsboro that day to celebrate our freedom not only as a Nation, but members of the body of Christ openly declaring our freedom in salvation, I began to cry. It's heartbreaking to think of some of the things going on in our Nation today but we don't face anywhere near the amount of persecution we see abroad. Let's rejoice in knowing we are still publicly allowed to praise the Lord, and continue praying for others internationally.

     During the weekend festivities Committee Members plan different events designed to establish in a fun way the ability to give back to those in need in the community. Since they have a large need for food pantry contributions this is one way to receive donations and raise awareness.  One of the events is a grocery shopping race.

"The object of the race is to push a loaded grocery cart through an obstacle course, pay for the items at the "checkout", and finish at the "parking lot". The team, consisting of two members, with the fastest time will be declared the winner and will earn food/gift cards for the food pantry of their choice."  

     This was the first year they incorporated a scavenger hunt into the agenda. They did have a limit of 25 teams being able to participate with groups of two. Contestants were required to be at least 16 years of age, with parental consent if under 18. Whoever was determined the winner, received the choice of either 2 VIP tickets for the Saturday evening concert, or a meet and greet pass for the entertainer of their choice.  If you plan to take part in this next year I would advise signing up early. 

    My lifelong friend Christy, who resides in Hillsboro, about an hour and a half away from me, had mentioned that  Sidewalk Prophets were going to be there opening night of the festival.  Unfortunately I am scheduled to work on Thursday nights.  I must say thanks to my brother, Keith who doubles as a co-worker. Him knowing how much Christy and I love their music, let me leave work at 6 PM.  He held down the fort by himself on a very busy night, because he loves his little sister. 

     With that in mind, Christy sent me a text shortly after 6 PM stating that Elder Brian Robinson had given her 3 meet and greet passes for Sidewalk at 7:30.   I was happy enough I was given the opportunity to go to the concert!  However, I was wondering if I would actually make it in time for the other.  As you can see below God cleared the road ways so I could shake these young men's hands that we are so grateful for.  Below, Christy and I pictured with the band and our friend Jeff who I must mention is sporting my brother in Christ, Pastor Brian Smith's fruitful First Heavy Metal Church Of Christ shirt. 

L-R Daniel (Lead Guitar), Cal (Bass Guitar), Justin (Drums), Jeff, Me, Christy, Dave (Lead Singer) and Ben (Guitar)

      
     God created a beautiful night of worship and celebration that day in Hillsboro, Ohio.  With a forecast of thunderstorms He parted the clouds and cooled the night air so the weather could not have been more perfect.  Sidewalk opened their set with their latest chart topper Save My Life. This song has always been one of my favorites  from them through the powerful lyrics they always deliver.  Mainly because it did lead me to witness to an 89 year old man who hadn't served the Lord since he was 14 years old.  In a nursing home two days before passing away he rededicated his life to God.  For that this song is golden to me.  

       It didn't take long for Dave to introduce Daniel to the crowd who joined the band last year after being chosen out of 100 candidates.  I personally feel he fits perfectly with this great group of guys, not to mention he can kill that guitar and it appears he feels pretty well at home throwing down with Ben. Sidewalk Prophets have announced that on August 28, their new album Something Different will be available, and is currently up for pre-order.

     If you have never seen these guys live, you are missing a truly blessed experience, not only are they gifted musically but they also wear their hearts on their sleeves and have a tremendous sense of humor. 

      

     They shared two brand new songs with the crowd that evening, the first release off Something Different Prodigal , and the other selection I believe was called The Kings Table.   Don't quote me on that title but based on the lyrics that is what I gathered.  This song brought me to tears that evening as I stood there thinking of all the people walking around at the festival that could hear this call to salvation.  God longs for all of us no matter what our current status, situation or circumstances are to come and dine with Him at His table of righteousness.  Only through Him can we celebrate true freedom. 

    

     About half way into the concert Dave and Daniel created a very charming reflective moment to share with the crowd. A song titled Doubting Thomas.   Originally created by one of Dave's favorite bands, Nickel Creek. This song is no lightweight in the lyrical boxing ring.  It is very raw and I had to share the official video (below) because now, not only do I know Sidewalk are gifted musicians, but they also have wonderful taste in music.

     One of the most profound moments of the night seemed to be when Sidewalk felt led to lead the crowd in the glorious hymn How Great Thou Art. 

     I don't have any idea how someone who loves the Lord can stand in an open public festival freely singing the words to this heart gripping anthem without feeling the presence of the Lord in a mighty way. When you consider all that He has made, the Glory and the Splendor and the Sacrifice He so freely gave to be reconciled to fallen man, my spirit aches for the day when I fall in humble adoration and sing my God How Great Thou Art!

     I was not the only one who was blessed by this spirit filled anthem.  Little did Christy and I know Jeff had spotted a lady off to the side whose tears were falling heavy and he felt led to speak with her.   Later that evening after Sidewalk had exited the stage to meet with fans and sign autographs into the wee hours of the night, we were introduced to Dora Boggs-Brady from Sabina Ohio. 

     Dora was running a little late getting to the festival and was specifically trying to get there on time to see Sidewalk Prophets.  Though she thought she was running late physically God had her arriving just on time spiritually.   When she was approaching the stage she came upon How Great Thou Art which was the same song her Father sang at her Son Dominick Howard Brady's funeral on May 14,2014. 

     Dominick was a member of Bible Baptist Church where he had been baptized.  He was an avid sports fan and loved the Cincinnati Reds , New England Patriots , Cleveland Cavaliers and one day had a dream to play for the Detroit Tigers which is why Dora wears that team symbol still to this day. 

     Dominick loved the Detroit Tigers so much that he drove around with their logo covering the back window of his car. Friends of Dominick now sport the same symbol in his memory on their vehicles. They also say that he was a young man of few words but a couple weeks before he went to be with the Lord they were hanging out on top of the dugout one night where they played for so many years and he looked up to the sky and said, "There HAS to be something more out there!"

      Dominick and his Mother Dora used to listen to Sidewalk Prophets together in the car and she would always look at him in that way only amazing Mothers can and say, "Be strong in the Lord and, Never give up hope. You're going to do great things, I already know. God's got His hand on you so, don't live life in fear. Forgive and forget but don't forget why you're here. Take your time and pray, These are the words I would say."

     Dora told us that Dominick would always roll his eyes at her when she would do that, but she finds strength in those lyrics now herself.  Many people have asked her why she is not angry at God for taking Dominick home at the young age of 19.  As she began to wipe away tears she told us, "I know he lived a good life, I trust God and know that if given the chance Dominick would not want to come back to this world at all.  He is in the presence of the Lord and I find comfort in knowing that He had a relationship with Christ before he was in that car accident. Several of his friends have gotten to know the Lord through his passing and I am grateful for the time I had with him while he was here."

     Sadly we all know we have to let loved ones go, and sometimes it's extremely unexpected. What's important is we remember the gift they was to us while they were here. Though the pain of them not being with us on this Earth is often overwhelming we know this is not goodbye. "It's just I love you to take with you until you're home again. "

     As an Alumni student from Clinton Massie High School, Dominick has forever left his stamp on the playing field where he loved to be.  As a memorial in his loving memory the school has given him his wings in honor of his love for the game. 

Christmas 2013 Dominick with his mom and two older brothers Michael and Jimmy. On the right His Memorial on the field.

     Not only does his memory live on inside his family and friends, but for those who never personally met him, there will always be an amazing story of a young man who once graced the fields that they now play on as well. The mascot from Dominick's school was a Falcon.  Dora said often times when she is driving around with a heavy heart in his absence, she will spot a Falcon that seems to be looking down at her.  She feels that is his way of saying, 

"Mom, it's OK, I'm good and I love you." 

     Once again God uses the testimony of His children, knowing that one day they will reunite in the splendor of Heaven, Dora trusts in the Lord with all her heart.  She doesn't lean unto her own understanding of letting her son go,  but trusts in the one to whom he went.  What a wonderful blessing this evening created and upon His rock He builds Eternal friendships.  

"For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life." - Titus 3:3-7