HM News Update: Week Ending 11-18

HM Magazine News
A new issue of HM has now hit subscribers' mailboxes and newsstands. It's got Demon Hunter on the cover. Subscribers can look at the entire issue online. We just put another issue of the side publication -- Heaven's Metal Fanzine -- to press. It's got Swedish power metal band Veni Domine on the cover. Lord willing, we'll finish up the next issue of HM Magazine (with Thrice on the cover) later on this week. We've been working hard, but haven't forgotten to post up a cool Southern Hospitality Tour blog/diary from the guys in High Flight Society; as well as some other exclusive online content. We've just released two new t-shirt designs, too -- the Worship at Full Volume 2008 model and the scenester t-shirt with a heart on its sleeve. And we're also sponsoring a Skate Video Contest. Check it out.

Virgin Black Set To Release Next Piece Of Trilogy
THE END RECORDS has set a release date of February 19th, 2008 for VIRGIN BLACK's 'Requiem - Fortissimo,' the much-anticipated follow-up to 2007's 'Requiem - Mezzo Forte.' On its latest album - the second instalment of a trilogy - Virgin Black exhumes the death/doom vibe of early Paradise Lost and My Dying Bride albums. This is by far the band's rawest and heaviest work to date The album's cover art was created by esteemed fashion photographer Andrew Dunbar who's work will be seen throughout the series Says singer/keyboardist Rowan London about 'Requiem - Fortissimo,' "I should feel a sense of dread offering up something so atypical for us to be interrogated and scrutinized. But the fearlessness that we inhabited while writing Fortissimo and the Requiem series survives to see its unveiling. An album not so much about death as the absence of life; it's damn heavy but its countenance is far more brutal than its sound could ever be. Long live the "death choir." You can hear the track 'Silent' by visiting THE END RECORDS' official MySpace page. Says London about the song: "The track, Silent, simultaneously represents both the divergences and links between Fortissimo and Mezzo Forte. I'm sure that it will surprise a few people."
Tracklisting:
1. The Fragile Breath
2. In Winters Ash
3. Silent
4. God in Dust
5. Lacrimosa (Gather Me)
6. Darkness
7. Forever
Official VIRGIN BLACK website: virginblack.com
VIRGIN BLACK @ MySpace: myspace.com/virginblackofficial
THE END RECORDS @ MySpace (where the VB song "Silent" is at: www.myspace.com/theendrecords

Sanctus Real Release New Track On iTunes
The new album from Sanctus Real titled We Need Each Other will hit stores in February of 2008. But until then you can download the new single “We Need Each Other” November 13th on iTunes. You can watch a short video of the band sharing the story behind why they wrote the song here. Stay tuned for news on the upcoming album and tour dates.

A Dream Too Late Debut Album ReleasePe
From the fertile musical soil of Albany, Oregon comes the next major rock band to take the world by storm, A Dream Too Late. Following in the footsteps of their Oregon predecessors (Falling Up, The Send), A Dream Too Late perfectly blends melodic vocals with dynamic rock and intricate programming. Leaping out of the gates with an already impressive tour history (Run Kid Run, The Send, Ruth, Falling Up), A Dream Too Late will hit the road with starry eyes and beautiful new album, Intermission To The Moon, in stores now! You can get "Intermission To The Moon" on iTunes now! A Dream Too Late's e-card is now live! You can hear music, check out the latest news, tour dates, buddy icons, banners, and more! Check it out now! Their video Premiere of "Intermission To The Moon" on Purevolume now! Check it out and let the guys know what you think.

What People Are Saying:
"The riffing guitar work and spot-on vocals help lift ADTL above the crowd."
- Relevant Magazine

"Melodic vocals, intricate programming and empowering message...an intriguing debut."
- CMCentral.com

"A Dream Too Late...creating an album that is one-of-a-kind. This record is proof that A Dream Too Late has musical, lyrical, and vocal qualities that are beyond measure. There is no doubt...this is definitely an appealing debut from a promising new act."
- Jesusfreakhideout.com

"A catchy and fulfilling record with a new spin on rock is just what I needed to hear."
- Skyline Press

"A Dream too Late perfectly blends melodic vocals with dynamic rock attitude and intricate programming."
- On Course

Upcoming Tour Dates:
12/1 – Seattle, WA
12/2 – Tacoma, WA
12/3 – Portland, OR
12/4 – Eugene, OR
12/5 – Medford, OR
12/6 – Boise, ID
12/7 – Spokane, WA

"A Dream Too Late are worth your time"
- Die Shellsuit Die
adreamtoolate.com

Family Force 5 Moves About On Stage ... Quite A Bit!
Family Force 5 is selling out venues on their 30-city Dance, Rawr, Dance Tour with bands Jonezetta and The Secret Handshake, as well as making wishes come true by partnering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation at the recent Hollywood, CA show where a terminally ill fan and his band got the chance to open up for Family Force 5. Sold-out venues to date include stops in the Albuquerque, NM, both the Austin and Dallas, TX shows as well as Cinninatti, OH, and San Diego and Anaheim, CA. The Austin show brought out more fans than the venue could accommodate with 374 in attendance and over 200 fans turned away. With amazing turnouts on tour however, it was a Make-A-Wish Foundation “Wish Child” who marked the October 18th show as most memorable. Paul, a 16 year old with cystic fibrosis, along with his band Heroes For Villains was enlisted to play several songs at Hollywood’s Knitting Factory Dance, Rawr, Dance tour stop. In addition to Paul’s wish to open for his favorite band, he and his mates were also able to spend some hang time with Family Force 5 and learn more about the music industry. Another facet to the Dance, Rawr, Dance Tour includes a sponsorship by Outerlight Entertainment partners Family Force with Jedidiah Clothing and the Hope Collection, a series of t-shirts designed to benefit various humanitarian organizations and their causes. Tour attendees who purchase a “special edition” t-shirt help support various social aid affiliates, with $5.00 from every sale going to the Hope Collection charities. The special edition shirt also includes a Gotee Records digital artist sampler in conjunction with start-up digital service DiscRevolt. (jedidiahusa.com) To date the Hope Collection has sold over 400 t-shirts on the tour run. Since their debut 2006 release Business Up Front, Party In The Back, Family Force 5 has been catapulted onto the music scene with a performance on CBS TV’s The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson, two performances on DIRECTV’s CD USA, and music video play on MTVU.com. The band has also racked up two #1 rock radio hits “Replace Me” and “Love Addict” at Christian radio. Family Force tours over 200 dates a year including 2006’s Journeys Backyard BBQ Tour, 2007’s Van’s Warped Tour and dates with TobyMac. Led by front man and guitarist Solomon Olds (aka Soul Glow Activator), Family Force 5 includes Solomon’s two brothers Jacob Olds (aka Crouton) on drums/vocal, and his twin Joshua Olds (aka Fatty) on bass/vocals. The force of five is rounded out by Nathan Currin (aka Nadaddy) on keyboard and Derek Mount (aka Chap Stique) on guitar. The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Born in 1980 when a group of caring volunteers helped a young boy fulfill his dream of becoming a police officer, the Foundation is now the largest wish-granting charity in the world, with 67 chapters in the United States and its territories. With the help of generous donors and more than 25,000 volunteers, the Make-A-Wish Foundation grants a wish every 41 minutes and has granted more than 153,000 wishes in the U.S. since inception. For more information about the Make-A-Wish Foundation, visit www.wish.org and discover how you can share the power of a wish®.
UPCOMING DANCE RAWR DANCE TOUR DATES:
11/13/07 - Charlotte, NC - Amos' Southend
11/14/07 - Nashville, TN - Rcktwn
11/15/07 - Atlanta, GA - Coca Cola Roxy Theatre
11/16/07 - Jacksonville, FL - Murray Hill Theatre

The Myriad Is Doing Itc
In September 2007, MTV2 announced KOCH/ Kosmos’ Seattle based band The Myriad as a top contender for the title of “MTV2 Dew Circuit Breakout.” Chosen out of over 4000 bands in the U.S. to be one of the 12 finalists, The Myriad quickly gained public attention and fan approval. With hundreds of thousands of votes in this week, The Myriad is currently positioned as one of the top six contenders and is headed to the next round of voting to become one of three bands that will play live on-air in New York City. As a top 6 finalist, The Myriad will receive a visit from MTV crews in their hometown and filmed in action for segments on air! With top 6 status, The Myriad is also this week’s “heavy hitter,” acquiring the most votes for the week, earning them extra spins during commercial breaks. MTV2 has opened the online voting polls once again, where the public will determine the final three bands. Myriad fans can vote up to 100 times a day from now until November 25 at dewcircuitbreakout.com The Top 3 Finalists that make the cut will be flown to New York City to perform during the Dew Circuit Breakout Finale, LIVE from Times Square, where the grand prize winner will be announced. The winning band will be thrown back on stage to star in their very first MTV music video for rotation on MTV and MTV2, and will be strongly considered for MTV's Artist Of The Week. In addition, they'll grab some air time on Discover & Download and Unleashed, where the latest, most anticipated, most cutting-edge work from the biggest players in rock and hip hop premiere on MTV2. In addition to their recent success in the Dew Circuit Breakout, the bands video "Product Placement" is currently being aired on MTV2 as their "Video of the Week." The Myriad filmed the Mountain Dew Party Video on tour from the bus with guys from The David Crowder Band and featured more than 200 Mountain Dew drinks during the video shoot. The song backing the video is "A Thousand Winters Melting" which is The Myriad’s current radio single. The Myriad released their debut EP, Prelude To Arrows, on October 9. Drawing rave reviews from both fans and critics worldwide, The Myriad’s music covers a diverse panorama, evoking comparisons to The Verve, Radiohead and The Who. In their quick emergence, the band has already performed with Blindside, Mute Math and The Beautiful Mistake. The Myriad's first full length record, You Can't Trust a Ladder was featured as a Staff Favorite on iTunes (alongside the White Stripes and the Foo Fighters) and MTV has used songs from the record for The Real World Denver show. Backed by a new label and armed with a hotly-anticipated new record, 2008 promises to be a landmark year for The Myriad. Their highly-anticipated 2008 project, With Arrows, With Poise, was recently mixed at Hansa Studios in Berlin, Germany by Michael Ilbert (The Cardigans, Kent, The Hives) and mastered at historic Abbey Road Studios in London, England by Adam Nunn (Air, Radiohead, Franz Ferdinand, George Martin, Mogwai). Kosmos, a division of KOCH Entertainment--the largest independent distributor of music in the world will release With Arrows, With Poise, on March 4, 2008. Currently on a sold-out national tour with The David Crowder Band, The Myriad is made up of Jeremy Edwardson, John Roger Schofield, Steven Tracy, Jonathan Young and Randy Miller. What's funny is the band was telling me about this early on the David Crowder Band Tour, and they initially didn't know anything about this contest, which they were entered into by someone else. That'd be so rad if they won.

Czech Metal Rules, Baby!
Kreyson begins work on new album, touring Europe and beyond. The worldwide known queen of metal music, Doro Pesch, came to the Czech Republic, namely to the recording studio of Kreyson in Prague. After having heard the song called „Deep in the Night“ / KREYSON, or, its Czech version, the famous mega-hit „Čarovná noc“, Doro Pesch expressed her interest in recording a common duet. She was enchanted by the song itself, and also by Láda Křížek’s singing. Thus nothing stood in the way for those singing stars to meet each other. They agreed on performing together, and for the first time the common duet was sung on the occasion of the annual awards of the Academy of Popular Music – ANDĚL (Angel) ALIANZ 2006 in ČEZ Arena in Ostrava in March. To Lada’s great surprise, the idea to continue this cooperation came from the side of DORO. According to her words, it would be a great loss if fans in the rest of the world were denied such a great song as „Deep in the Night“ is. She herself suggested that the duet should be recorded. DORO is still a very busy and much desired singer, and so it is quite difficult to find a free day in her schedule. The joint work took place after her return from the USA, and right before the beginning of her European tour. The last hot news is a concert tour of Europe Kreyson has been preparing along with the worldwide known metal queen Doro Pesch, called „Christmas Europe Tour 2007“. In the history of Czech metal music, Kreyson is most likely the very first group from the Czech Republic that has been invited to participate in a tour of Europe. Concerts will take place in Switzerland, Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic in December. Two concerts in Germany will be performed also along with the American legendary group called W.A.S.P.. A special guest at the concert in Česke Budějovice will be a group called Seven, and in Uhersky Brod a group called Empire. Following the link below you can find a video-invitation to the prepared tour: ladakrizek.com
Praise for Kreyson:
As the first group Kreyson entered the stage at 8 p.m. sharp. I did not know any of their compositions, and because they are Czechs, I did not even expect any great experience from their performance. However, what a surprise!!! Ladies and gentlemen, what they performed there was such a warming that I’m still in a shock from that up to now. Classic metal in the style of Iron Maiden, Helloween, or Judas Priest, with dominant singing and phenomenal melodies of the atmosphere of the 1980's and the beginning of the 1990's. The group utterly shocked the audience, and I did not mind at all that it sang in Czech – I did not consider it funny. The audience went mad because, as it seems, Kreyson is a cult group in their geographic location. Right after the performance I wanted to buy their CD, but their stall was closed already.
To watch a recording of the performance of KREYSON playing before SCORPIONS – 16th June 2007 Bratislava: youtube.com

Larry Norman To Perform Concert In February
Larry will perform a concert in the Old Church in Portland, Oregon Friday February 1st 2008. He will be backed up by his brother Charlie's band, Guards Of Metropolis. Songs will be performed from all of his records such as "Only Visiting This Planet", In Another Land", "Upon This Rock", "So Long Ago The Garden", "Tourniquet" and "Home At Last" to name a few. This is a small venue with maximum capacity at 300 people so get your tickets early. Tickets are $25 each and $50 each for the Golden Circle tickets. Only Golden Circle ticket holders have assigned seating, all others are first come, first served. Tickets are ONLY available for sale through the web-site and at the door, the day of the event. For more info,
check out larrynorman.com.

Skillet Sells Over A Quarter Million In Sales
In follow-up to two No. 1 singles, “Rebirthing” and “The Last Night,” Lava/Atlantic/Ardent/INO band SKILLET is now celebrating their third and fourth consecutive #1 singles as “The Older I Get” takes over the top spot on Christian CHR (R&R/CRW) and “Comatose” places No. 1 for the second week in a row on Rock (R&R and CRW) radio this week. With COMATOSE selling a fast and furious quarter of a million units since releasing last fall, the project continues to top all previous sales records. To offer fans something special to show their appreciation, Skillet will release the COMATOSE CD/DVD Deluxe edition on December 26, 2007. Along with new cover art (attached) and the full COMATOSE CD, the deluxe edition will also feature:
1 BRAND NEW studio track, “Live Free”
5 acoustic tracks:
- “Rebirthing”
- ”Yours to Hold”
- “The Older I Get”
- “Whispers In The Dark”
3 music videos (“Rebirthing”, “Whispers in the Dark”, “Looking for Angels”)
Behind the scenes video - making of the record
FREE Wallpaper
FREE Ringtone -“Falling Inside the Black”

Skillet is just wrapped up fall tour dates opening for Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace, and after the first of the year will hit the road again as part of the Winter Jam tour, hitting the following cities:
Winter Jam Tour Schedule: (All dates subject to change)
January 10 Johnson City, TN Freedom Hall
January 11 Chattanooga, TN McKenzie Arena
January 12 Roanoke, VA Roanoke Civic Center
January 13 Charlotte, NC Bobcat Arena
January 18 Tampa, FL Sun Dome Arena
January 19 Orlando, FL UCF Arena
January 24 Normal, IL Redbird Arena
January 25 Columbus, OH Schottestein Center
January 26 Cincinnati, OH Cincinnati Gardens
January 27 St. Charles, MO Family Arena
January 31 Evansville, IN Roberts Stadium
February 1 Little Rock, AR Alltell Arena
February 2 Birmingham, AL BJCC Arena
February 7 Augusta, GA James Brown Arena
February 8 Jacksonville, FL Memorial Coliseum
February 9 Mobile, AL The Mitchell Center
February 10 Tupelo, MS Bancorp South Center
February 15 Greenville, SC The Bi-Lo Center
February 16 Greensboro, NC Greensboro Coliseum
February 17 Norfolk, VA Constant Convocation Center
February 22 Columbia, SC The Colonial Center
February 23 Jackson, MS MS Coliseum
February 24 Southaven, MS DeSoto Civic Center
February 28 Oklahoma City, OK The Ford Center
February 29 Tulsa, OK Mabee Center
March 1 Wichita, KS Charles Koch Arena
March 2 Colorado Springs, CO World Arena
March 6 Lexington, KY Rupp Arena
March 7 Ft. Wayne, IN Allen County Memorial Coliseum
March 8 Knoxville, TN Thompson Boling Arena
March 9 E. Lansing, MI The Breslin Center
March 13 Huntington, WV Big Sandy Superstore Arena
March 14 Fayetteville, NC Crown Coliseum
March 15 Atlanta, GA Phillips Arena
March 16 Nashville, TN The Sommet Center

Skillet’s explosive 2006 Lava/Atlantic/Ardent/INO Records release, Comatose follows 2004’s Collide, which launched the group into the public eye and garnered the band a prestigious Grammy Award nomination. A critical fave, Comatose has become their best-selling project to date, doubling the sales of Collide in half the time. In follow up to packed out club shows on their own as well as with Flyleaf in the spring, and performances before summer festival crowds, this fall Skillet opened for mainstream rockers Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace In the process of becoming one of the hardest working, most rocking, and broadly appealing acts of its generation, radio welcomed Comatose with open arms, as the first single, “Rebirthing” spent seven-weeks at No.1 on Christian Rock. Their second single, “The Last Night,” also took the top spot, this time at both Rock and CHR (CRW/R&R), while their latest single, “The Older I Get” (CHR/Rock) has become their third consecutive No. 1 single.

The Burial Signs With Sancrosant Records
Sancrosant Records proudly announces the inclusion of it's newest family member to it's growing roster of artists. Hailing from South Bend, Indiana, The Burial is a rising force in a new wave of mid-west American metal. Having recently played the 2007 Cornerstone Festival and armed with a new vocalist, The Burial has their eyes on a busy touring schedule and is writing new material for their label debut due out in early 2008. "This is an excellent, excellent band" says Tony Padilla, guitarist for Remembrance and head of Sancrosanct Records' A&R Department. "Faith wise the band is rock solid. They have the right attitude and dedication we are looking for."

7,000 Relient K Fans Rock Out In Houston
Relient K fans are coming out in droves as the platinum-selling band, along with fellow platinum rockers and co-headliner Switchfoot, continues on their 30-city Appetite For Construction fall tour. The momentum around the tour is only added to as Relient K’s first full-length Christmas CD Let It Snow…Let It Reindeer recently hit streets on October 23rd, as well as a recent Canadian Covenant Award win for “Best Modern Rock/Alternative Song” with the song “Must Have Done Something Right.” With nearly half the dates under the tour belt already, attendance numbers have topped off so far with 6,817 fans coming out to the Houston, TX show. Figures for other recent shows included 3,844 in Grand Rapids, MI, 3,633 in St Paul, MN, and 3,206 in Grand Prairie, TX. The bands played for over 2,000 people at shows in Fargo, ND, Evansville, IN, and Cedar Falls, IA as well. Fans can also anticipate the November 19th announcement of the winner in McDonald’s current contest promotion, in which Relient K is a nominee. The winning music act will have their music featured in the fast food chain’s TV commercial, as well as their image plastered on over 300 million french fry containers worldwide. Relient K’s Five Score And Seven Years Ago debuted at #6 on The Billboard 200 earlier this year, becoming the band’s highest charting album to date and receiving rave reviews. “Five Score features irresistible pop-punk hooks and glorious Beach Boys-style harmonies, all building to an 11-minute mini-rock opera that recalls – and equals – The Who’s ‘A Quick One While He’s Away,’” said USA Today while Alternative Press praised the album’s “radio-ready power pop goodness.”
Check out the band’s official website at relientk.com

Mike Peters Of The Alarm Rocks On Mt. Everest
Mike Peters of The Alarm along with Glen Tilbrook of Squeeze, Slim Jim Phantom of The Stray Cats and trekkers who have survived cancer have climbed Mt. Everest and given a concert on behalf of the Love Hope Foundation at the highest point on the earth -- Mount Everest -- and make history! Click on the link below and then click on the television to see a video of Mike Peters and trekkers playing the "Love Hope Strength" song on top of Mt. Everest. Note the prayer banners flying around them. Everest Rocks

Power of the Cross Festival Holds Second Fest
November 8, 2007 became an historic day when Mayor Wynn proclaimed it the Power of the Cross Festival Day in Austin, Texas. Fred Thomas performed"Mighty is the Power of The Cross" in the Austin City Chambers office in front of all City Council Members and we got to share a brief message on why the festival is so important to our city. The festival will take place on Saturday, November 17th from 11am -10 PM. This historic event has captured on video tape POTCfestival.org
Festival Survival Details
How To Volunteer:
We need more help in the Pit Crew unloading zone, prayer tent, and other areas. Please check in with the volunteers coordinator at the
Cross Festival Headquarters located by the merchandise tent. There are all kinds of two hour hour and all four hour shifts get a free volunteers shirt.
When, Where, What, Free Food:
When-Saturday, November 17th, 2007. The festival begins at 11:30 am and ends at 10 PM. The first 1.5 hours of the festival begins with a bang by featuring artist who really appeal to the youth. Young people will fest on the positive message offered by Holy Hip Hop, Rap, Reggatone and Rock. Come early to support the local bands and stay late to hear great bands from all over the USA.
Where- Auditorium Shores located at 920 W. Riverside Dr, AUstin TX.
What- This FREE event will showcase some of the best artist from all over the country and some local artist. You deserve a day off so bring a folding chair and blankets and sit back and relax while enjoying of all kinds of cutting edge styles including Fusion, Reggatone, Rock, Holy Hip Hop, Rap, Pop, Praise & Worship. The last hour will shift into the finale which be an intimate personal experience made up of the singer/songwriters playing acoustical songs who performed earlier in the day and a few new artist who have travel to Austin from from far away just to sing two songs each to this year audience.
Free Food - Dr. Jess Bielby president of Gospel Associates and Kansas Food 4 Life along with Dr. Don Matison of Life Builders and Pastor Joe Wingo of Angel Food Ministries are joining forces to supply a tractor trailer load of food to be given away to families at no cost. "We want to demonstrate Christ by giving people quality food products that they can take home and prepare for their family. We suggest that they bring a bag or box to carry it home", said Bielby. The Cross Festival is still working out the details on how we are going to distribute the food. For now, we suggest family's in need bring a box or bag and come early to the festival and pick up a ticket with a number on it that will enable you to receive your portion during the intervals that food is handed out during the day on a first come first serve basis using the ticket numbers. This is our first time doing something on this big of a scale in Austin so we are not sure what the need will be. We hope to meet all the needs and that other food companies will step forward too.
Prayer Request to be released in helium balloons:
Fill out your prayer request at the Cross Festival Headquarters Table. They will be released throughout the day over our city. Volunteers will also be in the prayer tent if you would like
someone to pray for you.

©2007 HM Magazine - All Rights Reserved

More news from last week:

Still Remains Cooking Up
Young Michigan rockers Still Remains are set to tape an exclusive “Cooking With Church” series for national food chain Qdoba Mexican Grill in the band’s home state this weekend. The mock cooking show, which was created by the always energetic six-piece, showcases the band’s guitarist/vocalist Mike Church. Church, who is an avid chef, exposes his superior culinary skills with the help of his sous chefs (the Still Remains crew, naturally) and all of the shenanigans that go along with them. The band has been asked to tape 6 episodes of Cooking With Church, already a hit series on YouTube with over 71,000 views for Qdoba Mexican Grill. Church will be using Qdoba’s always fresh and tasty ingredients and work his magic to create one damn fine burrito. Still Remains are asking fans to come out and be a part of the taping during the taste test portion of the shoot. To get a FREE Qdoba burrito and be a part of cooking show history, fans will need to be one of the first 20 people to arrive at the store at 9:30pm on Saturday, November 3rd (address below). The 20 lucky fans will get to indulge in a one-of-a-kind burrito with a Church twist and will be filmed for the ‘taste test’ segment of the show. The exclusive series will air in the upcoming month on Qdoba’s and the band’s web properties. The seven-part first season of “Cooking With Church” can be viewed in its entirety at youtube.com/stillremains.
What: Qdoba “Cooking With Church” Taping
Where: Qdoba, 3225 Alpine Ave, Walker, MI 48544
When: Saturday, November 3rd @ 9:30pm

Skillet Joins Winter Jam Tour
The Winter Jam Tour Spectacular, Christian music’s largest annual musical tour, announced its 35 city itinerary for 2008, featuring one of its most prestigious artist line-ups ever. As of this month, all four of NewSong’s guests are currently in the top 40 national sales as reported by Neilson’s SoundScan. The 2008 line-up showcases musical styles ranging from worship to rock to pop featuring multi Platinum selling MercyMe, sibling rock trio BarlowGirl, seasoned rockers Skillet, American Idol’s Mandisa. The 10-week tour launches January 10, 2008 in Johnson City, TN, and will conclude at the Sommet Center in Nashville, TN on March 16th hitting 19 states along the way. Grammy-nominated and Dove Award-winning, NewSong will host the high-energy event for the 13th consecutive year, which will feature special guest speaker Tony Nolan and the Xtreme sports Real Encounter BMX/Skate Team. The Premier Group’s Roy Morgan, co-producer of the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular with Celerity Entertainment, comments, “Each year we’ve been pressed to outdo the previous tour, and we could not be more pleased with this amazing collection of today’s top Christian artists. We’re thrilled that all five of 2008’s ‘lights-down’ artists have had significant mainstream radio and media exposure, helping Winter Jam reach its goals of impacting the world through local church ministries.” Vince Wilcox, president of Celerity Entertainment, affirmed that Holt International, the world’s leader in child adoption and relocation services, will once again be a sponsor of Winter Jam 2008, along with the Wayne E. Bailey Produce Company. HearItFirst.com is back as a sponsor and will be giving out free download cards to the first 500 in line each night. Dave Ramsey's "Generation Change" student finance curriculum is also a new sponsor this year. Wilcox also announced a landmark partnership for 2008: “The Word Label Group Pre-Jam Party featuring pureNRG and Group 1 Crew.” Co-sponsored by media giants Fox Faith and Word Label Group, this event begins forty minutes before the official start of the show and will feature acclaimed pop trio Group 1 Crew and “tween” sensations pureNRG. For more information, please visit jamtour.com. Winter Jam 2008 follows the highly successful 2007 tour, which landed in Pollstar’s Top 10 Winter Tours surpassing artists like Nickelback, Red Hot Chili Peppers and John Mayer. WJ '07 averaged over 8,000 people each night with select shows having more than 10,000 in attendance. The 2007 Tour had total turnout of more than 275,000. Excited to reach the masses during Winter Jam 2008, BarlowGirl shares, “We are so excited about the ministry that will take place during the tour. Getting to be a part of this tour is such an honor for us girls. We have heard from so my of our friends that have been a part in the past saying that the crowds are truly awesome.” Also thrilled to be a part of the Winter Jam tour, Skillet lead singer John Cooper remarks, “We’ve heard great things about Winter Jam and are really excited to be a part of it this coming year. Skillet loves to rock, and look forward to having a blast with audiences throughout the country on this tour.”
Tour Schedule: (All dates subject to change)
January 10 Johnson City, TN Freedom Hall
January 11 Chattanooga, TN McKenzie Arena
January 12 Roanoke, VA Roanoke Civic Center
January 13 Charlotte, NC Bobcat Arena
January 18 Tampa, FL Sun Dome Arena
January 19 Orlando, FL UCF Arena
January 24 Normal, IL Redbird Arena
January 25 Columbus, OH Schottestein Center
January 26 Cincinnati, OH Cincinnati Gardens
January 27 St. Charles, MO Family Arena
January 31 Evansville, IN Roberts Stadium
February 1 Little Rock, AR Alltell Arena
February 2 Birmingham, AL BJCC Arena
February 7 Augusta, GA James Brown Arena
February 8 Jacksonville, FL Memorial Coliseum
February 9 Mobile, AL The Mitchell Center
February 10 Tupelo, MS Bancorp South Center
February 15 Greenville, SC The Bi-Lo Center
February 16 Greensboro, NC Greensboro Coliseum
February 17 Norfolk, VA Constant Convocation Center
February 22 Columbia, SC The Colonial Center
February 23 Jackson, MS MS Coliseum
February 24 Southaven, MS DeSoto Civic Center
February 28 Oklahoma City, OK The Ford Center
February 29 Tulsa, OK Mabee Center
March 1 Wichita, KS Charles Koch Arena
March 2 Colorado Springs, CO World Arena
March 6 Lexington, KY Rupp Arena
March 7 Ft. Wayne, IN Allen County Memorial Coliseum
March 8 Knoxville, TN Thompson Boling Arena
March 9 E. Lansing, MI The Breslin Center
March 13 Huntington, WV Big Sandy Superstore Arena
March 14 Fayetteville, NC Crown Coliseum
March 15 Atlanta, GA Phillips Arena
March 16 Nashville, TN The Sommet Center

The Power Of The Cross Festival Holds Its Second...
November 8, 2007 will be proclaimed Power of the Cross Festival Day by Austin, Texas Mayor, Will Wynn. How's that for cool publicity? For more information, go to the festival's website, here.

Phil Keaggy Inducted Into Gospel Music Hall Of Fame
Legendary guitarist and singer/songwriter Phil Keaggy joined the Statler Brothers, Larnelle Harris, the Winans and Joe Moscheo as the newest inductees into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame at the October 29, 2007 ceremony in Nashville, Tenn. At the ceremony, Keaggy was recognized for his 30+ year career in music, with his friends and past collaborators on hand for special remembrances and tributes. Christian artists Scott Dente (Out of the Grey) and Wes King, along with Keaggy's son Ian, performed a special musical homage to Keaggy, while Tommy Coomes (guitarist/singer for the pioneer Christian rock band Love Song and frontman for the Tommy Coomes Band) and Jason Truby (former guitarist for P.O.D.) shared memories and stories about the guitar virtuoso. One of the world's and Christian music's most beloved master musicians, Phil Keaggy has enjoyed immense success over his career. Having first entered the music scene as the co-founder and guitarist for '70s power group Glass Harp, Keaggy has since released close to 50 albums and has made appearances on countless others. Widely recognized for his phenomenal guitar playing as well as his vocal and songwriting prowess, he has received numerous accolades and awards for his music, including seven Dove Awards and a GRAMMY nomination. Keaggy continues to sell out concerts all over the US with his ever-changing style, ranging from rock 'n' roll to fully orchestrated instrumental compositions. Keaggy is gearing up for the release of his newest instrumental project, The Song Within, releasing November 6, 2007, on Autumn Records. When it comes to expressing the song within, few musicians of any genre, age or instrument have been as true to themselves and their art as Keaggy. On The Song Within, Keaggy uses his command of his art to communicate rather than dazzle. The result is a project that is imminently accessible and radiantly brilliant. Keaggy consciously created songs with his considerable fan base in mind. Newer initiates will be amazed with the deft, apparently effortless, artistry of this 16-song collection, while older fans will be thrilled by the myriad of styles and influences that combine to make Keaggy's work impossible to categorize and equally impossible to mistake. Phil Keaggy's The Song Within will be available from Autumn Records/Christian Network International. For more information, visit autumnrecords.com.

New Demon Hunter Album Hits Next Week
The new Demon Hunter album, "Storm The Gates Of Hell," is quite excellent. It's coming out in three formats: The Limited Deluxe Edition; The Special Edition; and the standard edition. The Limited Deluxe Edition features: DVD with extended footage apart from the Special Edition; Two bonus songs (“No Reason To Exist” & “Grand Finale”); Exclusive limited packaging including large format booklet with exclusive studio photos, lyrics, liner notes and more; Exclusive band postcard set; Rare Demon Hunter necklace with Skull Horn pendant; and a Demon Hunter sticker. The "Storm The Gates Of Hell" Special Edition features: DVD with extended footage apart from the special edition; Two bonus songs (“No Reason To Exist” & “Grand Finale”); and special packaging. As a consistent listen, I think it's this editor's favorite Demon Hunter album thus far. You can hear one of their new songs now on their myspace page. A video from the album, "Fading Away" is now airing on Headbanger's Ball. The band also has their own YouTube channel. Lots of cool DH stuff to check out, huh?

Inhabited Links Up With Indie Label 7 Spin Music
Female-fronted rock band Inhabited finds a new home at burgeoning indie label 7 Spin Music. The group is putting the finishing touches on its sophomore release, LOVE, releasing through 7 Spin Music on Feb. 26. Comprising Sara Acker (vocals), Marcus Acker (guitar), and Charlie Harper (drums), Houston-based Inhabited exploded onto the Christian music scene four years ago with its independent project Innerview. The band set a whole new standard for indie success, claiming a Top 20 Christian Hit Radio single with “Rescue Me.” The song also made Christian Rock radio’s Top 10. Inhabited released its debut label project, Revolution, with Fervent Records in 2005. Revolution earned rave reviews from media who hailed frontwoman Sara’s strong vocals, formidable stage presence and genuine heart for youth. The group steadily grew its loyal fan base, while touring alongside popular artists Todd Agnew, Starfield, By The Tree and Jonah33. Today Inhabited continues to re-invent itself, always on the cutting edge of sound and style. Peter Khosla, president of 7 Spin Music comments, “The quality that most impressed me about Inhabited is its sincere desire to impact youth. The group is also musically talented and works extremely hard at its ministry. The band is an excellent fit with what we’re trying to cultivate here at 7 Spin.” Sara Acker is also excited: “We are so happy to be at 7 Spin and are excited that they aren’t afraid to be bold and think outside the box. They have already been a blessing, and I’m stoked we’re teaming together to get LOVE to the masses!” Inhabited’s national sophomore project, LOVE, will be produced by industry veteran Monroe Jones (Jackson Browne, David Crosby, Third Day). In stores Feb. 26, the album’s first radio single, “Hush,” written and produced by Marcus and Sara Acker, is currently at No. 22 on Christian Hit Radio. Additional details on the record are forthcoming. Inhabited is also on the SHOUTfest tour this fall. For an updated tour itinerary or for more information on the band, visit: inhabitedtheband.com. Based out of Valparaiso, Ind., 7 Spin Music was formed in 2004 by Peter Khosla. The independent label is part of a family of music companies that includes booking, management, and publishing. Other 7 Spin Music artists include Red Umbrella, All Star United, Hello Kelly, Sevenglory, and Heath McNease. 7 Spin Music releases are distributed by Provident-Integrity Distribution and general market distribution is through Sony-BMG. For more information, visit 7spinmusic.com.

High Flight Society Blogs At hmmag.com
As part of its place on the Southern Hospitality Tour with Disciple, Spoken, and The Wedding, High Flight Society has partnered with HM Magazine for an exclusive online tour contest (hfsrock.com/contest) and Tour Blog at hmmag.com. High Flight Society confirmed to cover the Southern Hospitality Tour with exclusive video blog series for HearItFirst.com. They've also got special features confirmed for band on MyCCM.org and CMCentral.com next month. Their music is to be distributed to youth pastors/workers at Youth Specialties' National Youth Workers Convention in Atlanta (Nov. 16-19)
Southern Hospitality Tour w/ Disciple, Spoken, and The Wedding
Nov. 2 - Joplin, MO
Nov. 3 - Broken Arrow, OK
Nov. 4 - Lafayette, LA
Nov. 6 - Jacksonville, FL
Nov. 8 - Homestead, FL
Nov. 9 - Lakeland, FL
Nov. 10 - Montgomery, AL
Nov. 13 - Linthicum, MD
Nov. 15 - Barnegat, NJ
Nov. 16 - Cleveland, OH
Nov. 17 - Lansdale, PA
Nov. 18 - Manheim, PA

The Devil Wears Prada Premiere Video For "Hey John..."
The Devil Wears Prada are continuing their media onslaught with the premiere of their new video for Hey John, What’s Your Name Again? The video will make it’s worldwide debut on the Headbangers Ball Blog on Friday, November 2nd at headbangersblog.mtv.com. The video will make its TV debut the following night on the Headbangers Ball TV program on MTV2. Produced by Endeavor Media who have also done videos for artists such as August Burns Red, Tokyo Rose and more, the video showcases the band’s live fury with members leaping across the stage, crossing each other in dizzying fashion and head banging to the nth degree. Having just released their sophomore full-length Plagues which quickly surpassed 30,000 scans in the U.S. buzz on the new album is blazing with a recent two page feature in Alternative Press and a full page feature in Revolver among others. The band’s music is possessed of equal parts slithering metal riffage meshed with plush rock passages, peppered with a barrage of synth sounds and harsh to melodic vocals. Plagues received a vocal assist by good friend Craig Owens of Chiodos who are taking The Devil Wears Prada through the month of November. Tour dates at: myspace.com/tdwp

Far-Less Get Praise
Brandon Welch, Jordan Powers, Mark Karsten, Joseph Powers, Elizabeth Pina, and Todd Turner - an innocent enough series of six random names; but when combined with each other, they represent the powerhouse rock and roll sextet from Virginia that is called Far-Less - true evidence that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. The band's sophomore album, A Toast To Bad Taste, boasts a complex sense of confidence, merging the dynamic elements of rock bands like Muse with the intelligence and finesse of Dredg and Brand New. Produced by Mike Green (Paramore, The Matches), A Toast To Bad Taste is the incisive testimony of a band reborn. With an astute knack for combining melody with crafty instrumentation and drawing inspiration from such 90's alternative bands such as Smashing Pumpkins and Soundgarden, Far-Less has yet again carved out its own unique place in the world of rock and roll. The end result is a seemingly timeless and artful album that will continue to distance the band from the dormant and unimaginative aesthetic of the vast majority of its peers. There is also a contest giving fans the opportunity to win prizes for spreading the word about the new record. Fans have the opportunity to score a Vestal Watch, a one-year subscription to AP Magazine or an autographed Far-Less poster from now until November 30, 2007. For more information on the contest, check out the Far-Less contest page at toothandnail.com

PRAISE FOR A TOAST TO BAD TASTE:
“Post-hardcore, indie rock, or whatever you’d like to call it, this band is on a mission to bring you relevant, powerful music...From humble beginnings in true DIY fashion, Far-Less has come into their own, pulling influences from the heyday of Smashing Pumpkins and Soundgarden, while drawing inspiration from Brand New, Muse and Dredge. Far-Less packs a punch of power, sensitivity, desperation, and hope into each track on this disc, it does nothing less than make you feel (and dance.)” - FMQB.com

“Building on the shoegazer foundation of stalwarts like Elliott and Hum and blending in the more active flair of Muse and the Receiving End Of Sirens, the group paint a moody and beautiful canvas of engaging atmospheric rock.” - Alternative Press

“Fan’s of epic guitar rock with obvious hardcore and metal underpinnings but no screaming will probably (bleep) themselves over this record. This isn’t a bloated disc of ‘one hit wonders’ but if you give it some quality face time there is wealth of truly stirring music to be discovered.” - Mammoth Press

“With sharp guitar work, drum work that will keep you tapping your feet, Brandon Welch’s unique vocals an the addition of Elizabeth Pina on the keyboards, Far-Less has gone above and beyond any expectations and creates an album that will keep growing on you with each listen.” - HM Magazine

CHECK OUT FAR-LESS ON TOUR:
11.02 Louisville, KY @ Uncle Pleasants *
11.03 Kent, OH @ The Barn *
11.04 Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg *
11.06 East Stroudsburg, PA @ Penn Monster Factory *
11.07 Lemoyne, PA @ The Championship *
11.08 Harrisonburg, VA @ Guzmans *
11.09 Danville, VA @ Plan B *
11.10 Arden, NC @ Graffiti Music Hall *
11.11 Columbia, SC @ New Brookland Tavern *
* with He Is Legend, Telescreen, Josh Moore

The Glorious Unseen Unleash Their Album
The Glorious Unseen has a fancy e-card to check out. You can listen to songs from the album, read up on the latest news, check out tour dates, download buddy icons, banners, watch the video and more! Check it out now here! They've also got something going on at YouTube, with a little video for "Hear our Prayers."

New Fireflight Song Debuts On NBC
Brand new music from female-led rock band Fireflight debuted last week on NBC with the band’s yet unreleased track “Unbreakable” selected to air in promotion for the network’s new hit show “Bionic Woman.” The high-impact new song is the title track for Fireflight’s forthcoming sophomore album releasing spring 2008. Although the album is months from release at retail, the title track is an instant hit with NBC executives. Janine Kerr, NBC/Universal Director of Promo Services, says, “Once I heard ‘Unbreakable’ by Fireflight, it just made sense that NBC should use this song in ‘Bionic Woman’ promos. In fact, the whole CD is great. Buy it!” The single is scheduled for digital download at iTunes and other select digital channels in November. Fronted by female vocalist Dawn Richardson, Fireflight’s music has been featured on E! Entertainment’s “Style Network,” “America’s Funniest Home Videos,” and in music-video reels at both American Eagle and Journey’s stores across the country. Fireflight is currently on tour playing 140 shows this year, and has delivered two No. 1 rock singles “You Decide” and “Waiting” off its debut album. For more on Fireflight, please visit fireflightrock.com and myspace.com/fireflight.

Project 86 To Release Digital EP
Andrew Schwab reports that P86 "have a digital EP coming out 11/27 on iTunes. It's called 'The Kane Mutiny EP.' It has our first cover song ("Lucretia My Reflection" by The Sisters of Mercy), Two new tracks and two remixes from ...and The Rest Will Follow."

Kevin Max and Joanne Cash To Perform At Johnny Cash Flower Pickin' Festival
This November, Starkville, Mississippi will hold its first annual Johnny Cash Flower Pickin’ Festival, featuring a symbolic posthumous pardon to Cash, and a line-up of musicians closely associated with the late singer and American icon. The event will be held November 2-4, 2007, and will feature performances by Joanne Cash and Kevin Max, as well as Marty Stuart & the Fabulous Superlatives and others. Johnny Cash fans from around the world are expected to participate in a fascinating part of the Cash story–his experience at the "Starkville City Jail" and his lifelong story of redemption. Johnny Cash was arrested in Starkville, Mississippi, on May 11, 1965, for public drunkeness following a performance at Mississippi State University. He wrote the song, “Starkville City Jail,” and performed it at his legendary San Quentin State Prison concert on Feb. 24, 1969. Cash played at MSU again in 1970 and gave many of the officers involved with his arrest front row tickets to the performance. The Starkville community decided that it's time to formally recognize the depth and humanity of the Man in Black. As a result, the city of Starkville will issue a posthumous pardon to Cash. Kathy Cash Tittle, the second oldest of the four Cash daughters, will accept the pardon on her father's behalf during the pardoning ceremony on November 3rd. The pardon doesn’t suggest that anyone condoned Cash’s behavior. It symbolically recognizes Cash as an imperfect human who made mistakes but gained insight and wisdom by learning from his indiscretions. It’s not about Johnny Cash getting arrested; it’s about what his life symbolized to so many people — that no matter what happens in life, you can redeem yourself. The festival will close with a Redemption Service on Sunday, November 4th at 10:00am, featuring performances by Kevin Max and Johnny Cash’s sister, Joanne Cash, singing gospel music that Johnny Cash enjoyed. The service will be held at Lee Hall Auditorium on the MSU campus, and is free to the public. For more information on the Johnny Cash Flower Pickin’ Festival, visit the official website at pardonjohnnycash.com

©2007 HM Magazine - All Rights Reserved

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