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JFH Music News Archive

September, 2002



*Friday, September 27th, 2002*


Lifehouse If you think youre seeing double next time you catch multiplatinum rock band Lifehouse live, you're not; it's just that guitarist Sean Woolstenhulme has joined the band, which features his brother Rick on drums, and the two look remarkably alike. Lifehouse has made it official: Sean, who'd been touring with them this summer, is the fourth member of the band, making it a quartet for the first time. "It's about time the brothers unite as one," says Rick, who'd brought Sean along in 1999 when he auditioned for the band. "It's great to play music with him because we're so similar. We tend to veer towards the same planets in space." Lifehouse has toured for a solid two years, ever since the release of their first album, and is about to embark on a world tour that takes them to Europe this week and throughout the U.S. in the fall. Understandably, the band has high expectations for its new member. Frontman Jason Wade is confident they've found the right player: "Sean is an extremely innovative and creative lead guitar player who has great stage presence."

SCC Word is already starting to leak out in Nashville and SCC is starting to talk about it from stage at his concerts... Steven Curtis Chapman has nearly completed his next album. Steven has already finished the writing and recording phase and the album is currently being mixed and mastered in Los Angeles and Nashville over the next 3 weeks. The expected released date of the new album is January 28, 2003. It's entitled All About Love and this new studio recording features 15 new cuts with 12 new songs, and 3 cover tunes (remakes of previously recorded songs including "I Will Be Here"). All of the songs center around relationships and many are love songs written to or inspired by his wife Mary Beth. SCC is extremely excited about the album saying, "We worship God best when we love each other well and I'm anxiously anticipating the chance to share these songs. One of the most powerful ways God shows Himself to us and teaches us about Himself is through our relationships here on earth, and that's what these songs focus on. And many of the lyrics are inspired by the relationship God has given me that I treasure the most, the one with my wife Mary Beth." Also, on November 21st, Steven Curtis Chapman will celebrate his 40th Birthday! Sparrow Records wants to surprise Steven and give you a chance to wish him a happy birthday, especially since it's the big 4-0. So e-mail Sparrow at this special address give Steven your birthday greetings. scc40@creativetrust.com

Rocketown Records lights up the fall with a collector's edition, enhanced EP from Ginny Owens titled Blueprint. The Nov. 19 release, comprised of sophisticated yet intimate new recordings of seven of Owens' hit songs plus new track "Let Them Hear," will be price-pointed at $6.98 or can be purchased at a value price with her critically-lauded sophomore album, Something More. The enhanced CD will also include Owens' first concept video, "With Me," directed by award-winning filmographers Jimmy Abegg and Ben Pearson. In addition, Owens will be doing a two-week tour in December to support the EP.

Skillet Skillet recently recorded its first DVD, Alien Youth: The Unplugged Invasion, live before a studio audience at the world famous Ardent Studios in Memphis. Featuring completely new unplugged acoustic versions of some of the band’s best-known songs, the DVD, releasing Nov. 19, will also include a gallery of photos taken at the Unplugged concert as well as a Bible study and Q&A session with band member John Cooper covering such topics as peer pressure, divorce and mainstream music. Executively produced by industry legend, Dana Key, the project boasts the hits from the band’s best-selling and critically acclaimed recording, Alien Youth, including: the album’s title track, “You Are My Hope,” “One Real Thing,” and “Kill Me, Heal Me.” The DVD further includes “Best Kept Secret,” as well as the previously released music video, from Skillet’s 2000 release, Invincible.

A lot has been happening for John Reuben lately! John and his new bride Erin Zappin (whom he just married on August 24th), ran into the legendary Willie Nelson at an airport in Amsterdam, Holland. They ran into Willie as they were all going through Customs together at about 6AM on a trip to Amsterdam for Reuben’s fall European tour!

Rachael Lampa is preparing for the Oct. 29 release of Blur, a project featuring edgy new versions of songs from her best-selling recordings, Live for You and Kaleidoscope. Reflecting Rachael’s desire to take her music beyond its adult contemporary origins and into a more youth-oriented realm, Blur features pop, techno, funk, dance and hip hop reworkings of ten handpicked tracks from Lampa’s two previous recordings, created by five top programmers, remixers and producers. “As I get out there and tour and meet more people in more places, I’m constantly being enlightened about other kinds of music,” explains Lampa. “I’m more into rock and funky hip-hop stuff like Lauryn [Hill] and Sheryl Crow. I love the two albums I’ve done, but I thought it might be fun to give the songs new life to show where I’m at musically.” In essence, Blur is Rachael’s music and powerful gospel message refashioned for her generation, a true portrait of the artist at 17.

delirious Modern worship’s founding band Delirious? recently performed at North Carolina’s Harvest Crusade. Gathering churches from all denominations across the Triad area, including Winston-Salem, Greensboro and High Point, California Evangelist Pastor Greg Laurie lead the three-day crusade from September 13-15. Furious? Record’s critically acclaimed Delirious? headlined the evening’s musical performances that included industry favorites, Tait and Switchfoot. Performing amidst a packed coliseum, more than 14,000 fans celebrated Delirious?’s US visit as the band previewed songs from its highly anticipated, November 19 release, Touch. Delirious?’s upcoming fifth US studio project explores numerous tones, from a gentle tap to a full embrace, on one’s relationship with God.

Sixsteps/Sparrow Records’ Chris Tomlin launched his sophomore recording, Not To Us, Sept. 10 amidst rave critical review and now commercial acclaim. With more than 5,700 units of Not To Us sold in its first week at retail, Tomlin has for the first time launched into the Top 10 on the exclusive, SoundScan compiled Top Christian Album sales chart, joining such well-known artists as P.O.D., Third Day and Michael W. Smith.

The David Crowder Band is now on tour with Bebo Norman! If you are planning to come and see the tour, we wanted to let you know that the band will be offering free copies of The Green CD with any purchase of Can You Hear Us?. This is a four song CD recorded live on the Passion Experience Tour. The CD's will ONLY be available on the tour while supplies last.

Is Contact from the Benjamin Gate not enough new music for ya? Well, how about some old music that's new to you? The South African band has pieced together an EP CD of nine demo songs from 1998-2000. You can surf on over to TheBenjaminGate.com now and order this cool collector's item!

*Tuesday, September 24th, 2002*


FFH Pop foursome FFH continued its commitment to building community this summer. The 2002 Dove Award nominee performed for 22,000 people at five minor league baseball stadiums and directed a two-week Christian camp experience for families in Pennsylvania. Recognizing baseball as a family tradition, FFH set out in May to enhance that experience for the communities of Charleston, S.C., Winston Salem, N.C., Kodak, Tenn., Charlotte, N.C. and Hickory, North Carolina. FFH kicked off the evening with a patriotic performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" and closed the night with a 70-minute post-game concert. The estimated 350 people who made commitments to Christ were directed to local churches for follow up. In an unrelated sequence of events, Jennifer Deibler was featured in a national advertisement for IBM. A photographer spotted Jennifer on the street in New York City, window-shopping at an accessories store, and asked to take her picture. Jennifer agreed and posed in the middle of an Italian purse shop (Furla) with a bag in each hand raised high over her head. Two months later, with her permission, of course, Jennifer's photo appeared in a full-page IBM ad on the back cover of Section A of The Wall Street Journal. The caption read "Furla Is Playing To Win... IBM." The ad appeared again in The Wall Street Journal September 9th and in the September 2nd edition of TIME Magazine. Check out the ad here! FFH is planning its fourth Essential Records release, out spring 2003.

Approaching sales of 800,000 copies, Jesus Freaks, the book, reached way beyond dc talk’s musical fan base. Reaching people from all walks of life, from Sr. Pastors, to prisoners, the book was created for the masses. Following that success, Jesus Freaks II, will hit stores in October. The book will contain more stories of people who were revolutionaries by fearing God, not man.

Here's an update on The Benjamin Gate lead singer, Adrienne Leisching: Adrienne sprained her ankle during Atlanta’s Festival Con Dios show. The show was nearly rained out when remnants from a tropical storm plowed its way through the festival grounds! The show went on and Adrienne performed with just as much energy as always! According to doctors’ reports, Adrienne should be back to normal in a week or so.

Rebecca St. James will be heading into the studio next week to record for the upcoming Veggie Tales Easter DVD movie. Rebecca will lend her angelic voice to the character of Hope, an angel. Also, good news from Thomas Nelson Publishers regarding Rebecca’s new book, Wait For Me. It is now in its 5th printing since its release last month!

Audio Adrenaline will be keeping a road log of the their time traveling across the country with Festival Con Dios on their website, http://www.auidoa.com. Check the site out for updated journal entries and photos from the shows.

Kevin Max’s new book of poetry, Slip of the Ink, will finally be available next month! On October 31, log onto http://www.kevinmax.com to check out the complete project.

Third Day Two-time reigning Gospel Music Association Group of the Year, Third Day, kicked off the fall leg of its record-breaking “Come Together Tour” Thursday, Sept. 19 in Toledo, Ohio. The tour, impacting 25 markets through October, welcomes back its Essential Records label mate, Paul Colman Trio, as a special guest. Also joining the tour for the first time is ForeFront band Tait, fronted by dc Talk member Michael Tait. The tour played to nearly 14,000 fans on the first weekend’s dates. The spring leg of the “Come Together Tour” was a monumental achievement, consistently breaking attendance records; becoming the biggest tour in Third Day’s history and one of the most successful tours ever in Christian music. Over the course of the 53-city spring tour, Third Day sold out 30 concerts and performed for more than 225,000 fans.

Everyday Sunday Flicker Records modern rock band Everyday Sunday, who are continuing to achieve impressive chart success on both CHR and Christian Rock radio with singles "Mess With Your Mind" and "Stand Up," accelerate full speed this month, touring nationally with Festival Con Dios and culminating with a packed day of celebration at the Virgin Megastore in Columbus, OH on September 24th for their debut project, Stand Up. The events kicked off last evening when the band hosted "Everyday Sunday¹s Ten Most Wanted" on Radio U and play their ten favorite Christian Rock songs. Immediately following, they hosted a barbeque and camp out on the Radio U lawn before returning to the studio as guests on the morning show. Among other giveaways, a drawing will be held for a stretch limo ride with the band to the Virgin Megastore that night, displaying Everyday Sunday¹s overwhelming gratitude for their supportive fans and community. ³We are so excited about getting to share this with all the people that have believed in us and encouraged us along the way,² says lead vocalist Trey Pearson. ³Because this isn¹t something we¹ve done on our own- it¹s something accomplished by so many!² Stand Up hits shelves today!

How can you catch a sneak peek of DJ Andy Hunter before his album Exodus releases on October 22nd? Andy’s song “Go” is included in the Warner Bros. film Ballistic: Ecks Vs. Sever starring Lucy Liu and Antonio Banderas, which opened nation wide on September 20th. The song is featured in a big action sequence between Lucy and Antonio. If you decide to skip the poorly reviewed R-rated action flick, have no fear! Andy will also be featured on the movie soundtrack, which will release on October 1st.

On the heels of one of the most successful years for a new artist, Reunion recording artist, Joy Williams prepares to release her sophomore project, By Surprise, to retail on October 8, 2002. Working with Grammy and Dove Award winning producer Brown Bannister (Amy Grant, Steven Curtis Chapman, Avalon), Joy has evolved into an artist in every sense of the word. Her growth both as a vocalist and songwriter is apparent in the content on By Surprise. With over half the songs on the album penned by Williams, Joy has her fingerprints all over this album both creatively and lyrically.

Phil Joel Inpop records’ artist, Phil Joel, is set to release his second album on inpop records titled Bring It On on October 22. A follow up to his successful debut solo project Watching Over You, which generated two top ten radio hits (“Strangely Normal” and “God Is Watching Over You”), Bring It On is a rock and power pop album that showcases the production talents of Joe Baldridge (Wes Cunningham, Flick, dcTalk). Joel wrote or co-wrote all ten of the songs featured on the album, and the record is already being described as more of a classic pop rock project, think Peter Gabriel meets John Mayer. A member of the Grammy Award nominated group Newsboys, Joel has been playing bass, singing and songwriting as a part of the group for the last 8 years. “Being a part of Newsboys has been an incredible learning experience for me, one that I was able to build on for Watching Over You. With Bring It On, it took my experiencing so much in my family life, solo-career life and Newsboys-life to come to God and just say, ‘I’m tired of myself!,” and just give everything to Him” says Joel. “The great thing about doing another solo album is that I get a chance to share more personally about the things that God has been doing in my life over this past year, and this year has probably been the most life-changing year ever.”

Bebo Norman Bebo Norman's Sept. 10 release, Myself When I Am Real, achieved impressive first week sales. As a result, Norman's third project with Essential Records landed at No. 1 on Billboard's Heatseekers chart. The record additionally claimed the No. 8 position on Billboard's Top Internet Sales chart. On the Christian market charts, it was the week's fourth best-selling album, garnering the No. 1 position on SoundScan's ® Christian Adult Contemporary Albums chart. This is the second time Norman has attained Heatseeker's status, a category that identifies the best-selling titles by new and developing artists throughout the music industry at large. His sophomore release, Big Blue Sky, debuted at No. 4. Equally impressive, Norman's position on the Top Internet sales chart pushed him ahead of popular mainstream acts such as Nelly, Dave Matthews and Eminem.

Calling all hardcore fans! Our friends at HardcoreChristian.com have debuted a new site design for y'all to feast your eyes on. It's pretty sweet so go check it out at: www.hardcorechristian.com

Solid State artists Beloved are in the middle of writing new material for the follow-up to the ep they release this summer. The band will be entering the studio this October.

On September 13th Soul Embraced entered Poynter Studios to begin recording their sophomore Solid State release, "Immune". Some of the song titles are: "Abandoned," "Immune To Emotion," "Existence In Despair" and more!

There is no shortage of new releases today! Check out new projects from Newsboys, Jeremy Camp, Cadet, Everyday Sunday, Nichole Nordeman, ZOEgirl, Living Sacrifice, Project 86, Poor Old Lu, Mortal, City On a Hill & more!

*Thursday, September 19th, 2002*


Audio A We had the pleasure of speaking to Mark Stuart, the lead singer of pop/rock quartet Audio Adrenaline at the Williamsport Festival Con Dios date about their upcoming album. Stuart informed us that the tentative title for their new record is Worldwide with a release date aiming for February. "It's a record to take a generation that's done a lot of worship to the next step," explains Stuart. "[It's about] worshipping with your whole life." Some song titles already established include "Worldwide," "Go & Be," "Strong," "Pierced," and "You Ruined My Life." Stuart also mentioned a song called "Get Dirty," and was quick to explain, "It's about getting out of the mindset that the church is supposed to be clean and perfect and to reach out more to the lost." When asked about the sound the record is going for? "It's more upbeat -- more like Underdog than Lift." In the meantime, be sure to pick up the band's amazing current release Lift, which features such favorites as "Ocean Floor," "You Still Amaze Me," and "Beautiful." Also, you can now get the limited edition copy of Lift with a new cover for only $10, only available at Festival Con Dios!

TobyMac shared the latest with us as well, telling a little about a recent adoption of two young babies into the McKeehan household. Yesterday, Toby rushed home to be with his wife Amanda as the welcomed the children into their home! Congratulations guys!

dctalk Toby McKeehan also informed us of the status of the infamous hip-hop flavored pop/rock trio dc Talk. Toby stated that he all three members have plans for follow-up solo albums to their 2001 debuts. Upon completing those projects, the group will decide where to dc Talk next. Toby insisted that the group isn't finished yet, although none of the guys know where the band will be going next as a whole. However, in other dc Talk news, avid fans will be happy to know that the Free At Last Movie that was looking at a 1995 release but never made it out of the cutting room will now be released to video/DVD later this year! We'll keep you posted on any new developments.

Sixpence NTR Sixpence None the Richer much delayed project, Divine Discontent is releasing October 29th, but Word Records has stated that the band has actually re-entered the studio to record one last song for the project. The band will be covering "Don't Dream It's Over," by Crowded House and adding it to the album to complete it. In the meantime, on October 1st, you'll be able to pick up the band's first single, "Breathe Your Name," which will feature the previously unreleased track "Northern Lights," which didn't make the final album.

Skillet Skillet offered this update on their pending DVD release in a recent newsletter: "We still have been busy but things are slowing down with the completion of our DVD entitled The Unplugged Invasion. It is very different from the normal Skillet show. It is an unplugged set (hence the name) and the arrangements are transposed to fit acoustic guitar better. We also played with a mini drum set complete with congas and bongos. All that to say I think that our fans will think it is cool. The DVD is due to be released on November 19th."

The Benjamin Gate The Benjamin Gate recently wrapped the filming of their latest video for their song “Lift Me Up” from their current release, Contact. Starting before 4:00 in the morning, the band spent all day on the tarmac of an airfield near Nashville in 90+ degree weather. The band kept cool by hanging out in the shade of the grounded plane’s wings, drinking lots of water and sucking on popsicles. To get a sneak peak of what the video will look like, click here. In other Gate news, please keep lead vocalist Adrienne in prayers who sprained her right ankle at a recent Festival Con Dios show.

Tree63 Tree63 is not only back on the scene, but better than ever with their October 22nd release, The Life and Times of Absolute Truth. With production by Nik Fairclough and lead singer John Ellis, the South-African based group continues their signature sound, combining thought-provoking lyrics with modern rock at its finest. “Tree63’s ability to create hook-filled songs overflowing with meaning and emotion is what makes them a great rock band. This album reflects the maturity and changes they have experienced since the last record and it has grown them incredibly as a live band,” says Steve Ford, director of marketing at inpop Records. inpop Records has officially released the first single "No Words” to CHR radio, which is getting great initial response. It’s currently going for adds on stations around the US. In addition, inpop has released another new track, "The Glorious Ones,” to rock radio. Both songs are set to be included in Tree63's live set on the upcoming 40-city Festival Con Dios tour.

Wanna hear the new Steven Curtis Chapman 9/11 tribute song we reported on on Monday, "Remember the Day?" Check it out here! http://www.sparrowrecords.com/news/news_detail_page.asp?id=697

Paul Colman Trio performed a mini-concert in Jeness Park, Calif., for the participants of TruthQuest: California, FamilyNet's new Christian Reality television series. The trio will be featured on one of the show's 13 episodes scheduled to air weekly, beginning October 3.

As comedian Chonda Pierce prepares to launch her fall tour on September 20th, she has a lot to look forward to, with over 20,000 tickets sold for the first week of shows, with unprecedented numbers, including an OVERSOLD show in Greenville, SC (2,400) where the extra ticket holders will be sitting in the venue’s choir loft behind Pierce. Other tour markets expected to sell out include Gatlinburg, TN (6,000), Chattanooga, TN (3,866), Bristol, TN (5,000) and Montgomery, AL (5600), already reaching an average of over 4500 tickets sold per show. "If you ask me, I think it's kind of sad,” jokes Chonda, “I think all these tickets selling is a sure sign that a lot of folks just didn't have anything else to do! Actually, I'm just grateful I don't have to stand in a room and talk to myself all night! If I wanted to do that -- I could have stayed at home. I have kids! Maybe now my mother will think I have a "real" job!"

Big Idea Productions, creators of the best-selling VeggieTales children's video series, ushers in the holiday season with a joyous new VeggieTales musical extravaganza, The Star of Christmas. Featuring everyone's favorite Veggie characters in a brand-new heartfelt holiday release, The Star of Christmas will be available to own at Christian bookstores October 26, 2002 on VHS for $14.99 SRP and DVD for $19.99 SRP.

*Monday, September 16th, 2002*


SCC Marking the one-year anniversary of last year’s September 11th attacks, Steven Curtis Chapman performed at “A Tribute to Grace and Hope,” an event held last Wednesday evening at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. Being in New York for the commemoration is what meant most to Chapman, and performing at the tribute was a deep honor. Chapman explains, “The reason this was such a significant thing for me was because this was the first opportunity I’ve had to be back in New York since last year’s events of September 11th. I’ve really been desiring an opportunity to come back and minister to the people here, to respond to the needs here, so this has been an incredible chance to finally do that and be a part of the healing.” During his performance, along with playing “God Is God” from Declaration, Chapman shared a new song with the audience, a song he wrote just the day of the performance upon arriving in New York and immediately being moved by the emotions of the city. Titled “Remember The Day,” he finished writing the song two minutes before going on stage. “I think much of what they [New York] had hoped tonight was not only remembering the day, but really remembering in such a way that recognizes this is a significant step in the direction of seeing the healing take place and really celebrating the hope that has risen out of this,” he comments. Joining Chapman were local firemen, police officers and political dignitaries, such as New York Governor Pataki. Other performances were from Third Day, TobyMac and Fred Hammond, as well as a special appearance by New York Knicks’ team members Allan Houston and Charlie Ward, among others.

Avalon Sparrow Records’ gold-selling vocal group, Avalon, recently announced the addition of Melissa Greene to the group. Greene replaces soprano Cherie Adams who has decided to pursue a solo career, both singing and speaking at women’s conferences. Adams is also coming out with a book at the end of the year, which is geared towards Christian single women. Greene, who joins Avalon members Michael Passons, Jody McBrayer and Janna Long, was formerly with the vocal group Truth. With Greene immediately in place, Avalon is currently preparing for their “Joy Christmas Tour” to promote the top-selling CBA Christmas album, Joy, and performing across the country throughout the fall and winter.

T-Bone is in the process of making a movie with Cuba Gooding Jr. called The Fighting Temptations It will hit theaters next summer. T-Bone’s new album gospelalphamegafunkyboogiediscomusic hits shelves November 19.

Newsboys Newsboys have done it again! “Million Pieces,” the second single from their highly acclaimed release Thrive, reached the #1 position for the second week in a row on R&R’s Christian Hit Radio (CHR) charts as well as the Adult Contemporary (AC) charts. Newsboys dominated the charts earlier this year with “It Is You” capturing the #1 spot for a record breaking 12 consecutive weeks on CHR/POP formats. On top of their radio success, Newsboys are also slated to release their first ever remix album, Newsboys Remixed, on September 24th. This album preludes the launch of the highly anticipated "Thrive—It’s All In The Word Tour” that will be kicking off on October 9th. Known for their groundbreaking and innovative live shows, Newsboys will also be joined by featured guests ZOEgirl, Superchic[k], and By The Tree.

Michael W. Smith recently shot a video to the song "There She Stands" which was played at several NFL games this past Sunday helping commemorate 9/11. Michael also conducted an interview with syndicated radio host Delilah about "There She Stands", which aired on 9/11 across the country.

Bebo Norman Bebo Norman launched his highly anticipated third label project, Myself When I Am Real, September 10. In support of its release, Norman hopped the bus this week for his "Fall Circa 2002" tour, ready to premier new music from the record for audiences in 42 cities nationwide. Additionally, the week included other promotional events. Fellow singer-songwriter and labelmate Sarah Sadler also celebrated the release of her self-titled debut offering September 10. Sadler, joined by additional guest artists David Crowder Band on the first half of the tour and Ten Shekel Shirt on the remaining tour dates, will open for Norman on the entire tour. The tour kicked off Sunday, September 8 at Mt. Vernon Nazarene Christian University in Ohio and traveled to Memphis, Tenn., on Monday, where Lifeway Christian Stores sponsored a post-concert midnight release party and signing. Moving on to College Station, Texas, on Thursday, the three artists performed for a packed-out Rudder Theater at Texas A & M. The three opening concerts drew nearly 3,000 fans.

Skillet just got done recording a live, acoustic DVD to be released, November 19th. Some Skillet Unplugged tunes just in time for the holidays!

toby For over a decade Toby McKeehan (a.k.a. tobyMac) has stretched the boundaries of the CCM subculture to previously uncharted depths. Never content with the status quo, toby is putting out two new products to keep his debut solo project, Momentum, pumping through the Christmas season. While toby co-headlines the 35 city Festival Con Dios, the $5.99 Momentum DVD and a $1.99 Christmas single will release to retail on October 22. The Momentum DVD offers three short form music videos, commentaries and behind the scenes footage as well as the alternative ending to the “Extreme Days” video. This Christmas will include “O Come All Ye Faithful” and enhanced bonus features including a holiday greeting from toby, screen savers, wallpaper, and buddy icons.

With two projects under their belt, Phillip and Natalie LaRue are gearing up for the release of their third album, Reaching, which streets on October 8, 2002. Following their successful self-titled debut and their sophomore release, Transparent, LaRue's latest endeavor demonstrates the brother-sister duo's growth spiritually and musically. On Reaching, Phillip and Natalie examine deeper questions of faith and knowing God. At the core of LaRue is a passionate pursuit for knowledge of God and the heavenly kingdom. They seek it for themselves, and challenge others to seek it as well, through their music and lyrics. "Reaching revolves around the theme of surrender- surrendering emotions and feelings, surrendering relationships, and surrendering to God," Phillip said. "It's not necessarily every song, but when you listen, you get a feeling of giving things up or letting go to God."

Ardent rock band Justifide is a featured artist on the national major-market Scream tour this fall, which officially kicked off last week. Joining a diverse line-up, which includes Grits, KJ-52, Big Fat Jam, and Jonah33, Justifide is touring in support of its upcoming sophomore release, The Beauty Of The Unknown, set to release December 24.

Beloved are in the middle of writing new material for the follow-up to the ep they release this summer. The band will be entering the studio this October.

Over this last week and weekend Norma Jean filmed a video for "The Entire World Is Counting On Me And They Don't Even Know It", the first song on their latest release Bless The Martyr And Kiss The Child. Underoath filmed a video for "When The Sun Sleeps" off their Solid State debut, The Changing Of Times. Look for the video on the Solid State site in the coming month!

*Wednesday, September 11th, 2002*


Audio A Audio Adrenaline recently hit the studio in the end of August recording vocals and writing several more new songs for their new studio project. The record is projected to be done in November and will be released sometime in February. The album is tentatively be called Worldwide-Worship with your Life. The band hopes to release the first single in December called "Go And Be." Also, be on the look out for a possible DVD single from the band in November!

Where's Luna Halo?! The band has been recording a new project this year and in May parted from their home label of Sparrow Records due to some creative differences. But hope is shimmering for fans of the four piece! On September 9th, Luna Halo released a brand new 4-song EP that can only be purchased online! Surf on over to LunaHalo.com to order your copy npw!

Bleach The new Bleach and Kutless videos were aired Monday night on the show "Oven Fresh" on Much Music USA. How the show works is they play the video and then let people vote for or against the video from their website www.mmusa.tv. If the video gets enough votes, they continue to play it, if not then it's dropped. Vote for Bleach, guys! Last I checked they were number one! Let's support our Christian bands and rock it!

Relient K The track listing has been finalized for Relient K's Employee Of The Month EP. 1. Trademark, 2. In Love With The Eighties (pink tux to the prom), 3. Wit's All Been Done Before, 4. A Penny Loafer Saved, A Penny Loafer Earned, 5. For The Band, and 6. Failure To Excommunicate. The first 2 tracks are from the new album which will be in stores March 2003, tracks 3-5 are only available on this EP, and 6 is from their last project, The Anatomy of the Tongue in Cheek Click this link to see the cover of this special packaged EP. The disc will only be available at the RK merch table on the Back To The Few Tour which starts later this month.

Wonder what's up with Switchfoot's delayed release of their new album The Beautiful Letdown? CMusicweb.com caught up with the quartet at Purple Door 2002 and got the latest on the band. The excellent interview reveals a possible January release, a possible Switchfootage DVD release simultaneously with the new album and a lot more! Check it out at: http://cmusicweb.com/features/purpledoor02/switchfoot.shtml

For those who didn't catch it, Sweden-bred hard rockers Blindside made their first live TV appearance last night on Conan O'Brien playing their new single "Pitiful" from their sweet new record Silence. They put on a killer performance and sounded great! Congrats, guys!

*Monday, September 9th, 2002*


The Today Show on NBC has scheduled a feature on Christian music which will air on Monday, September 9 at 8:45 a.m. pending any breaking news! This feature will include Michael W. Smith, Third Day, NewSong, True Vibe, Jayden Maria, Rachael Lampa, Delirious? and Billboard's Deborah Evans Price. Tune in if you can!

JoC Following a successful spring tour, Jars of Clay gears up for the fall leg of The Eleventh Hour Tour, featuring special guest The Elms and a tour partnership with international relief organization World Vision. The fall tour will visit over 40 cities from October through early December with intimate performances in 3,000 – 5,000 seat venues. Special ticket pricing for fans and sound check meet-and-greet events enhance the appeal of this tour, which launches in Detroit, Michigan on October 3. Jars recently released their first live DVD/VHS project 11 Live while the Elms are gearing up for their sophomore release Truth, Soul, Rock & Roll on October 22nd.

Supertones The O.C. Supertones are gearing up to rock the country with the much-anticipated release of their new album, Hi-Fi Revival, on October 22nd. The launch will take place in their southern California home, at the Tower Records in Long Beach. Los Angeles’ KROQ, one of the nation’s top rock stations, will be in attendance to help promote the event. Brilliantly produced by experienced duo Brent Bourgeois (WOW Hits 2002, Chris Rodriguez) and Charlie Peacock (Audio Adrenaline, Switchfoot, Ravi Coltrane) Hi-Fi Revival delivers original and cutting edge music that presents an evolution of the band and their pop-rock sound. It’s being described as equal parts Elvis Costello, The Ramones, The Clash, and James Brown. Band manager Steve Thomas says, “The Supertones are in good company with bands like No Doubt who have their roots in the Orange County ska movement but have moved on to make great pop records. Hi-Fi Revival has a fresh, relevant pop rock sound that proves this band has evolved.” Producer Charlie Peacock says, “The Supertones have come up with some fresh musical flavors, all the while retaining their original SoCal coolness. I think this new CD is like a box of cinnamon Altoids--strictly irresistible.” The Supertones just wrapped production on the video for probable first rock single, “Super Fly” in Los Angeles. The video will be included on a promotional DVD set to come out later in the year. Next spring, the band will head out on the See Spot Rock Tour with Relient K, Pillar, and John Reuben. The tour, running from February through May, will be a one-day rock event set to hit approximately 50 cities. More information on the tour will be announced soon.

Superchick Inpop recording artist Superchic[k] is set to launch their next release, Last One Picked, on October 8th with aggressive marketing and touring efforts. "At some point, everyone knows what it's like to be the last one picked," says Tricia about the album title. "The new album addresses some heavy subjects, like a girl we met who won't eat lunch because her jeans don't fit anymore. She's worried because the world says she's not thin enough when the only person she really needs to please is God." If Karaoke Superstar fashioned a home run sound, then Last One Picked hammers a grand slam right out the ballpark. Max Hsu, the group's creative mad scientist, produced the new album in a way that accentuates their diverse stylistic twists while shooting the sonic levels right off the charts. Likewise, the new songs offer more pointed commentary about the world's social snares while encouraging fans to seek and follow God's individual purpose for their lives. Inpop is approaching this project with fervor and dedication, focusing their efforts around the key 13-18 year old demographic, one that Superchic[k] has been reaching in a solid and consistent way through their previous project, touring, and one on one time with fans.

Audio Adrenaline's family just continues to grow! Congratulations go out to Will McGinniss and his wife Andrea - They are expecting their 3rd child in early 2003! They will be stocking up on baby supplies with Tyler Burkum and his wife Allison, who are expecting their first child late this year!

Amidst touring the country with her latest release, Dream, Michelle Tumes is somehow finding time to hash out the exuberant lyrics fans have grown to love. The insider buzz at her home label of Sparrow Records is that we should be expecting the official announcement of the fourth release from her, but when is still to be determined.

The Benjamin Gate will be spending all day today filming the video for “Lift Me Up” from their new release, Contact. Coming along for the ride will be the Nashville FOX affiliate to get some behind the scenes footage of the making of the video, which is being shot on a military base. Stay tuned to ForeFrontRecords.com for dates and times when this will air.

*Thursday, September 5th, 2002*


Audio A Last week, ForeFront Records began a countdown for big news regarding Audio Adrenaline's presence on the 2nd Annual Festival Con Dios Tour this month. The countdown lasted a week and was finally revealed late yesterday. Unfortunately the news will be found anti-climactic to some as the big surprise is the release of Audio Adrenaline's record LIFT with new cover art exclusively sold at the Festival. No other changes to the record were made. Grab a sneak peak of the image here. The album will be going for a reasonable $10.00 at the festival and contains the same 13 fab tracks from the November 2001 release. In other Audio news, ForeFront also has plans to release a DVD single to stores before the end of the year. We'll keep you posted as we get more info on that as well!

Gotee recording artist John Reuben recently shot the video for “Doin’” in the wonderful city of Atlanta, GA. The video, whose treatment was written by Reuben himself, features the song from his latest project Hindsight, and was produced and directed by Johnathan Rej & Tom Bingham (Bleach, Further Seems Forever, Stretch Arm Strong). It’s being described as "full-court duck duck goose, fight club style!"

Now you can check out "Breathe Your Name," the first single from Sixpence None the Richer's new album Divine Discontent, which is available for streaming at http://www.sixpence-ntr.com

"Let’s roll." It was a call to action heard ‘round the world, spoken with unfaltering courage and resolve by Todd M. Beamer as he joined United Airlines Flight 93 passengers Jeremy Glick, Mark Bingham and Thomas Burnett in a selfless attempt to overpower the terrorists who had diverted the plane to a path toward our nation’s capitol. Beamer’s inspiring last words resound now with every song on Let’s Roll, which TMB Records, L.L.C., will release on Sept. 10, through Chordant Distribution Group to the CBA market and EMD to the general market. Produced by Grammy-nominated and Dove award-winning producer/composer Tony McAnany (Chant, P.O.D.), Let’s Roll features an eclectic, all-star line-up that includes Lila McCann, dcTalk, 38th Parallel, James Curlin, Nicole C. Mullen, Wynonna, Yo Yo Ma, Shane Minor, Steven Curtis Chapman and many more. Fourteen of its 18 songs are originals, which longtime Beamer family friend McAnany wrote or co-wrote in the aftermath of Sept. 11.

POD P.O.D.'s latest video, "Satellite," the title track from their triple platinum album, debuts on MTV's TRL today! "Satellite" was directed by Marcos Siega. The live footage was filmed in Virginia Beach, VA at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater where 19,000 P.O.D. fans turned out! TRL airs today at 3:30 p.m. (ET/PT), 2:30 p.m. (CT). In JfH reader-submitted news, P.O.D.'s song "Boom" was spotted on a commercial for the upcoming television series FastLane.

Grits The general market media attention on Grits just keeps building. Gotee received word ysterday that hip hop's flagship publication, The Source (circ. 475,000), wants to do a Grits photo shoot and will be running a feature story prior to year's end. This comes on the heels of confirmed editorial coverage in XXL, CMJ Monthly, Alternative Press, Urban Network and BRE, among others! Congrats fellas!

*Wednesday, September 4th, 2002*


Lifehouse Sparrow Records has partnered with Dreamworks to issue the double-platinum selling group Lifehouse’s sophomore album Stanley Climbfall to the CBA marketplace available September 17th. This release will follow the band’s highly successful debut album No Name Face, which featured “Hanging By A Moment,” the Billboard Modern Rock #1 hit and most-played radio track of 2001 as well as #1 for 6 weeks at Modern Rock radio and scanned more than 2.3 million units. "Sparrow Records is extremely honored to represent DreamWorks's artist Lifehouse to the CBA market,” states Peter York, Sparrow Records President. “We have championed this band and their music since we first heard them. We consider this an important opportunity. We will do everything to insure this great music gets into the hands of as many people as possible. Lifehouse is a band with something significant to say to the world and we are privileged to support them in this way." “I’m really in a good place now,” states Wade. “I’m writing more storyteller songs, about how I view certain situations I’ve been in or witnessed or my friends have been in. Most of the stuff is not written out of conflict—it’s really positive.” The album's title reflects Wade’s signature approach to lyrics. “Everyone has their ups and downs,” states Wade. “And after a lot of wordplay a song called ‘Stand, Climb, Fall’ was transformed into an everyday character named Stanley Climbfall who goes through those kinds of changes.”

toby It was confirmed last week that tobyMac will be included in the list of artists performing at a 9/11 tribute in New York City. The event, Tribute to Grace and Hope, will provide a night of inspiration and hope specifically designed to lift hearts and provide faith and vision for the future. Also performing will be Fred Hammond, Steven Curtis Chapman, Third Day, and Marcos Witt. This event will include testimonies of grace from Ground Zero by a NYC fire fighter, police officer, World Trade Center survivors, and local pastors. Local and national political leaders will participate including Senators Schumer of New York and Senator Corizine of New Jersey. Dr. James Dobson, will also be among those participating in the tribute. Local celebrities and athletes such Allan Houston, Charlie Ward of Knicks will headline an all-star group gathering to share their faith, respect and inspiration. For more information on this event, check out http://www.jammintribute911.com. In other tobyMac news, ForeFront is releasing a new DVD and enhanced CD single for toby this fall. The DVD will feature the 3 music videos from Momentum and is loaded with tons of extra stuff. The enhanced CD single will be a new Christmas song titled “This Christmas.” The song features Nirva Dorsaint and Tru-Dog, and was written and produced with Webster County. This is the same team that brought you "Irene" and "J Train."

Michael W. Smith Michael W. Smith’s August 20 release, DVD-Video/VHS titled Worship, has debuted at the number-one spot on the Billboard Top Music Videos chart which, this week, also included projects by U2, Britney Spears, Bruce Springsteen and Elvis. The Worship DVD/VHS initial shipment qualifies it for RIAA Gold certification which will be made official within the next three weeks. In addition to the stellar performance of the DVD, scans for the platinum-certified Worship album doubled from the previous week causing retailers to scramble for additional stock. Michael's follow-up worship album, Worship Again releases October 22nd.

Plumb Plumb has posted the following update on their newly revamped website, Plumbinfo.com: "I wanted to personally give you the latest news. I signed to my new label, Curb records, last October. Almost immediately I began recording the new record, Beautiful Lumps of Coal, with producers like Jay Joyce (Patti Griffin). I finished it this summer, had the photo shoot, got the website up and running and the albums now due out EARLY 2003. I know I know, its been pushed back. But simply in order to make the album that much better and tie up some loose ends so that once its released, all I'll have to think about is making it to a city near you."

ZOEgirl ZOEgirl, is set to release Mix Of Life, a remix album of twelve songs from their first effort, ZOEgirl, and their sophomore follow up, Life, on September 24th. The songs chosen for the album were remixed by such well-known producers such as Tedd T. and aurel m and produced by Lynn Nichols, A&R for Sparrow Records. Mix Of Life includes remixed versions of such radio hits as “I Believe,” “Anything Is Possible” and “With All Of My Heart,” the latter that reached the #1 spot for 4 weeks at CHR Radio. There was no hesitation when the decision was made to release a remix record by Chrissy Conway, Alisa Girard and Kristin Swinford, the trio comprising ZOEgirl. Conway explains the reasoning behind Mix Of Life. “We wanted to put out a remix album this year to show people a different side of ZOEgirl. We hope to continue expanding musically and feel that this album is a great way to segue way into the different styles of music that we like.” Combined, the projects ZOEgirl and Life have scanned over 600,000 units to date. A DVD/VHS is also releasing September 24th, titled Real Life, which includes the music video for “Dimissed” along with a special behind the scenes feature with ZOEgirl.


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This Friday, April 26, 2024
ALBUMS
Mack Brock Time and Time Again - EP [Centricity]
Aaron Cole Sorry, I Changed [RCA Inspiration]
Alex Henry Foster Kimoyo [Hopeful Tragedy]
Gileah Taylor Slow Parade [Velvet Blue]
Various Artists Unsung Hero: The Inspired By Soundtrack (Digital/CD) [Girder]

SINGLES
Nate Parrish I'm Alright - Single [Fair Vaux]
Unspoken What He Says About You - Single [Centricity]

VINYL
Various Artists Unsung Hero: The Inspired By Soundtrack [Girder]

DVD
Travis Tritt Country Chapel DVD [Gaither]

Next Friday, May 3, 2024
ALBUMS
Soweto Gospel Choir History of House, Vol. 1 EP [Gallo]

SINGLES
Coquí Today - Single [DREAM]
Brandon Heath Highly Favored (feat. Ryan Ellis) - Single [Centricity]
Bay Turner Brand New - Single [Centricity]


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