Wuzzup?

Wuzzup? Former Forefront band Steve (from the U.K.) has decided to call it quits. This seems to be a trend lately and Audio Adrenaline recently was added to the list, as they have said there will be a final album called Adios sometime this year. The 10th anniversary of DC Talk will be celebrated on March 7th as Forefront Records re-releases the Jesus Freak, remastered as a CD + DVD combo featuring the full Jesus Freak CD and the Welcome to the Freak Show DVD. It will also include new remixes of songs from Jesus Freak, video footage & interviews, and expanded liner notes. The DVD Features a 13-song live concert along with the Jesus Freak, Colored People and the Just Between You and Me concept videos. Also on the DC Talk front is a tribute album to celebrate the anniversary of Jesus Freak. Gotee Records has announced the track listing for the upcoming Jesus Freak Tribute CD. Relient K will be covering Between You and Me. Other bands appearing on the album include House of Heroes, Family Force Five, The Showdown, and 4th Avenue Jones covering the title track. For more, log on to gotee.com. Listen for the first single, I Am Free, from Newsboys on their upcoming Inpop Records debut. Their double disc INPOP worship and rock albums are expected to release in the next couple of months. Passion 06 opened at the Gaylord Entertainment Center in downtown Nashville at full conference capacity with 18,000 in attendance. Artist-worshiper leaders included Charlie Hall, David Crowder Band, Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, Shane and Shane, Nathan and Christy Nockels, and many others. The Passion 06 CD will release in the next few months. Souljahz' new single S.O.S. (Support Our Servicemembers) is available at itunes for download. This is to help ease the restlessness until the label decides to release a new project. MercyMe wowed The Tonight Show crowd on December 21st as they performed the song Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree from their Christmas Sessions CD. April 25th sees the release of a rockier Mercyme CD, Coming Up To Breathe. Derek Webb, eyebrow-raiser, controversial, button pusher? of course... While his songs are pointed and blunt and honest, Derek maintains that these topics need to be addressed. Mockingbird is his latest effort and with a Bob Dylan/Johnny Cash/Woody Guthrie fervor he's not backing down and he hopes that all will give his songs a chance. Check out www.inorecords.com and www.derekwebb.com for more info on Derek and his musical escapades. Canadian Southern gospel singer Warren Parker of the Parker Trio recently had a good deed go horribly wrong. His wife and friends on their tour bus witnessed Warren being struck by a truck, sandwiching him against the bus, injuring him fatally as he was attending the scene of an accident. Keep his family and friends in prayer. Donations (if desired) can be made to: Parker Outreach International P.O. Box 296 Pickering, Ontario L1V 2R4. DJ Andy Hunter and wife recently welcomed to this world, Evie Hope Hunter. She was born December 12, 2005, weighing in at 8 pounds and 4 ounces. 2006 Shai Awards Cancelled. Vibe Gospel Music President Dionne Smith has announced that Vibe Gospel Music will not be presenting the Shai Awards in 2006. The event was originally planned for the city of Winnipeg in this spring. In an online statement, Smith says that 2006 will be a year of restructuring to ensure the Shai's longevity. The Shai Awards (originally called the Vibe Awards) is a Canadian "People's Choice" awards for Gospel music artists. Visit www.shaiawards.com/letter.html. for further details. Casting Crowns, Brian Doerksen and Hillsong United topped the 2005 Charts at Canadian retailers. After leaving Word records, becoming an indie band, getting picked up by Centricity Records, and then having Word records pick up the distribution of their new label, it's been a full circle for the band Downhere. Currently they're in the studio with Grammy-nominated producer (U2, Gwen Stefani) Greg Collins. So far 6 songs are being worked on. Stay tuned for more info. March 14th marks the release of Rise from Building 429. Sanctus Real will release their third studio album, The Face of Love, April 4. The album contains songs portraying themes of love, brokenness and the sometimes elusive sense of God's presence. Inspired by real-life heartache and rediscovered joy, the emotions behind each track are vulnerable and undisguised, making this album the band's most accessible project of their career and exhibiting the band's progression both musically and lyrically. If you like The Faint, Bloc Party, The Cure, or Tears for Fears, then you'll probably love Tooth & Nails' upcoming release by Jonezetta. Pillar's brand new video for their hit single "Frontline" is now available at www.myspace.com/flickerrecords for your viewing pleasure. Things are in the works for their next monumental cd to release later this year. Michael W. Smith was on CNN's Larry King Live February 10 talking about his near drug overdose, nearly losing his life, and finding God. Wuzzup?

After 7 years as a band. Further Seems Forever has decided to call it quits.
There is talk of some music still coming out in dvd format or an unreleased songs cd.

Newsboys have announced the departure of Bryan Olesen so he can focus on his band Casting Pearls.  No replacement has been established yet, but listen for the first single, “I Am Free,” from their upcoming Inpop Records debut.
The double disc, worship and rock albums are expected to release in the next couple of months.

New phenom Decemberadio’s classic rock vibe, accented by Southern rock elements and a modern edge, is being described as having "hints of Lenny Kravitz and Led Zeppelin combined with elements of The Black Crowes, Jet and Lynyrd Skynyrd."  Billboard Magazine says they are one of the bands to watch closely this year.  Word Records will release their debut project later this year.

Audio Adrenaline recently said at the end of a recent concert that this year would be the last year for the band. Check out their website for more details.

The 10th anniversary of DC Talk’s “Jesus Freak” will be celebrated on March 7th as Forefront Records re-releases “Jesus Freak”, re-mastered as a CD + DVD combo featuring the full “Jesus Freak” CD and the “Welcome to the Freak Show” DVD. It will also include new remixes of songs from “Jesus Freak”, video footage & interviews, and expanded liner notes. The DVD Features a 13-song live concert along with the “Jesus Freak”, “Colored People” and the “Just Between You and Me” concept videos.

Listen for the first single, “I Am Free,” from Newsboys on their upcoming Inpop Records debut. Their double disc INPOP worship and rock albums are expected to release in the next couple of months.

Passion 06 opened at the Gaylord Entertainment Center in downtown Nashville at full conference capacity with 18,000 in attendance. Artist-worship leaders included Charlie Hall, David Crowder Band, Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, Shane and Shane, Nathan and Christy Nockels, and many others. The Passion 06 CD will release in the next few months.

Souljahz’ new single S.O.S. (Support Our Service members) is available at itunes for download. This is to help ease the restlessness until the label decides to release a new project.

MercyMe wowed The Tonight Show crowd on December 21st as they performed the song “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” from their “Christmas Sessions” CD.
April 25th sees the release of a rockier Mercyme CD, “Coming Up To Breathe”.

Derek Webb, eyebrow-raiser, controversial, button pusher? of course... While his songs are pointed and blunt and honest, Derek maintains that these topics need to be addressed. “Mockingbird” is his latest effort and with a Bob Dylan/Johnny Cash/Woody Guthrie fervor he’s not backing down and he hopes that all will give his songs a chance. Check out www.inorecords.com and www.derekwebb.com for more info on Derek and his musical escapades.

Canadian Southern gospel singer Warren Parker of the Parker Trio recently had a good deed go horribly wrong. His wife and friends on their tour bus witnessed Warren being struck by a truck, sandwiching him against the bus, injuring him fatally as he was attending the scene of an accident. Keep his family and friends in prayer. Donations (if desired) can be made to: Parker Outreach International P.O. Box 296 Pickering, Ontario L1V 2R4

DJ Andy Hunter and wife recently welcomed to this world, Evie Hope Hunter.
She was born December 12, 2005, weighing in at 8 pounds and 4 ounces.

2006 Shai Awards Cancelled. Vibe Gospel Music President Dionne Smith has announced that Vibe Gospel Music will not be presenting the Shai Awards in 2006. The event was originally planned for the city of Winnipeg this spring. In an online statement, Smith says that 2006 will be a year of restructuring to ensure the Shai’s longevity. The Shai Awards (originally called the Vibe Awards) is a Canadian “People’s Choice” awards for Gospel music artists. Visit www.shaiawards.com for further details.

Casting Crowns, Brian Doerksen and Hillsong United topped the 2005 Chart at Canadian retailers.

After leaving Word records, becoming an indie band, getting picked up by Centricity Records, and then having Word records pick up the distribution of their new label, it’s been a full circle for the band Downhere. Currently in the studio with Grammy nominated producer, (U2, Gwen Stefani) Greg Collins.
So far 6 songs are being worked on. Stay tuned for more info.

March 14th marks the release of “Rise” from Building 429.


Wuzzup?

Blindside's, The Great Depression released August 2nd along with a video for the 1st hit off the CD called 'Fell in Love with the Game.'

The String Quartet Tribute to Switchfoot (available now) and coming soon, The String Quartet Tribute to ReliantK (releases November 1st) are available through www.tmrpro.com. Mark Rubenstein is the mastermind behind these and many other unique tribute CD' s. Mark has done String quartet tributes for bands like Dashboard Confessional, Coldplay, 3 Doors Down, Rush, Sum41, t he Beatles U2 , and many others.

Brian Littrell's (Backstreet Boys) solo debut on Reunion Records has been pushed to an early 2006 release date to give more time to craft the very best CD he can. Brian is currently on tour with The Backstreet Boys promoting their new release Never Gone.

MuteMath's new CD will be delayed till the 1st quarter of 2006. The band promises that the new 12 song cd will not contain any of the songs off the previous 5 song EP.

Plumb's Chaotic Resolve will be left to boil for a few more months until the 1st part of 2006 as well. The CD was slated for an Aug. release and then bumped to September now they're saying it will be released in February.

On September 27th our depravity met His divinity and a beautiful collision occurred. David Crowder Band released their A Beautiful Collision CD and this 18 song disc captures a musical journey of cool instrumentation, with flirtations of bluegrass a' la Hank Williams Sr.'s 'I Saw The Light' and a tip of the hat to Sufjan Stephens and Loretta Lynn's 'Everyone Wants to Go to Heaven' This is an exquisite CD that anyone who loves current modern worship that is out-of-the-box great.

Also just released is the new cd by T-Bone called Bone-A-Fied.

Newsong experienced a close call on July 31st when their tour bus and trailer blew a tire and crashed. No one was hurt, but the bus and trailer were pretty banged up.

October 4th will see releases by Kirk Franklin Hero and La Symphony Disappear.

Sixpence None the Richer may be done but Leigh Nash will continue to spread the love with a new solo disc in the 1st part of 2006.

The movie industry is embracing Christian music more than ever lately. TobyMac ('Slam') is in the trailer for 'Transporter 2' and Bethany Dillon ('Dreamer') is in the movie 'Dreamer' and many others are scheduled to include music by Christian artists in the near future.

King's X (www.myspace.com/tytabor) and Juliana Theory (www.purevolume.com/thejulianatheory) both have new songs online that you need to hear.

Stryper's yellow-and-black attack are back, and their cd Reborn is HOT!! This is the best Stryper album period.

Ginny Owen's Long Way Home will see the light of day on October 11th. 10 tracks of fresh pop.

JOY- Joy Electric’s Ministry Of Archers released August 30th and showcases a much different vibe. It is an interesting CD and should be checked out.

Lou Gramm, the unforgettable voice of Foreigner (hits like 'I Wanna Know What Love Is' and 'I’ve Been Waiting For A Girl Like You') is set to release his 1st Christian cd later this year. Stay tuned for more details. A Switch(foot) took place recently when copies of their new CD Nothing Is Sound was accidentally placed in Audio Adrenaline's Until My Heart Caves In CD cases. Several fans were blessed with the new disc but were asked to send it back to the record company and they would receive Audio A’s and Switchfoot's new CD's free, proving that nothing is sound.

March 4th Caedmon’s Call will release In the Company of Angels-The World Will Sing.

Third Day's Wherever You Are is releasing November 1st and will feature 3 different collector covers.

Skillet is hard at work on the follow-up to their Collide CD. About 9 songs are written and another 8 or 9 are in the works. Check out www.skillet.com for more details.

Mark December 6th on the calendar cause' P.O.D. will unleash their highly anticipated new project called Testify on the planet. Christmas will see the new release of Point of Grace and their Winter Wonderland CD. Michael W. Smith guests on their rendition of his 'All Is Well' hit.

Pam Morales-Dietz, the only female member ever in the 40 year history of The Imperials recently died in a car crash.

This fall The Imposter will be released. Kevin Max’s musical genious will be heard and loved by all. Check www.kevinmax.com for more details.

Liberty And Justice’s Soundtrack of a Soul will release soon. Contributors include Mike Lee (Barren Cross), Joe Deservio (Trans Siberian Orchestra), Stephen Percy (Ratt), Oni Logan (Lynch Mob), Ted Poley (Danger Danger), Jamie Rowe (Guardian), Dale Thomson (Bride), Ez Gomer (Jet Circus), Josh Kramer (Saint), Scott Wenzel (Whitecross), and many others. Visit www.libertyandjustice.net for soundbites and up-to-date info on this exciting Christian retro project.

Glass Harp (featuring Phil Keaggy) will have their first 3 records (Makes Me Glad, Synergy, and Glass Harp) re-released on CD with unreleased tracks and bonus material on November 8th. Music Mill Entertainment will be handling the releases.


Wuzzup?

John Michael Talbot, one of Christian Music's most beloved and long-standing artists is releasing Monk Rock, a CD that returns his focus to his rock roots with an all-electric project harnessing the talents of some of the industry's top players. It releases August 16th.

Stryper Reborn is also releasing August 16th and this CD of all new songs sports a harder, more current edge without taking away from the classic Stryper essence.

Derek Webb's How to Kill or Be Killed DVD on INO Records releases Oct. 11th

Nov. 1st, Third Day will release a new (not yet titled) disc and ex Kansas band member John Elefante will release his new Dust in the Wind CD

Do these songs sound familiar? All Star United Go West Young Man, Sarah Kelly You Need a Saviour, Shaun Groves Rocketown, David Crowder Band Secret Ambition, Taylor Sorensen Lamu, Todd Agnew On the Other Side, Tree 63 Missing Person, Ryan Smith The Race Is On, Plumb Pray for Me, Stryper Friends. They are all Michael W. Smith songs and Rocketown Records releases it on Aug 2nd The Ultimate Music Makeover-The Songs Of Michael W. Smith

TobyMac – Renovating Diverse City (a re-mix CD of Welcome To Diverse City) and Casting Crowns Lifesong (featuring 'Love Them Like Jesus' and 'Praise You In This Place') will both release August 30/05

Nothing Is Sound By Switchfoot was set to release along side Thousand Foot Krutch's Art Of Breaking on July 19th but has been held back till Sept.

Dan Smith, author of that clever Christian rap parody called 'Baby Got Book' (based on the Sir-Mix-A lot song 'Baby Got Back') is set to release his Caucasian Invasion CD to the masses soon. You can get it at www.whiteboydj.com/store.html

Petra has decided to pack it up. As of December the band will no longer be. From the ashes though, comes a new CD called Project Damage Control featuring John Schlitt and Louie Weaver as guest artists. It's the closest thing you'll get to a new Petra rock album. Purchase it at www.projectdamagecontrol.com/merchandise.html Also be sure to check them out live at the Thurston County Fair on Aug 7th (near Olympia Wa.). Go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/fair for more details.

Pax217 has also decided to call it quits. David Tosti, the band's singer will continue his speaking engagements for www.xxxchurch.com.

Thursday Aug 18th you'll want to be at the Northwest Wa. Fair in Lynden to see Jars Of Clay in concert.

Amy Grant's new reality show 3 Wishes joins NBC's fall 8-9 p.m. slot on Fridays. The show grants 3 wishes to people in need. This is a 'Pay it forward' meets 'Extreme Home Makeover' concept.

Larry Norman celebrated another birthday and felt better, so on Friday June 24th he celebrated his good health with a concert and a CD of the performance (available to purchase right after), and the next day there was a BBQ at his brother Charlie's place. For those who stayed over till Monday, they were treated to a tour of Salem Oregon by Larry and a trip to his favourite Greek restaurant. Definitely an experience to remember!!

Back To The Blues Festival is officially happening! Aug. 12-14 in Chilliwack, BC. Featured guests include, The Glen Kaiser Band, Darrell Mansfield, Larry Howard, Graham Ord, Firstborn Live, White Moses And The Fury and many others. $50 gets you a weekend of rockin' blues fun and a chicken dinner on Saturday!

On average a Christian rap CD sells about 5,000-7,000 units in its lifetime. Ambassador The Thesis (he's a member of Cross Movement) has sold 35,000 units in just a few months, jacking up the interest of rap that's positive.

Jon Cox (the man with an acoustic Led Zeppelin sound) is set to release his CD Sanctuary this summer. Go to www.joncox.com for more info.

Canadian Idol finalist Shane Wiebe just released his self titled CD. Find it at House Of James.

David Phelps is releasing his solo album, Life Is A Church, September 27. He also has decided to leave the Gaither Vocal Band to pursue a solo ministry full time.

An Inspirational soundtrack CD, Music Inspired By: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, featuring Steven Curtis Chapman Remembering You, Jars of Clay Waiting for the World to Fall, Jeremy Camp Open Your Eyes, TobyMac, Nichole Nordeman I Will Believe, Rebecca St. James Lion, Delirious Stronger, Kutless, Bethany Dillon Hero, Chris Tomlin You're The One and David Crowder Band. This Inspirational CD will release on September 27th

Ex-Korn Guitarist Brian "Head" Welch, (formerly of Korn) recently converted to Christianity, is working on a new record. There is also a documentary being made about his life and conversion.

Ron Winans, a legendary Gospel artist and member of the Gospel group, the Winans, passed away on Friday, June 17, 2005 from complications due to pneumonia.


Wuzzup?

TobyMac is working with various producers to remix songs from Welcome to Diverse City for a brand new remix album in the same vein as Remix:Momentum. Also, with the release of The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (December 9th), TobyMac will have a track on an album of artists inspired by the movie.

Narnia:The Lion The Witch And The Wardrobe will release in theatres this Christmas. Soundtracks of music it inspired by will be released in support of the film. Stay tuned for more details and visit the Narnia Movie Site www.narnia.com

Mat Kearney has recently recorded five new songs for his mainstream debut on Columbia/Aware Records. The new release, expected this Fall, is to be his 2004 InPop release Bullet with the new songs added on. Some tracks from the original disc may have to be cut.

Krystal Meyers, (16 yrs old) Essential recording artist is about to hit stores with her Avril Lavigne sounding release. This will be a healthy alternative and a fresh new sound for Christian music.

New InPop act Casting Pearls (fronted by Newsboy Bryan Olesen{who replaced Jody Davis}) Pure guitar rock with pop anthems that aim to make the listener move and groove. It will also feature guest vocals from fellow newsboy Phil Joel.

Also making her InPop debut is German artist Sarah Brendel. She will release her cd on July 19th. Sarah will bring her alternative-rock style of electric guitars, atmospheric sounds and great lyrics to North America and all will see and hear the sounds of now!!

With The Crowder Show online 24/7 at www.acollisioniscoming.com. David and band will be pushing the boundaries of worship. The band is giving fans an exclusive to A Collision (releasing Sept. 27). The recording is taking place in David Crowder’s new studio built in the historical barn in Waco, TX where Pepper the horse once lived, and the birthplace of the Dr Pepper soft drink formula.

Petra announces that by the end of the year, the band will cease to exist. Bob Hartman and John Schlitt feel it is time to retire the band, so catch them live while you can.

Canadian artist Riley Armstrong returns with La Loop. For more details, visit RileyArmstrong.com, or 7spinmusic.com.

Tonex's 1997 hit The Good Song has been re-recorded and used in the latest instalment of the XXX series "State of the Union". The movie features over a minute of the song, from the album Pronounced Toe-Nay.

Wes King is still in hospital dealing with with cancer and various other ailments. Please pray for him.

Angel Wars, the animated action DVD about angels battling fallen spirits, has a new instalment in the series coming out. Guardian Force 2, will be in stores August 2nd.

The Choir’s new CD O How The Mighty Have Fallen has been release and is available at www.thechior.net


Wuzzup?

While April 1st is considered April Fools Day, you won't get any tricks here. Just the meat and potatoes, baby. And a plug about my Birthday wish (the last paragraph eludes to it) Dj Maj is set to drop his 4th disc in July. Guest appearances by Manchild of Mars Ill, T Bone, LA Symphony, KJ52, Tonex, Toby Mac & more.

John Reuben is sneaking back into the fold with a new disc. Boy vs. The Cynic releases June 21st and will feature Matt Theissen (ReliantK) helping out a bit.

DJ wizard, Andy Hunter will be spinnin' out some newbies May 26th. Life (a 6 song EP) will showcase to all, what the Matrix & Microsoft already knows!!

Those who have followed Steve Taylor, know that he is hard at work on a new movie starring Michael W. Smith. They want everyone to vote on which movie poster should be used for the release into theatres. Go to www.thesecondchancemovie.com/posterpoll.php to vote.

KJ52 fans that bought the new disc "Behind the Muzik" may be wondering where the hidden tracks are? Well your not gonna find them on the disc! Turns out the inserts were printed before the CD went to pressing and unfortunately the disc did not have enough room for the extra tracks. So KJ is encouraging people to go to www.soundclick.com/kj52 to listen to the extra tracks until itunes has a chance to get them available.

Stryper is back!! That's right all you metal heads, the band with the angelic vocals are hard at work on their new cd. All new material and a tour will hopefully head our way this summer.

Ian Eskelin has been busy writing and demoing for a new All Star United EP, tentatively titled "Love and Radiation", due late summer. In the meantime check out Ian's new solo disc called "Save The Humans".

Pillar's disc "Where Do We Go From Here" is re-releasing on May 24. The Limited Edition will be featuring a new full length Pillar DVD produced by lead singer Rob Beckley, and will include their version of "Sunday Bloody Sunday", and a 5.1 mix of "Bring Me Down," and a remix of "Bring Me Down" (The Underground Mix) and the acoustic version of "Further From Myself," and much more!

FM Static (featuring members of Thousand Foot Krutch) is set to release a new piece of work this summer.

Lymphoma has latched onto Christian music pioneer Wes King, but after a few tests, it was found that there is no cancer in the bone marrow! On the week of the 14th of March, Wes went in for Chemo treatments to fight the lymphoma. A Message/Prayer Board has been set up at www.wesking.com for more information.

Former Korn guitarist Brian "Head" Welch has left Korn and has embraced Christianity and is already making a difference in the lives of thousands of young people, Giving his testimony at churches.

U2's Bono was recently nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize. This is his second time he has been nominated.

That Christian 'parody' band, Apologetix recently unearthed a 40 song, 2 disc set of new hits and old favourites. "New And Used Hits" is in stores now and features parodies of Eminem, Bare Naked Ladies, Guns And Roses and many others. Also coming soon is their new "Apol-acoustix" acoustic best of.

Jars Of Clay has done it again! Mar. 22nd saw the birth of "Redemption Songs", an album of civil war songs and old hymns (Jazzed up Jars Of Clay style). This CD is nothing like you've ever heard! Featured guests include Sarah Kelly, Martin Smith (Delirious?), and The Blind Boys Of Alabama.

Speaking of The Blind Boys, they've recently had their share of ups and downs. A New CD (Atom Bomb) released Mar. 15th (Songs include "Spirit In The Sky" "Talk About Suffering", and Eric Clapton's "Presence Of The Lord" and an appearance by rapper Gift Of Gab from Blackalicious on "Demons"). In sadder news, founding member George Scott (the bass singer with the never ending note holding capability) has passsed away, leaving only 3 original members to carry on (with the help of Caleb Butler, Joey Williams and Tracy Pierce). They will be at the Chan Center (UBC) April 11th. I think any black gospel/blues fan should go and see this amazing show. I'll be there for sure! House Of James will be giving away tickets to this show. Must enter in person. That's all for now. Stay tuned for amazing insights into the world of Christian music.


Wuzzup?

Ps.40.3, a worship album featuring Jason Morant, Dave Lubben, Lamont Hiebert (Ten Shekel Shirt) & Glenn Packiam is set to release soon. With no drum loops, the all live instrumentation will be a pleasing experience for worship leaders. Included is U2's "40", & besides 3 other covers, the album is all original penned material.

Speaking of U2, did you know that Adam Clayton was in Malaysia during the devastating tsunami?? He was not hurt, but he suggests that everyone helps out anyway he or she can.

Larry Norman, the Father of Christian Rock is said to be in very poor health and because he cannot perform to raise money for much needed surgery and rehabilitation, he's asked for those who would like to help out, to buy cds, and if led, to donate to a medical fund. See larrynorman.com for more information.

After releasing a very effective EP, Subseven (Flicker records) is set to release their first full length record "Free To Conquer" March 15th. The straight up rock 'n' roll meets heavy metal sound is sure to light a fire under any rocker's feet.

Reece Roper, Five iron Frenzy's ex-frontman and new frontman for the band Roper, recently got married and also stated that the final "Five Iron" DVD is well on its way to being finished. It is rumoured to be 2-6 hours in length.

Take the lead singer of Kutless, throw in Jeremy Camp, stir in a little bit of Rebecca St. James and put them all together with KJ 52 and you get "Behind The Music". It was released Feb. 1st to the delight of every rap fan. Check it out.

Canadian hopefuls Hawk Nelson are already busy at work on their sophomore effort on Tooth and Nail Records, and in the next few months will glide through the area on the X2005 tour with Falling Up, KJ 52, Seventh Day Slumber and more. In April and may the boys will join Toby Mac and Audio Adrenaline on their Worldwide Diverse City tour.

Speaking of Audio Adrenaline, they've finally settled on a name for their next release. It was to be "Undefeated" but got voted off the island in place of "Until My Heart Caves In".

Waking Ashland and Far-less are two recently added artists to Tooth And Nails ever expanding roster.

To worship news now, Lincoln Brewster is back in action.? The June release is said to have a live feel to it.? Check out Linconbrewster.com for more details.

Mark April 12th on your calendars for the new Starflyer release "Talking Voice VS Singing Voice". Also, there are some re-issues in the works for the bands "Silver" and "Gold" albums.

Look out world... One of Christian music's most loved artists is back and is determined to be heard and seen. Bryan Duncan's new DVD and cd called "Music City Live" released Feb. 25th. Check out bryand.com for more details.

If you like ReliantK, or Hawk Nelson, then you'll flip over Stellar Kart. Their "All Gas. No Brake" CD released Feb 15th. They even tackle Bon Jovi's "Livin On A Prayer".

In retro rewind news...check this out...After a year of bands retiring, Guardian is set to return and burn. A best of with 3 new songs as well as an exclusive DVD are in the works. Check out www.myspace.com/guardian for updates. Also uncovered is the exciting news that Whitecross plans on getting back together to record and possibly tour. The new/old sound is said to be reminiscent of their famous "Hammer And Nails" cd. In Sadder news, Michael Bloodgood (Bloodgood band) is seriously ill with problems that have left some of his vocal chords, the left side of his tongue, and part of his ability to swallow in the state of paralysis.

Look out rap-core fanatics...? New artist, Benjamin exploded onto the scene Feb 1st. A cross between P.O.D., Toby Mac, Kutless and Pillar, earthsuit this Lebanon, Oregon artist is set to rock your world.

The Choir is hard at work on new material and as well, they have a new DVD of long out-of-print videos now available at www.thechoir.net.

David Crowder Band "Sunsets And Sushi-Experiments in Deconstruction" will release soon and highlights fantastic remixes off of the "Illuminate" disc.? Songs include "How Great", "Open Skies", "Revolutionary Love" "O Praise Him (All This For A King)" and four others.

Upcoming releases include, Jaci Velasquez's fresh new groove called "Beauty Has Grace" on March 29th, Kids In The Way's new album called "Apparitions Of Melody" releasing May 10th, Lifehouse's self titled disc releasing March 29th, Annointed's "Now Is The Time" due out April 5th, Amy Grant's follow-up to "Legacy-Hymns Of Faith" May 3rd, and Zoe Girl's "Room To Breathe" out March 15th.

Speaking of March 15th, Steven Curtis Chapman will drop "The Abby Road Sessions/The Walk", a cd/DVD combo that day.

Plumb is finishing up her "Chaotic Resolve" cd and getting ready to have a baby. Her time is also being spent writing a book called "Damaged", stories about women being abused. Check out plumbinfo.com for more details.

Avalon is already back in the studio working on new material.

Steve Green released "Somewhere Between", his 25th studio album on Feb. 15th.? the new cd is said to sound somewhere in-between Andrea Bocelli and Josh Grobin.

March sees the release of Susan Ashton/Christine Dente (Out Of The Grey)/Michelle Tumes new worship offering. "Lost In Wonder-Voices Of Worship" includes such hits as "Beautiful One", "Here I Am To Worship", and many others.

Superchic(K)'s new cd is almost ready... More details coming soon.

Geoff Moore is working on not one but two cd's!!? 22 songs will be divided into two cd's called "Every Single Voice Vol. 1 & 2". It will include new songs and new renditions of past favorites.

Kevin Max recently signed with the indie label Northern Records. He also has a new EP out called "Between The Fence And The Universe" and has recently been involved in "Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat".

Like groups like Finch, Further Seems Forever, Dashboard Confessional, Mae, Blindside - then hold on cause Provident records is thrusting 16 year old rock/punker Krystal Myers at you, so watch out!

P.O.D., Blindside and Project86 are all feverishly at work on new projects, and the hardest of them all, Extol is set to unearth their "The Blueprint Dives" March 29th. Mae's "The Everglow" also releases that same day.

Canada eh!!? Starfield (Canada's own sweethearts) have announced the departure of drummer John Andrews and that their present technical director/past drummer Adrian will be filling in till a replacement is found.

Joy Electic's eighth cd called "Ministry of Archers" (fourth in the Legacy series) will release in August.

This spring is full of new, fun releases and great concerts here and abroad.? I'll keep you posted.


Wuzzup?

Michael W. Smith recently traveled to the U.K. to collaborate with Martin Smith (Delirious?) for his new release and whilst there, he hung with Bono and U2. They privied Mike to a listen to some of the tracks on their "How to Dismantle An Atomic Bomb", and Michael even jammed with the band and played Hammond B3 organ on a few cuts. The jam did not culminate into a spot on U2's disc, but it sure sounds like fun!

Canadian, Matt Brouwer has returned! His new project, "Unlearning" is available from his website (MattBro.com). "Unlearning" will release in stores hopefully in January.

Like e-bay?? How about Canadian rockers Downhere? How about Jeremy Thiessen from previously said band? There is an opportunity to bid on Jeremy's dreadlocks on e-bay, so get a piece of Canadian history today!

Thousand Foot Krutch newest endeavour "The Art Of Breaking" is currently being recorded. Arnold Lanni (Simple Plan, Our Lady Peace) is producing and will release March 29th.

Canadian pop/worship sensation, Starfield is currently working on their second release (with enough material left over for a 3rd disc) Expect it sometime in the first quarter of 2005.

Amy Grant is at it again... She'll be following up her "Legacy Of Hymns And Faith" cd in the first quarter of next year. Amy also recently reported that she will leave her Mainstream label A&M, siting that she just doesn't fit their demographic anymore.

Check out the new band Day Of Fire. The CDROM portion of the disc gives great insight into the life and times of Joshua Brown (lead singer) and his former band Full Devil Jacket and his near death experience that led him to Christ. For fans of Creed, Seether and Nickelback.

MXPX are rockin' the free world once again with a new DVD (B-Movie) and a new ep (AC-EP) Be sure to check them out!!

With Big Dismal's recent success with their 2 new songs that were featured on the "Songs Of The Passion Of Jesus Christ", I am sad to report that the band has split up. Lead singer Eric Durrance plans on pursuing a solo career.

Jars of Clay's new project of hymns and spirituals is called "Redemption Songs" and is set for a March 22nd release. Expect to hear familiar hymns like "It Is Well" in true Jars Of Clay-style.

Bleach may have disbanded, but the music lives on. "Farewell Old Friends" is scheduled to release March 1st.

Also on March first, expect "The Answer To The Question-Extended Edition" by South African band Tree63. In their homeland of South Africa, there is apparently an unauthorized best of collection being sold that is said not to be up to Tree63 or the public's standards?

Out Of Eden's sixth album " Hymns" will include a duet with Tree63's John Ellis as well as the band's bassist Daniel Ornellas and drummer Thinus Odendaal on the song "Praise To The Lord." Out of Eden's "Hymns" will release on March 29. Produced in full by group member Lisa Kimmey, it includes 11 songs ranging from traditional hymns such as "His Eye Is On The Sparrow," "My Tribute," and "Fairest Lord Jesus" with two newly penned songs by Kimmey entitled "Forgiveness" and "Vision Of Love." The praise song "Better Is One Day" will also be included on this collection.

Apologetix (that Christian parody band) recently released their "New And Used Hits-The Best Of Apologetix Vol. 1& 2" with 40 songs (including 18 new tracks). Check out www.apologetix.com for more info.

KJ52 (the Eminem sounding gem) is giving fans some teaser music from his upcoming "Behind The Musik" cd. Check out www.behindthemusik.com to hear "Are You Real" (featuring Jon Micah of Kutless).

Pure evolution has just occurred!? BEC Recordings has announced the signing of Seventh Day Slumber to its roster, and will release the bands "Once Upon A Shattered Life" cd in Febuary. Aaron Sprinkle (Thousand Foot Krutch,
Kutless) produced the new cd.


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