News Update-- Week Ending 3-9
Pillar Tour Dates Announced
Grammy-nominated, rock band Pillar’s highly-anticipated, fifth studio album hits stores Feb. 26, 2008, just days after the start of the rock leaders 3-month, ninth headlining tour, the For the Love of the Game Tour, sponsored by World Vision, TVU and RadioU. Of Pillar’s release of For the Love of the Game, and the start of the band’s ninth headlining tour, Pillar lead vocalist, Rob Beckley, exclaims. “We are so glad to be back on the road, interacting with our fans, sharing hope to all through the love of Jesus Christ and performing these brand-new songs. With the release of For the Love of the Game, that is just further reason to be thankful and excited for what we love to do. It’s a great feeling to be carrying big production on this tour, and going back to our roots of putting on a great show for our fans. This really is the most fun we’ve had since Pillar began!” The full tour line-up is: Pillar, Building 429, Wavorly and introducing Brooke Barrettsmith. All dates are listed below and additional dates are still being added. To view and download the latest, band-created Pillar Tour Podcasts, go to pillartour.com.
Catch Pillar’s For the Love of the Game Tour in one of the following cities:
2/25 Sioux Falls, SD Southern Hills United Methodist Church
2/26 North Platte, NE Community Playhouse
2/28 Tulsa, OK The Otherside
2/29 Fort Worth, TX The Door
3/1 San Antonio, TX Tri-Point Club
3/2 Weatherford, TX The Church in Peaster
3/4 Joplin, MO The Foundry Music Theatre
3/5 Sherwood, AR Mercy’s Cross Church
3/7 Knoxville, TN Knoxville Christian Center
3/8 Prestonburg, KY Mountain Arts Center
3/10 Millvale, PA Mr. Small’s Theatre
3/13 Springfield, IL iWorship Center
3/14 Orion, MI The District Venue
3/16 Van Wert, OH Niswonger Performing Arts Center
4/2 Carlsbad, NM Walter Gerrells Performing Arts Center
4/3 Mesa, AZ Mesa First Assembly of God
4/4 Garden Grove, CA Crystal Cathedral Gym
4/5 Salinas, CA First Presbyterian Church
4/6 Merced, CA Yosemite Church
4/8 Vallejo, CA Church on the Hill
4/10 Medford, OR South Medford High Auditorium
4/11 Seattle, WA Royal Brougham Pavilion
4/12 Vancouver, WA The AC at Crossroads Community Church
4/13 Spokane, WA The Service Station
4/18 Greenwood Village, CO Orchard Road Christian Center
Expect The Impossible From Stellar Kart
Word Records’ award-winning band Stellar Kart inspires listeners to strive for greatness, taking comfort in God’s enduring faithfulness, on its third studio album, Expect The Impossible. The album hit stores on February 26, 2008. Among the project’s recurring themes is that of striving to achieve one’s best self in Christ. For instance, “Shine Like The Stars” calls believers to emanate God’s light in all circumstances, while “I Give Up” reflects the need for complete submission to Him. Also prevalent is the message of God’s faithfulness to those who love Him. “Sunshine” likens God to sunshine on a rainy day, and “Pray” urges listeners to “hold on to the promise that help is on the way.” “We talk with kids after concerts and are always hearing from youth leaders about the issues facing teens today,” says frontman Agee. “We wanted to write songs that would address such topics and encourage kids to expect God to work in their daily lives.” For additional information, visit stellarkart.com or myspace.com/stellarkart.
Oceana On Rise Vs Tragic Hero Tour
Election year madness erupts as two popular indie labels decide to take competition on the road with the Rise Vs Tragic Hero Tour. The tour which features Oceana (Rise), A Kiss For Jersey (Tragic Hero) headlining as well as A Different Breed Of Killer (Rise), Knives Exchanging Hands (Tragic Hero) and various other bands from each label jumping on in different markets. The VS in the title is purely good spirited competition as Rise Records honcho Craig Ericson and Tragic Hero boss, Tommy LaCombe are good friends. Speaking on the idea LaCombe says “Both Craig and I have had breakout bands and growing sales in the last couple of years. I frequently get e-mails from kids saying that they love both labels and it’s pretty obvious that kids who are fans of artists we’ve had on the label like Alesana, The Hottness and A Kiss From Jersey and also into The Devil Wears Prada, Dance Gavin Dance and Emarosa." The tour kicks off March 2nd in Tragic Hero’s hometown of Raleigh and new albums from each of the artists featured will drop in the next few months.
March 2 - Raleigh, NC @ The Brewery
March 3 - Greensboro, NC @ Club Remix
March 4 - Virginia Beach, VA @ Club Relevant
March 5 - Lynchburg, VA @ The Drowsy Poet
March 6 - Pittston, PA @ The Italian Citizens Club
March 7 - Richland, NJ @ Memories Lounge
March 8 – Connecticut @ TBA
March 9 - Rockville Centre, NY @ Vibe Lounge
March 10 - Providence, RI @ The Living Room
March 11 - Manchester, NH @ Rocko's
March 12 - Blairsville, PA @ The Corner Pocket
March 13 - Cleveland, OH @ The Jigsaw
March 14 - Romeo, MI @ The Static Age
March 15 - Marion, IN @ The 803
March 16 - Tinley Park, IL @ Mojoes Rock House
March 17 - Springfield, IL @ Black Sheep Cafe
March 18 - Springfield, MO @ Billiards
March 19 - Hutchinson, KS @ McGraw's
March 20 - Oklahoma City @ The Factory
March 21 - Little Rock, AR @ Vino's
March 22 - Mobile, AL @ The Mug
March 23 - Ocala, FL @ The Capitol
March 24 - Tampa, FL @ Transitions at Skatepark of Tampa
March 25 - Cocoa, FL @ The Anvil
March 26 - Orlando, FL @ The Dungeon
March 27 - Jacksonville, FL @ The Pit
March 28 - Statesboro, GA @ The Apex
March 29 - Greenville, SC @ The Unknown Venue
March 30 - Knoxville, TN @ Karns Community Center
New Album In Stores Now From Mychildren Mybride
Check out the new songs and e-card from Mychildren Mybride. Mychildren Mybride have posted the album version of their song, "On The Wings Of Integrity" up on their MySpace page. Stop by to check it out, as well as three other songs off of their new album, Unbreakable which is available in stores and online now! For the latest news and tour dates as well as buddy icons, wallpapers, music and more, swing by the Mychildren Mybride e-card. Share it with a friend to keep them up on all the MCMB happenings. Tour dates announced below:
Mar 3 - The Junction College Station, Texas
Mar 4 - Java Junction Houston, Texas
Mar 5 - House of Rock Bridge City, Texas
Mar 6 - Southport Community Center Southport, Florida
Mar 7 - 467 House Auburn, Alabama
Mar 8 - The Rock Show Stockbridge, Georgia
Mar 9 - Beta Bar Tallahassee, Florida
Mar 10 - Club Hollywood Augusta, Georgia
Mar 11 - The Warehouse East Ridge, Tennessee
Mar 14 - CD Release @ The Fish Music Hall McCalla, Alabama
Mar 15 - CD Release @ The Rock Huntsville, Alabama
Mar 25 - Park Place Teen Center New Philadelphia, Ohio
Mar 26 - Rockos Manchester, New Hampshire
with Unearth, Bury Your Dead, As Blood Runs Black
Mar 27 - Higher Ground So. Burlington, Vermont
Mar 28 - Water Street Music Hall Rochester, New York
Mar 29 - Headliners Toledo, Ohio
Mar 30 - The Intersection Grand Rapids, Michigan
Mar 31 - People’s Court Des Moines, Iowa
Apr 1 - Pops Sauget, Illinois
Apr 2 - Newport Music Hall Columbus, Ohio
Apr 3 - Rocketown Nashville, Tennessee
Apr 4 Valarium Knoxville, Tennessee
Apr 5 - Skatepark of Memphis Cordova, Tennessee
Apr 6 - Headliner’s Music Hall Louisville, Kentucky
Apr 8 - The Music Farm Charleston, South Carolina
Apr 9 - Soapbox Laundrolounge Wilmington, North Carolina
Apr 10 - The National Richmond, Virginia
May 3 - Meadowlands Sport Complex Rutherford, New Jersey
Aug 9 Camas, Washington
The Afters Rock Street Week
As their sophomore project, Never Going Back To OK hits retail outlets and digital domains worldwide, INO/Columbia Records’ band The Afters street week has been filled with a plethora of glittering reviews, viral video domination with “MySpace Girl” on YouTube, MySpace, Seventeen.com and more, as well as a No. 1 Christian CHR single with their title track. In addition, after only 48 hours of release, the project rocketed to No. 14 on iTunes® overall digital chart, and No. 4 on the digital Rock chart.
Harvest Earth Signs Letter To The Exiles
Harvest Earth Records is pleased to announce the signing of Long Island's Letter to the Exiles. The band features Erich Barto of Alove for Enemies (RIP), and their debut EP will be released later in the year through the label. To check out the band visit myspace.com/lettertotheexiles
Addison Road Hits Top 5
Addison Road garners top five success this week on the CHR Chart with “All That Matters” at No. 4 and climbing swiftly. The iTunes ® store often features a track to be highlighted as a free Discovery Download on the homepage for one week. INO Records’ pop/rock driven female-fronted band, Addison Road, received monstrous feedback when over 167,000 people downloaded their current single “All That Matters” from the March 18th self-titled release. For all things Addison Road, log onto addisonroad.com, or check out myspace.com/addisonroad.
PlayRadioPlay! On FUSE Oven Fresh
Check out the video for "Madi, Don't Leave" & be sure to vote for it on Oven Fresh! Oven Fresh airs weekdays at 2:30pm EST on FUSE, be sure to watch for it. Texas is releasing on March 18th, but you can pre-order it now at Newbury Comics and receive a signed cd. You can also enter to win two tickets to the Yellowcard, Spill Canvas, and PlayRadioPlay tour. Check the details here.
Tour with Yellowcard & Spill Canvas:
3/07 Salt Lake City, UT Avalon
3/08 Denver, CO Gothic
3/10 St. Paul, MN Station 4
3/11 Chicago, IL Metro
3/12 Lansing, MIMac's Bar
3/13 Detroit, MI Majestic Theater
3/14 Cleveland, OH House of Blues
3/15 New York, NY Irving Plaza
3/16 Boston, MA Middle East
3/17 Philadelphia, PA Trocadero
3/19 Baltimore, MD Recher
3/20 Greensboro, NC Green Street
3/21 Atlanta, GA Masquerade
3/22 Orlando, FL House of Blues
3/24 Tampa, FL State Theater
3/25 Ft. Lauderdale, FL Culture Room
3/26 Tallahassee, FL The Beta Bar
3/28 New Orleans, LA House of Blues
3/29 Austin, TX Emo's
3/30 Dallas, TX Granada Theater
3/31 Albuquerque, NM Sunshine Theater
4/03 Boise, ID Big Easy
4/04 Seattle, WA El Corazon
4/05 Portland, OR Hawthorne Theater
4/06 San Francisco, CA Great American Music Hall
4/08 Ventura, CA Ventura Theater
4/10 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues
4/11 San Diego, CA House of Blues
4/12 Los Angeles, CA House of Blues
4/13 Pomona, CA The Glass House
4/14 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theater
Denison Witmer Begins Recording A New Album
Almost three years have passed since the critical acclaim of Denison Witmer’s 2005 release Are You A Dreamer?. You may be wondering: What has he been doing with all of his time? When is he going to record another album? The answers are in. In the last few years, Denison has toured both the US and Europe four times, sharing the stage with the likes of Anathallo, Billy Bragg, Iron and Wine, Joanna Newsom, Low, Page France, Rainer Maria, Rosie Thomas, Sondre Leche, Sufjan Stevens, and Militia Group label-mates Lovedrug and Copeland. In early 2006, Denison joined his friends Rosie Thomas and Sufjan Stevens to record and co-produce Rosie’s latest LP These Friends of Mine (Sing-A-Long/Nettwerk). October 2006 brought with it the 10th anniversary of Denison’s debut album, Safe Away. The Militia Group re-released Safe Away as a double disc, repackaging it with new artwork and including the bonus EP Are You A Sleeper?. On November 4, 2006, Denison celebrated his thirtieth birthday by launching a charity website, happybirthdaydenison.com. The website, which features over thirty free songs, raises money for the non-profit organizations Partners In Health and Musicians on Call. In March 2007, Denison fulfilled a lifetime dream, buying his first home in Philadelphia, PA. After seven months and many trips to the local hardware store, Denison completely rehabbed his house and built his first dedicated home studio. Since the beginning of this year, Denison has been making demos and writing new songs in preparation for his seventh album. He is scheduled record this spring in Seattle, WA with producer and friend Blake Wescott (Pedro the Lion, Damien Jurado, The Posies). The album will feature many familiar faces, including Rosie Thomas and James McAlister (Denison’s Are You A Dreamer?, Sufjan Stevens’ Illinoise). Recording will begin at London Bridge Studios and end at Studio Litho (owned by Stone Gossard of Pearl Jam). Please visit Denison's website, denisonwitmer.com, for recording updates.
Win A Year Subscription To HM!!
William Stenner wants to give 10 people a free year subscription to HM! Just answer the following question: "What Band was William Stenner in between 1992-1994. The answer is in williamstenner.com find the answer and hit reply. First 10 replys will recieve a full year subscription of HM Magazine or a subscription renewal courtesy of William Stenner. William has also unlocked a bunch of songs for all that visit For Free Downloads, William does not want anyone responding to this contest leaving empty handed. William's music ranges from Grindcore to Pop Rock." (Winners will be posted on William's website)
Free Downloads From Indie Vision Music!
Indie Vision Music wants to give you free music! Check out indievisionmusic.com to download Fighting From the Ground Up Vol. 1, Summer Slam (2006) Vol. 1, and a free song from Ready the Way, Mendelson and Ocean is Theory. Free music is always cool!
Quick and the Dead Back Together?
It appears that Quick and the Dead have decided not to end their run as a band after all. They have reformed and are currently writing new material. The band has posted up a brand new demo to their myspace page for you to check out myspace.com/quickandthedead
BEC Recordings Signs Chris Taylor
BEC Recordings is thrilled to introduce newcomer Chris Taylor and his April 15th debut release Take Me Anywhere. This 27-year-old Floridian is thrilled to have found a label home at BEC and to release his deep worship-meets-progressive pop debut. Taylor’s music is about human wandering, God’s pursuit, and the conversations that develop. Raised in the beachfront town of Destin, Chris Taylor remembers an idyllic childhood made possible by hard-working parents who managed vacation rental properties. At the young age of 13, his mom brought him a guitar to cheer him up after a hard day at school. This was the beginning of a lifelong musical journey. After accepting Christ two years later, Chris began leading worship for his youth group followed by a trek to England after high school and college where he interned in worship ministry at Soul Survivor church. There he met worship leader and songwriter Matt Redman (“The Heart of Worship”) and was dramatically humbled by the authenticity of his faith. “I actually stopped leading worship for awhile after that experience,” he says. “It was great, but truth be told, I went there to get a pat on the back, to find value in what I was doing. Then I was so convicted by what I learned from Matt’s testimony. He had gone through such dark times, and I had just envied his success. So if it meant being quiet for the rest of my life, to even begin to approach that level of sincerity, I was ready to do it.” It was this time of silence that Chris began to dig into his songwriting and theology. He soon met producer Allen Salmon (Mute Math, Sanctus Real) and after a two-hour session he had recorded Take Me Anywhere, the title track and shivery pop cut layered with echoing harmonies. “That’s the song that took me anywhere,” laughs Taylor. “I have sung it at church many times, and now it’s the first radio single. The lyrics remind me of the men who met Jesus on the road to Emmaus. They weren’t looking for him at that moment, but after the encounter, their hearts were burning, and it changed the course of their lives.” It was after recording the title track that he found the partnership with BEC Recordings in Seattle. Stylistically, Chris is right when he says, “all these songs are worship songs.” Each one is made distinct by Taylor’s poetic imagery and a pure singing voice that one journalist praised for its “innate sensitivity.” Chris Taylor will be heading out on the Kutless Acoustic Tour beginning March 6th in Minneapolis, MN. For more info on Chris Taylor and his debut, go to: myspace.com/christaylorband
Finding Favour Joins Tonecrash Records
Tonecrash Records is pleased to announce the addition of Atlanta-based rock band, Finding Favour, to its label roster. The group’s self-titled debut, produced by label founder Barry Blair, is currently available as a digital release through iTunes and the Tonecrash Records website and can also be purchased at the band’s live performances. A street date to bookstores will come later this year. The foundation of Finding Favour was laid when vocalist Blake Neesmith and guitarist Allen Dukes began working together in their home church’s worship team. A short time later, bassist Dustin Daniels joined them, and eventually guitarist Ricky Dunn rounded out the group. Arising from a range of diverse influences such as blues, gospel, rock, and funk, the band masterfully commands their sound, speaking with authority both musically and lyrically, while inspiring the listener to reach for the unreachable. The band has played alongside several well-known Christian artists including Jeremy Camp, Jonah 33, and By The Tree. “We are so blessed to to sign on with a label that shares our integrity and love for God,” explains Neesmith. “I can't wait to see what God has in store for us. It's going to be an exciting ride!” Finding Favour’s first single, "Hear Them Breathe", is currently at radio and the foursome is gearing up to perform the song live as they travel throughout the Spring and Summer, making stops at festivals, churches and camps across the country. In addition, the band continues to lead worship at Cedar Crossing Church of God, their home church in southern Georgia. A ministry focused label, industry veteran Barry Blair announced the launch of Tonecrash in 2007 with the goal of developing and building careers for young independent artists. The label signed its debut artist, Two Empty Chairs, shortly after its launch and added Finding Favour to the roster in early 2008. Finding Favour is managed by Randy Maricle (Warren Barfield, Across the Sky, Palisades) of Maricle Management Group. “We are very excited about partnering in the ministry of Finding Favour,” comments Blair, producer and Tonecrash label head. “They have an incredible ministry that is reaching thousands of young people and we at Tonecrash Records are thrilled to help them advance that ministry into new places.” For more information about Finding Favor and their debut release, please visit Finding Favour online. Information about Tonecrash Records can be found on the label's website.
New Method On TV
New Method's songs "Temporary Tattoo", "All About The Love", and "Freefall" will be used in JCTV's television program Inspired Ambition. The show airs on Saturdays at 5 pm and Wednesdays at 2:30 am EST. The episode will be available on-line for viewing in the next week. For more New Method news go to newmethod.net and myspace.com/newmethodband
Bombworks Records Signs Sympathy
Bombworks Records is proud to announce that Canadian death metal phenom Sympathy is joining the label. Sympathy has been a force in the death metal underground for a long time now, consisting almost exclusively of front man Derek James From (Dharok). After recording several demos, Sympathy released a handful of releases on Dutch extreme label Fear Dark Records that were received with high regard by both the press and fans, and the band also recently released an EP on Norwegian label Momentum Scandinavia. Displaying his technical prowess, Dharok performed all of the instruments on his releases, including complex programmed drums that hardly sounded programmed, molding an impressive technical death metal soundscape with a sound all its own. Wanting to take things to the next level, Dharok has joined forces with monster guitarist Jeff Lewis (Abolishment of Hate, Mortification) and drummer Jim Austin (Into Eternity) to craft his most complex and interesting project yet. The new CD, titled Anagogic Tyranny, will feature 10 tracks of technical blackened death metal that is sure to set a new standard in the metal underground. Anagogic Tyranny will be available worldwide in mid-2008.
Sarah Kelly Performs At Oscar Party
With her third album Born To Worship set to release this April 1st, multi-GRAMMY-nominated recording artist Sarah Kelly recently took center stage as she performed at the 2008 Billboard Magazine and Children Uniting Nations Oscar Party in Beverly Hills, CA. Held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on February 24th, the Oscar party featured Kelly and band performing three songs for the event attendees. Actor Tommy Davidson (The Bernie Mac Show, Mad TV) introduced Kelly to the stage and afterwards she was complimented on her performance by recording artist Tiffany (80’s top hit “I Think We’re Alone Now”). Sarah’s upcoming April 1st musical installment, Born to Worship (Gotee) features 10 songs of what Kelly is calling “edgy, passionate worship” as it chronicles her own personal survival story from self-hate and abuse. Producer credits on Born To Worship go to Mitch Dane (Jars Of Clay, Bebo Norman) with Vance Powell (Martina McBride, Jars Of Clay) coming alongside as mix engineer. Daniel Huscroft also co-produced with Dane on the songs “Faithful Father” and “Amazing Grace”. For more information on Sarah Kelly check out her official website at sarahkelly.com.
CFRN Celebrates One Year Of Fellowship And Unity
6 anointed members of the Christian Female Rap Network (La’Toria, Elle ROC, Serenity, Regal, Cameron & Octavia Harris) traveled to Portland, Oregon to celebrate 1 yr. of fellowship and unity. In addition, they recorded their 1st CD together over the course of 3 days at Oregon's largest recording studio - Black Diamond. Blessings continued to fall as CFRN also performed that weekend at the 2nd Annual Youth Summit "It's Bigger Than Hip Hop" (special guest speaker: Professor Griff of Public Enemy). "This past year has been interesting for all of us and this month we come together to show God's gifts, God's glory and God's favor against all odds and certainly across all lines because none of us live in the same state." (Regal) CFRN believes in showing our transparency through music and testimony will bring healing and freedom to others. We are sharing our stories on the mic and on stage during this fellowship celebration. Whether it's freedom from depression, lust, homosexuality, pride, self-esteem issues, drug addiction, or anything else females go through.. God has called us to come together and be a witness of his awesome power of transformation. For additional information on CFRN's 1 Year Of Fellowship, Recording Session & A Live Performance visit thecfrn.com, myspace.com/thecfrn or myspace.com/pbitruth
Listener Project On The Road Again
Listener Project are getting ready to embark on the Eastern Half of the Listener Tour of Homes. Check out tour dates below.
Tour Dates:
tue mar 04 - jacksonville, fl - UNF
wed mar 05 - jacksonville, fl - Shanty Town
thu mar 06 - orlando, fl - Drunken Monkey Coffee
fri mar 07 - tampa, fl - House Show
sat mar 08 - gainesville, fl - TBD
sun mar 09 - pensacola, fl - Sluggo's
mon mar 10 - pensacola, fl - Daniel's Friends House
tue mar 11 - new orleans, LA - BOOKING HELP!
wed mar 12 - houston, tx - TBD
thu mar 13 - houston, tx - TBD
fri mar 14 - austin, tx - Creekside Lounge (sxsw)
fri mar 14 - austin, tx - Risto's House
sat mar 15 - dallas, tx - Space Studios
fri mar 21 - tulsa, ok - Listener TOH '08
sat mar 22 - kansas city, ks - Listener TOH '08
sun mar 23 - lawrence, ks - Listener TOH '08
mon mar 24 - omaha, nb - Listener TOH '08
tue mar 25 - minneapolis, mn - Aldrich Presbyterian
wed mar 26 - milwaukee, wi - BOOKING HELP!!
thu mar 27 - wheaton, IL - Listener TOH '08
fri mar 28 - chicago, il - Listener TOH '08
sat mar 29 - fort wayne, in - Listener TOH '08
sun mar 30 - holland, mi - Listener TOH '08
mon mar 31 - detroit, mi - The Cavern
tue apr 01 - cambridge, ontario - Listener TOH '08
thu apr 03 - toronto, ontario - Listener TOH '08
fri apr 04 - ottawa, ontario - Listener TOH '08
sat apr 05 - montreal, quebec - Listener TOH '08
sun apr 06 - albany, ny - Listener TOH '08
mon apr 07 - long island, ny - House Show
tue apr 08 - rosendale, ny - Rosendale Theater
wed apr 09 - boston, ma - Listener TOH '08
thu apr 10 - brooklyn, ny - Listener TOH '08
fri apr 11 - philadelphia, pa - Listener TOH '08
sat apr 12 - harrisburg, pa - Listener TOH '08
sun apr 13 - hagerstown, md - Listener TOH '08
mon apr 14 - baltimore, md - Listener TOH '08
tue apr 15 - richmond, va - BOOKING HELP!!
wed apr 16 - raleigh, nc - Listener TOH '08
thu apr 17 - charlotte, nc - Listener TOH '08
fri apr 18 - roanoke, va - Listener TOH '08
sat apr 19 - huntington, wv - Listener TOH '08
sun apr 20 - washington, pa - Listener TOH '08
mon apr 21 - pittsburgh, pa - BOOKING HELP!!
tue apr 22 - seneca, pa - Listener TOH '08
wed apr 23 - columbus, oh - Listener TOH '08
thu apr 24 - springfield, oh - Listener TOH '08
fri apr 25 - cincinatti, oh - Listener TOH '08
sat apr 26 - owensboro, ky - Listener TOH '08
sun apr 27 - indianapolis, in - Listener TOH '08
mon apr 28 - st louis, mo - BOOKING HELP!!
tue apr 29 - springfield, mo - Listener TOH '08
For more information go to listenerproject.com, myspace.com/listenerproject and listenertourofhomes.com
Sanctus Real Releases "Dirty Version" of We Need Each Other
After watching this year's Grammys, Sanctus Real has come to the conclusion that apparently people love dirty cd's. So, in the spirit of dirt and mud, to sell their new album, the guys did the very worst thing they could do...they made a "dirty version" of it. Check out the video of the making of their "dirty version" here.
NewWorldSon E-Card
Check out the new e-card from NewWorldSon here!
As I Lay Dying Launches New Tour
Recent Grammy Nominees, As I Lay Dying, will continue their mastery of the road into the Spring, hitting cities throughout the US and Canada from Apr-22 thru May-23. Joining Tim, Nick, Phil, Jordan and Josh on this North American run will be friends August Burns Red, Misery Signals & Evergreen Terrace. “It seems like we've played with every heavy band under the sun EXCEPT Misery Signals, who are a pretty sick band, so we figured it was about time,” says guitarist Nick Hipa. “As for August Burns Red and Evergreen Terrace, we're all pretty much joined at the hip.” This will be As I Lay Dying’s first time in nearly 3 years to be playing many of these cities, especially in Canada. They had recently been on festivals that took them into select Canadian markets. “Our shows will definitely be a lot more intimate than what we did on the more festival-style shows” says Hipa. “Moshing, crowd surfing, stage diving. I'm sure that will all be taking place more frequently on this tour!” Catch As I Lay Dying on the road:
04/22 Santa Cruz, CA Catalyst Club
04/24 Sacramento, CA Empire
04/25 Portland, OR Roseland Theatre
04/26 Seattle, WA Showbox
04/27 Boise, ID The Big Easy
04/28 Spokane, WA The Big Easy
04/29 Vancouver, BC Croatian Cultural Center
04/30 Kelowna, BC The Habitat
05/01 Calgary, AB MacEwan Ballroom
05/03 Edmonton, AB Starlite
05/04 Regina, SK Distrikt
05/05 Fargo, ND Playmakers
05/07 Green Bay, WI Riverside Theatre
05/08 Des Moines, IA People's Court
05/09 Milwaukee, WI The Eagles Club
05/10 Grand Rapids, MI The Orbit Room
05/12 Rochester, N Water Street Music Hall
05/13 London, ON The Embassy
05/14 Toronto, ON The Phoenix Theatre
05/15 Ottawa, ON Babylon
05/16 Montreal, QC Le National
05/17 Quebec City, QC Anti Sk8 Parc
05/18 Burlington, VT Higher Ground
05/20 Lancaster, PA The Chameleon
05/21 Poughkeepsie, NY The Chance
05/22 Hartford, CT Webster Theatre
05/23 Sayreville, NJ Starland Ballroom
asilaydying.com myspace.com/asilaydying
HM Magazine At South By Southwest
Hey, every year we like to send out a list of bands that HM readers might want to check out while taking in the grand convention/festival known as SXSW. If you're interested, here is a list. Next week we'll add to it some special "critic's picks" from the HM editorial team. Check these out:
Wednesday, March 12:
11pm Daniel Lanois @ Pangaea (producer of many U2 albums)
12am Dan Dyer @ Momo's
(Remember the "What Dan Dyer Says" article in HM #110?)
12am The Oaks @ Wave
(included in "Spinning at HM" in issue #130)
Thursday, March 13:
9pm Mike Farris @ Antone's (his debut is really special)
10pm Flyleaf @ La Zona Rosa
(I hear they're flying in from Africa hours before this showtime)
10pm Anathallo @ Spiro's
11:45pm Pigeon John @ Prague
1am The New Frontiers @ The Thirsty Nickel (fabulous band)
Friday, March 14:
11pm Moby @Vice
12am MxPx @ Habana Annex Backyard
12:30am Paramore @ La Zona Rosa
1am Castanets @ Central Presbyterian Church
Saturday, March 15:
8pm Ohmega Watts @ Club De Ville
9pm Del Castillo @ Antone's
9pm Edison Glass @ Esther's Follies
9pm David Bazan @ Maggie Mae's Rooftop (I bet he cusses)
1am Hanson @ Cedar Door
©2008 HM Magazine - All Rights Reserved
More news from last week:
Grandfather of Christian Rock Passes Away
Larry Norman passed away at 2:45 on Sunday of February 24th.Sunday afternoon he knew he was going to go home to God very soon and he dictated the following message while his friend Allen Fleming typed these words into Larry's computer:
I feel like a prize in a box of cracker jacks with God's hand reaching down to pick me up. I have been under medical care for months. My wounds are getting bigger. I have trouble breathing. I am ready to fly home. My brother Charles is right, I wont be here much longer. I cant do anything about it. My heart is too weak. I want to say goodbye to everyone. In the past you have generously supported me with prayer and finance and we will probably still need financial help. My plan is to be buried in a simple pine box with some flowers inside. But still it will be costly because of funeral arrangement, transportation to the gravesite, entombment, coordination, legal papers etc. However money is not really what I need, I want to say I love you. I'd like to push back the darkness with my bravest effort. There will be a funeral posted here on the website, in case some of you want to attend. We are not sure of the date when I will die. Goodbye, farewell, we will meet again. Goodbye, farewell, we'll meet again. Somewhere beyond the sky. I pray that you will stay with God. Goodbye, my friends, goodbye.
Larry
To read a tribute to Larry from the editor click here.
Eric Volz Update
Read the new letter from Eric Volz:
Since my release seven weeks ago we have received thousands of letters from all over the world. The content ranges from celebration of the life of Doris, inquiries about my health, to the status of the case, conspiracy theories (some of which are true), cultural analysis, concern for the future of U.S.- Nicaragua relations, questions about elements of the case that remain unclear, people invested in Nicaragua who blame me for their losses, death threats, hate mail, interview requests from all over, etc. But the most common theme in the letters is refreshing - it is those who give thanks to the almighty creator for allowing this first chapter to be concluded in that way that it was. There are a lot of issues that I have been dealing with that have kept me from sending an update before now, but I want to keep you informed as best as I'm able. I consider each and every one of you part of this story and I am very grateful for your on-going interest and support – it has greatly aided in my recovery! I was really ill my first couple of weeks back on U.S. soil. I felt like the space shuttle reentering the atmosphere from another world and I had to de-tox before I came back. I'll talk more about what it has been like to re-enter society later, but like a space vehicle in reentry, after my release the case heated up before it cooled off. This didn't allow me the time I needed to rest and start the healing process as quickly as I'd hoped, but these are the steps I have to take. My defense effort was forced to get right back to the grind after my release to bring attention to what was happening to the Appellate magistrates, (Roberto Rodriguez and Alejandro Estrada) who overturned the lower court's decision and declared me innocent. There was a powerful backlash by the Nicaraguan press because of my release. The Nicaraguan government was trying to wash their hands of the case and find some one to place the blame on.These Appellate judges were under constant attack by the Sandinista magistrates (Rafael Solis and Alba Luz Ramos) of the Supreme Court who were exerting significant influence to try these men for ruling on the merits of my case and upholding the law and constitution. The Appellate magistrates received death threats, faced imprisonment, and loss of their positions. As a result, two weeks after I was released, I went to New York and did a series of news features with the purpose of putting the spotlight back on the corruption of the Sandinistas Supreme court justices. My visit to New York was timed to coincide with the hearing dates in which the appellate magistrates were being tried. I offered interviews to the New York Times, the Today Show, Anderson Cooper of CNN, and the two largest Spanish-speaking networks on the air, Telemundo and Univision. I came prepared and was very deliberate in my interviews, citing what group was fronting the efforts to undermine the justice that had been delivered. The day after the features aired, the Supreme Court magistrates Rafael Solis and Alba Luz Ramos stopped showing up to work, they were hiding from the press, and ceased attending the hearings that they had initiated. Once again, the press proved it's power. Last week the results of the investigation of the Appellate magistrates were announced. There would be no sanctions against either of the Appellate magistrates – great news! The President of the Supreme Court in Nicaragua stated that, "…the Supreme Court's investigations have concluded that the Magistrates of the Court of Appeals in Granada, Robert Francisco Rodriguez and Alejandro Estrada, who ordered Volz released by revoking the original sentence, and Norman Miranda, who dissented via a vote for annulment of the original sentence, acted according to their own criteria and in accordance with the law." I spent last week in Washington, D.C. where I met with members of the State Department, sharing with them some of the, so far, unpublished pieces of this story, as well as giving them the opportunity to explain the methods in which they chose to approach my case with. In addition, I visited with key members of Congress who were the most instrumental in championing my case on the Hill. It was a great opportunity for me to both thank them for their efforts as well as investigate how your letters and out reach asking for their support actually translated into action. It was a very informative visit that provided much clarity and more pieces to the puzzle. Many of you have asked in the letters what I'm doing now. I want to reiterate my commitment to tell the entirety of this experience. My estimation is that only 20% of the story is known to those outside my family and defense team. I have decided to write a book as it has become clear that it is the only medium that can encompass this rich journey. I promise, if you thought what you know is surreal and insane, just wait until the "real story" is published! I must mention that I also feel that a complete account of this piece of history could be very healing for many people and collectively for the US and Nicaragua relationship. As many of you point out in your letters, the events that followed Doris's murder have exposed and deepened a great wound between our two nations. It is my belief that a thorough account of this story will clarify many twisted misunderstandings and subsequently be a step toward bridging the gap. One of the great pleasures I have had since my release is bumping into people who have been part of my support network these past 16 months. It has provided me a whole new level of understanding of the magnitude and impact of this ordeal. I have been greeted with tears by new friends; people approach me in the street and just grab me and hug me, many of them speechless that I'm really standing in front of them. Believe me, it's hard for me to grasp too, but I'm honored and humbled by your words, hopes and expressions of support. The depth of the community is astounding and I thank you!!! Finally, we are in the process of re-designing our web site and consolidating the on-line community. One of the features we are compelled to focus on is other cases of injustice that we believe need the attention and support of this powerful and committed community. Whether you knew it or not, through your involvement in bringing attention to my story, you have in essence become what I've begun referring to as "shareholders in justice" and we will continue, with your help, to raise awareness for those in need of it!
Thank you for your letters and continuing to be part of the story!
With love,
Eric V.
E-Card From P.O.D.
Check out the new P.O.D. E-Card! If there is anything you want to know about the album or the band, the e-card is where to look.
Mae Announces New Tour
The band will partner with Habitat For Humanity and Invisible Children charities for their 5 week tour across the U.S. starting March 16th. Having wrapped the mtvU tour with Motion City Soundtrack, MAE have announced they’ll launch a spring headlining run in support of their widely acclaimed major label debut SINGULARITY, released last fall on Capitol Records. Starting March 16, the trio is partnering with Habitat For Humanity and Invisible Children for their five-week U.S. headlining tour with The Honorary Title, Between The Trees and Far-Less supporting. Frontman DAVE ELKINS states: "In a continuing effort to learn more about charitable organizations and serve as a bridge between those groups and our fan community, we are partnering with Habitat For Humanity and Invisible Children on this tour. We will be performing acoustic everyday before the show so come early and stay tuned to www.whatismae.com for more details on participation. We are excited to bring you a tour with our friends The Honorary Title, Between the Trees, and Far-Less and we look forward to being a part of it every night." The tour dates are listed below. Catch up with MAE at: whatismae.com.
2/26 Canberra, Australia ANU Refectory Canberra
2/29 Melbourne, Australia Showgrounds (Soundwave)
3/1 Adelaide, Australia Bonython Park (Soundwave)
3/3 Perth, Australia Steel Blue Oval (Soundwave)
w/ The Honorary Title, Between The Trees, Far-Less
3/16 Philadelphia, PA Theater of the Living Arts
3/18 Washington, DC The Black Cat
3/19 New York, NY Irving Plaza
3/20 Lancaster, PA The Chameleon Club
3/21 Cambridge, MA Middle East
3/22 Buffalo, NY Club Infinity
3/24 Slippery Rock, PA University Union
3/25 Cleveland, OH Agora Ballroom
3/26 Detroit, MI Magic Stick
3/27 Chicago, IL Metro
3/28 Madison, WI Majestic Theater
3/29 Milwaukee, WI Turner Hall
3/31 Waverly, IA Neuman Auditorium
4/2 Lawrence, KS Bottleneck
4/3 Denver, CO Marquis Theater
4/4 Salt Lake City, UT Avalon Theater
4/5 Seattle, WA El Corazon
4/6 Portland, OR Hawthorne Theatre
4/8 San Francisco, CA Slim’s
4/9 Los Angeles, CA El Rey Theatre
4/10 San Diego, CA Epicentre
4/11 Pomona, CA The Glass House
4/12 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theater
4/14 Dallas, TX The Door
4/15 San Antonio, TX The White Rabbit
4/16 Houston, TX The Meridian
4/17 New Orleans, LA House of Blues
4/19 Lake Buena Vista, FL House of Blues
4/20 Fort Lauderdale, FL Culture Room
4/22 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade
4/23 Greensboro, NC Greene Street
The Myriad Ready To Release New Album
The Myriad is scheduled to release their highly anticipated sophomore project With Arrows, With Poise on May 13, 2008. The new album features lyrics of hope, doubt, heartache, and love, while drawing in audiences with their melodic strains earning them sing-a-long relationships with fans everywhere.“A Clean Shot,” the first single from With Arrows, With Poise, is currently in rotation on MTV2 and scheduled to impact Alternative Rock radio on March 10, 2008. Backed by a new label and armed with a hotly-anticipated new record, 2008 promises to be a landmark year for The Myriad. For More Information on The Myriad visit: themyriad.net, myspace.com/themyriad, labmediaonline.com/themyriad
Cool Merch At Faceless International
Faceless International's online store is up and running! That’s right- they now have Anberlin Bags, Classic Crime belts and cuff bracelets, and Showbread scarves just for you! These products were designed by the bands on their trip to India, last January. The money raised by selling these products goes toward the education of young girls rescued out of the horrible injustice of modern day slavery. The girls make these products as a source of sustainable income, as opposed to selling themselves into slavery. They are so excited to have joined with The Emancipation Network (madebysurvivors.com) to offer these great products to you. Visit their web store from the link on their website (facelessinternational.com), or directly at shop.facelessinternational.com
39th Annual GMA Dove Award Nominations
Check out this year's nominees:
Rock Recoreded Song
“Break Me Down”- Red
“Comatose”- Skillet
“I Need You”- Relient K
“Million Voices”- BarlowGirl
“Procrastinating”- Stellar Kart
Rock/Contemporary Recorded Song
“After The World”- Disciple
“Awakening”- Switchfoot
“Everything Glorious”- David Crowder Band
“Glorious One”- Fee
“Signature of Divine (Yahweh)”- Needtobreathe
POP/CONTEMPORARY RECORDED SONG
“East To West”- Casting Crowns
“I’m Not Who I Was”- Brandon Heath
“In Better Hands”- Natalie Grant
“Tears Of The Saints”- Leeland
“Undo”- Rush Of Fools
Rock Album
Jungle of the Midwest Sea- Flatfoot 56
Live from Hawaii- Audio Adrenaline
Scars Remain- Disciple
Secret Weapon- MXPX
Twilight- Future of Forestry
Rock/Contemporary Album
How Can We Be Silent- BarlowGirl
Oh! Gravity- Switchfoot
Portable Sounds- tobyMac
Remedy- David CrowderBand
The Heat- Needtobreathe
Pop/Contemporary Album
Blink- Plumb
GO remixed- Newsboys
How You Live- Point Of Grace
Rush of Fools- Rush of Fools
The Altar and the Door- Casting Crowns
Whispered and Shouted- Aaron Shust
After learning of the nominations, Leeland Mooring commented, “We are so honored to be nominated this year. There are so many talented artists out there, and we are thrilled to be nominated. We appreciate all of the people that voted for us. This continues to be an amazing journey, and we are excited to see what God is doing.”
Honored by the band’s nomination, Red lead vocalist, Michael Barnes commented, “Recognition like this means so much to us as a band. We want to thank everyone out there that continues to support Red. God has blessed us in so many ways, and we are both excited and humbled to be a part of telling others about Him through our music.”
After learning of her Female Vocalist of the Year nomination, Krystal Meyers commented, “I’m so excited! It is such an honor to be recognized by the industry in this way, and I can’t wait for the Dove Awards.”
Flyleaf And Red At Rock On The Range
Both bands are scheduled to perform at the Columbus, Ohio event on May 17th and 18th. For tickets and other information on the event go to rockontherange.com.
Thrice Announces Headlining Tour Dates
The Alchemy Index Vols: III & IV – Earth & Air will hit stores on April 15th. Be sure to check out Thrice on their headlining tour with good friends, Circa Survive and Pelican.
Tour Dates:
Apr 16: San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
Apr 18: Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues
Apr 19: Tempe, AZ @ Marquee
Apr 21: Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live
Apr 22: Dallas, TX @ Palladium
Apr 23: Austin, TX @ Stubbs
Apr 25: Nashville, TN @ Rocketown
Apr 26: Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade
Apr 27: Orlando, FL @ House of Blues
Apr 29: Ft Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution
Apr 30: St Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Landing
May 2: Charlotte, NC @ Amos Southend
May 3: Richmond, VA @ The National
May 4: East Rutherford, NJ @ The Bamboozle Festival
May 6: Baltimore, MD @ Rams Head Live
May 7: Hartford, CT @ Webster Theatre
May 8: Allentown, PA @ Crocodile Rock Café
May 9: Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory
May 10: Worcester, MA @ Palladium
May 12: Clifton Park, NY @ Northern Lights
May 13: Buffalo, NY @ Club Infinity
May 14: Pittsburgh, PA @ Club Zoo
May 15: Pontiac, MI @ Clutch Cargo’s
May 16: Chicago, IL @ Metro
May 17: Chicago, IL @ Metro
May 18: Milwaukee, WI @ Rave
May 20: Denver, CO @ Ogden
May 21: Salt Lake City, UT @ In The Venue
May 23: Seattle, WA @ Showbox Sodo
May 24: Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater
May 25: San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
May 27: Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
May 28: Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
May 29: Hollywood, CA @ Avalon
For the latest news and info on Thrice go to: thrice.net.
Switchfoot Teams Up With TWLOHA
Multi-Platinum selling rock band Switchfoot launches its spring “Up In Arms Tour” in San Antonio March 27 and hits college towns throughout the South and Midwest states. The tour will benefit To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA) and features a special performance by double Platinum-selling English band, Athlete. Tickets for the tour are on sale today and can be purchased through switchfoot.com. (See below for the full itinerary).“We’ve known Jamie [Tworkowski] for over five years now, and when he first told us about his vision to start TWLOHA two years ago, we were thrilled to jump on board in whatever way we could, wearing his t-shirts, linking to his myspace, just getting the word out,” says Switchfoot member Tim Foreman. “The dialogue surrounding depression is such an important one. It is huge for people to know that these are issues that are normal and ok to talk about. TWLOHA is breathing hope into lives once trapped by fear and doubts. ‘Love is the Movement.’ We’re honored that a song we wrote seven years ago has become the slogan for TWLOHA. And it’s true: love provides the motion that pushes us past the scars wear.” “Switchfoot was the first band to lend the stage to us, back when TWLOHA was simply an attempt to tell a story and help one friend,” says Jamie Tworkowski, To Write Love on Her Arms founder who will be briefly speaking before Switchfoot’s set each night on tour. “That was two years ago and we have come a long way since that surprising start. We are truly honored and excited to hit the road with this band that means so much to us.” To Write Love on Her Arms began in Orlando, FL in February 2006 and is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for those struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery. With over 5 million records sold, three albums in the Billboard Top 20, two top-five singles at both pop and alternative radio, Switchfoot is also recognized as one of the hardest touring bands in rock. Recently returning to the US from tours to Indonesia, Malaysia and New Zealand, the San Diego-based band has sold nearly three million concert tickets worldwide since the 2003 release of its double-Platinum breakthrough album The Beautiful Letdown. With an ever-growing fan base, Switchfoot continues international touring in support of its most recent and critically acclaimed albums, Nothing Is Sound and Oh! Gravity. Oh! Gravity., Switchfoot’s newest studio album, is also getting a boost from MTV’s “Life of Ryan” as the title track is currently featured as the hit show’s theme song. Recorded at Big Fish Recording in Encinitas, CA, Oh! Gravity. showcases a harder rock direction for Switchfoot. The album debuted at No. 1 on the iTunes Top Albums chart and has received stellar reviews, with Billboard magazine calling it “the best of the San Diego group’s nearly 10-year recording career.” Spin exclaims this album is “their liveliest record, full of dive-bombing guitar fuzz, juicy arena-alt choruses.” “This is an outstanding record in every sense,” raved Associated Press. Alternative Press found that “Oh! Gravity. [is a] sparkling, focused album bursting at the seams with giant hooks and even bigger ideas. In fact, Oh! Gravity. is Switchfoot's most diverse disc to date.” In addition to the music, Switchfoot has been actively involved in a number of humanitarian causes since its inception, including DATA, Bono’s THE ONE Campaign, Invisible Children, Habitat for Humanity and To Write Love on Her Arms. The band also founded the Switchfoot Bro-Am, a surfing and music benefit-event, and the online magazine, lowercase people (lowercasepeople.com), a daring new endeavor to revolutionize the way beauty, truth and humanity is viewed.
SWITCHFOOT UP IN ARMS TOUR:
27-Mar San Antonio, TX Laurie Auditorium
30-Mar New Orleans, LA House of Blues
3-Apr North Myrtle Beach, SC House of Blues
7-Apr Waukesha, WI Shattuck Auditorium, Carroll College
8-Apr Indianapolis, IN University of Indianapolis
11-Apr Peoria, IL Peoria Civic Center Arena
17-Apr Poplar Bluff, MO Black River Coliseum
18-Apr Troy, AL Trojan Arena
19-Apr Hattiesburg, MS Reed Green Coliseum
20-Apr Huntsville, AL Spraggins Hall
25-Apr Estero, FL Germain Arena
26-Apr West Palm Beach, FL Sound Advice Amphitheater
27-Apr Charlottesville, VA Charlottesville Pavilion
1-May Ocean City, NJ Ocean City Music Pier
2-May Stamford, CT Palace Theater
3-May Piscataway, NY Rutgers Athletic Center
4-May Rochester, NY Roberts Wesleyan College
New Music Video From Secret And Whisper
Tooth & Nail’s brightest new star Secret & Whisper are having a whirlwind February! The band just filmed their first ever music video for the song XOXOXO with director Danny Yourd (The Devil Wears Prada, Silverstein, War of Ages), and are very excited about how it turned out. Bassist, Jordan Chase says, “The video is really image based, and has Charles (vocalist) in a room, cranking an old Victrolla. Then it flashes to us, and we are playing inside the record player, sort of like mini versions of us in a box! The images of the video relate to the song, which is about everything falling apart, and as the video goes on the, the set falls apart.” The song is from the band’s upcoming full-length Great White Whale. Their music is as epic sounding as the album’s title with spacey but aggressive guitars, melodic and powerful vocals and ethereal rock with post-hardcore technicality. The album is filled with themes of loneliness, and the title track can well explain more, tells vocalist Charles Furney, “I was trying to express my feelings through a story about wanting something more than anything in your life and than losing it for the better. The story is about a boy who is the only human in this world and how in his loneliness he captures The Great White Whale, the king of the animals. He locks the beast in a tower for his own enjoyment but causes misery to the animals, which starts a huge uprising and he realizes that he has to let the whale go for the greater good.” Fans can preview the album on the E-Card at this link. The band is holding a contest to win an Ipod Nano on their Myspace page as well. To enter, just go to this link and enter the necessary info! In addition to the flurry of activity around the video and album release, there has been a ton of online buzz, including a feature on the Myspace Music homepage starting today and running for the next week, and a feature on Purevolume.com
Listen To The New Stellar Kart Album Early
Word Records' Stellar Kart is gearing up to release their third album, Expect The Impossible , on February 26 and is giving fans exclusive opportunities to hear the new record prior to its release, every Tuesday at haveyouheardtheword.com/stellarkart In addition to their weekly online listening parties, the band has released an interactive e-card for fans to send to their friends for Valentine's Day. With their new song, "The Right One," as a music bed, the band uses witty one-liners to guide the user through the process of building a customized box of "Stellar Hearts" to send to their "Right One." To build your "Stellar Hearts" e-card, please go to stellarkart.com/ecard Stellar Kart has also given fans who have pre-ordered Expect The Impossible through their website the option of choosing one of four album covers along with a link to view their new music video. To pre-order Expect The Impossible, please go to please go to stellarkart.com/store For more information about Stellar Kart, please visit stellarkart.com
This Fires Embrace Signs To Force 7 Records
The latest Christian Metal Rock band born out of Columbus, Ohio made their debut in 2006 as This Fires Embrace. Early on, these members were influenced by various popular metal bands which accelerated their music interest. This Fires Embrace lead singer, Aaron Benner became well known to central Ohio in a group by the name of Liquid6teen. However, this changed one December evening in 2004 when a gunman rushed the stage and began firing during a concert. Sadly, several lives were lost. The horrific event caused musician Aaron Benner months of soul searching, where he found the Lord’s calling in his life which transformed his perception within the music industry. Driven with this powerful testimony, Aaron Benner left his former band and sought out the musical talents of those found in Brandon Ogilby, Josh Hall, Mark Leist and Zack Koah. Though gripping that metal edge, their lyrics are far from main stream. Passionate, they bring forth an inspirational message already touching the lives of literally thousands of listeners. Force 7 Records is the label signing this talented Columbus, Ohio based group and will be releasing their newest work Warrior Poets in the summer 2008. Force 7 Records CEO, Jim Bishop, is simply ecstatic. He apprises, “This is one of the most energetic artists we’ve had the opportunity to meet. Through many hours of discussion we’ve come to an agreement we both can live with. We have big plans for THIS FIRES EMBRACE in 2008 and beyond! They will be shooting a music video very soon. We will also be releasing their debut album as a Force 7 Reocrds recording artist. Expect much touring from these heavy rockers and catch them in a town near you soon! These guys will blow your mind as they are all power!!! Rock on Fellas…” Aaron Benner adds, "All of us in This Fires Embrace are very excited to take this next step in our career with Force 7 Records. It's a great feeling to sign with a label that believes in us and what we stand for." To learn more about This Fires Embrace music, member bios and touring information, please visit: myspace.com/thisfiresembrace
Rush Of Fools Tops Radio Charts
“Can’t Get Away,” the third single from premiere new Midas Records band Rush Of Fools continues rapid radio momentum, as the #1 most added song this week at R&R AC monitored chart. Simultaneously, “We All” continues as new and active at R&R CHR. The single’s immediate success builds on the group’s unprecedented musical achievements since the band debuted it’s self-titled 2007 CD release. With it’s debut single being named R&R AC Song of the Year for 2007, Rush Of Fools has taken radio by storm. iTunes announced the smash hit as one of the top downloaded songs within the Christian & Gospel category of 2007, while Rush Of Fools has become the first new artist to land a debut single at #1 since Casting Crowns in 2004. The band also secured the R&R AC #1 and CRW AC #1 spots for the song with over 450 million impressions during 2007. “Undo” was also listed in Mediabase at the AC #1 spot. Adding to the multiple success positions on the charts, “When Our Hearts Sing” rounded out the year as a Top 7 AC hit. Rush Of Fools will continue it’s consistent nationwide touring, joining the Newsboys on the high-energy, major market “Go” Tour featuring Rush Of Fools, Article One and Newworldson. Visiting 30-40 cities nationwide, the tour kicks off on Friday, February 15, 2008. The band will be performing songs from it’s self-titled debut release as well as previewing songs from the group’s sophomore release due out this fall. In addition to the continuous radio success, Rush Of Fools recently formed an unprecedented ministry partnership with “Freedom Begins Here” to draw attention to the epidemic issue of pornography and sex addiction within and outside the church. Hosted by Dr. Gary Smalley and Pastor Ted Cunningham, the powerful series of DVD-driven “Toolkits” are designed specifically to empower churches and individuals to face the problem of sexual addiction head on. A startling survey recently revealed that 50% of Christian men and 20% of Christian women admit they are addicted to pornography. Not just struggling…addicted. That’s 84 million Christians. Rush Of Fools has joined the fight to cure a worldwide epidemic that is destroying marriages, families, careers and even churches. The band’s exclusive music video, "Undo" is highlighted as one of the resources among the “Freedom Begins Here” materials and resource tools. freedombeginshere.org/ With a compelling artistry that embodies progressive worship, Rush Of Fools' evocative and engaging message of restoration and forgiveness has resonated deeply with today's passionate generation. The combination of relevant lyrics and distinct sound has contributed to the band’s growing fan base, being named “Best New Artist” in CCM magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards, (which is currently published in the January 2008 issue of CCM magazine), “Best New Artist” in the ChristianityToday.com Readers’ Choice Christian Music Awards and one of the “Top 100 Christian Artists” by Myspace.com. Listed also as the second best-selling new artist of 2007, “The 700 Club” noted in a recent feature, that Rush Of Fools has made an "unprecedented mark on Christian music history in 2007." For more information, please visit: rushoffools.com, myspace.com/rushoffools and labmediaonline.com/rushoffools
Kutless Goes Acoustic On Upcoming Tour
Going back to their college worship band roots, Christian rock band Kutless will begin a new touring season this spring with their first ever acoustic tour debuting March 6th in Minneapolis, MN. The Kutless Acoustic tour will also include newcomers Esterlyn and Chris Taylor, both releasing debut albums in 2008. The Kutless Acoustic tour will offer an intimate evening with the band performing acoustic and unplugged versions of their vast catalogue of hits as well as sharing the stories behind the songs. The band chose to deliver
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