Jesusfreakhideout.com Music News: March 2004

March 2004

*Wednesday, March 31st, 2004*

5 Minute Walk Records have just signed former Five Iron Frenzy frontman, Reese Roper, to a new record deal. His new band will be called Roper and will most likely be a four piece with music that will be very fun, upbeat, pop-punk in style, and will have the same great lyrical content Reese is known for! Reese will head into the studio with producer Masaki Liu in May to record the album, and hopes to have the CD release in early October. Reese is really excited to work on new material and get back on the road. Speaking of Five Iron Frenzy, the band's CD, The End Is Here, will release to stores in three weeks. The End Is Here double-disc features the live recording from Five Iron’s final show (to an over-capacity crowd in Denver on 11/22/03), their final studio album, The End Is Near (which was only available online and on the farewell tour), plus a new song, “The Cross of St. Andrew,” from the studio recordings. The first disc includes 19 live tracks and disc two with 14 tracks. The album packaging features a thirty-two page booklet with illustrations by celebrated artist Douglas TenNapel and a collector's poster with live shots from the farewell tour last Fall. And for those wondering about Reese's former project, Guerilla Rodeo, they are still deciding what to do with that band, but Reese has decided not to be a part of it so that he can work on Roper full time.

Eight years into what has been a whirlwind career for the Orange County natives, Project 86 are returning to their roots, releasing their fourth studio album entitled, Songs to Burn Your Bridges By, June 1, 2004 on Tooth & Nail Records. The band, begun in early 1996 as young musicians bonding in their common musical interests and personal beliefs, was almost immediately a hit, garnering label interest not only in California, but also as far north as Seattle, Washington, where Tooth & Nail owner Brandon Ebel recognized and signed the group in 1998. From that point, Tooth & Nail hosted Project 86’s successful premiere self-titled album (1996), and followed it with their hit sophomore release, Drawing Black Lines. (2000) which also brought attention from major labels such as Atlantic Records, who eventually licensed Drawing Black Lines as a joint effort with Tooth & Nail. Their third album, Truthless Heroes, a darker, follow-up to their previous effort, came next. Though with the timing of it’s release, in 2002, as record companies were struggling, and paying little attention to actual new artist development, Project 86 seemed far from a priority for Atlantic. In 2003 the band parted ways not only with both record labels, but with their management company as well. From there the band worked independently, gaining new management (Zambooie Artists Management), beginning their own production company, “Team Black Recordings,” and started recording a new record themselves, eventually persuading Matt Hyde (Slayer, No Doubt) to join them in their efforts. Seeming more like an evolution from Drawing Black Lines than the ominous direction Truthless Heroes took, Ebel recognized the transformation as a welcome change. And from there the band and label began talks, first in healing their relationship and joining forces for the upcoming project. “’Drawing Black Lines has been my favorite Project 86 release, and I love the new direction this album is taking, as a continuation to that Drawing Black Lines, “ Ebel explains, adding, “We are very excited to put out Songs to Burn Your Bridges By, and we feel honored that Project 86 chose us again and is trusting us with their future career.” Lead vocalist, Andrew Schwab shares Ebel’s sentiment saying, "In a time when the music industry is dying rapidly, Tooth and Nail is one of the only labels that is having any success. We were very blessed to mend our relationship with them and move forward to get our music out to the world. I feel like this move, as well as many others that have been happening internally in our band, is a return to our roots both spiritually and mentally. We talked to many labels about distributing our record, but Tooth & Nail was the one that offered us the most advantageous situation. We feel that our fans will appreciate the fact that both sides made huge efforts to move forward from the past into a successful future."

Here's an update from Skillet's John Cooper about the pending rerelease of their 2003 release Collide... "As most of you know we are gearing up for a mainstream release on Lava Records. I have never been this excited about the band before because this will be the first chance we have had to be played to a big audience. It's still all about the message and the mission, and it always will be. The release is going to be May 25. There will be new song added to the release called "Open Wounds." The track was just recorded about two weeks ago in Chicago. It will be the third song on the record right after "Savior." It will also probably be our second mainstream radio release. The new album will also have some exclusive video footage. This is basically a mixture of live performance video and backstage shots, as well as a few interview segments about the record. In addition to the release, "Savior" is getting released to mainstream radio in about three weeks (April 12). This is only a few days after my birthday... no point in saying that really (but bring me toys)."

GRAMMY Award winning Audio Adrenaline has once again struck a chord with listeners with their latest single, “Leaving 99,” which claimed the #1 spot on CHR charts this week and continues to climb landing on #3 on AC radio (R&R). This song is based on the parable of the lost sheep (Matthew 18:12-14) and the lengths The Father would go to find you! The effect of “Leaving 99” goes beyond the radio waves, as an AudioA fan who was moved by the meaning of the song recently launched a nationally recognized website aptly titled HITList99.com. Katy McWhirter is the individual behind this grassroots campaign to track the penetration of AudioA’s song among listeners worldwide. The website houses listeners’ testimonies, the band’s inspiration for the song, a media page, and many other features. “I decided to create a website that will track God’s impact of the song “Leaving 99” on the people who hear it,” Katy says. “The band has helped me in so many ways, so I thought it would be cool if I could help them somehow. My desire is that this site will draw people in, and that they can see how much of a blessing “Leaving 99” really is.” The emotional testimonies stand out as being life-changing experiences. One listener writes, “During my senior year, I attempted suicide, but thanks to God, I survived. The summer after I had graduated, I went to see Audio Adrenaline, but I wasn’t in the best emotional state. But then ‘Leaving 99’ started playing, and that was all I needed to hear. I just broke down…He’d kept me alive even when I was willing to sacrifice everything to escape the life he’d given me. He DID come back to find me!” Check out http://www.HITList99.com for more testimonies and the impact of “Leaving 99.”

Tooth & Nail Records wants to know... Can you make ringtones? The label recently announced a new contest in their latest newsletter, "Are you up for the challenge? We're asking both new and old Dead Poetic alike fans to create a ringtone for the first single, "New Medicines." Listen closely to "New Medicines" at purevolume.com and then email your ringtone to us. The best sounding ringtone will be posted on this site and the winner will receive a huge Dead Poetic prize package! Check out the New Medicines site for more info! http://www.new-medicines.com" Sounds cool so get ringin'!

Fervent Records, label home to Big Daddy Weave, BarlowGirl, By The Tree and Jill Phillips, is proud to announce the signing of new pop trio Palisade to its roster. “We are very excited to have Palisade as part of the Fervent family,” says Susan Riley, founder and president of Fervent Records. “Jeremy, Brandon and Ashley are extremely talented, and they have a genuine passion for spreading the Gospel through their music. We look forward to standing beside them and taking them to the next level in their ministry.” Recently signing to GOA, Inc. for booking, the trio’s self-titled label debut, which releases July 20, was produced by Jeromy Deibler of FFH and features songs written by Palisade, Deibler and other acclaimed writers including Reuben Morgan, Mark Schultz and Scott Krippayne. “After I heard Palisade for the first time, I just had to work with them because they had such great potential,” says Deibler, who has become a mentor to the trio. “The band has amazingly tight harmonies, and their blend of high-energy pop and power ballads are sure to make a splash with listeners across the nation. It is truly a pleasure to be working with these guys.”

Enter The Worship Circle and Grassroots Music Distribution announce the March 18 release of Chair and Microphone Vol. 1 featuring Ben Pasley, the creative force behind the previous Enter The Worship Circle recordings, which have sold more than 100,000 units combined. Continuing in the development of eclectic music that blends spiritual conversations and modern music, Chair and Microphone Vol. 1 spotlights the songwriting and performing talents of Ben Pasley, 100 Portraits, who not only wrote all of the songs on the album, but produced them as well with no overdubs and only a handful of microphones. Describing the vulnerable nature of such a recording Ben Pasley says, “For a musical era where slick production, vocal pitch correction, and glossy promo is the norm, doing a project like Chair and Microphone, Vol. 1 is both frightening and freeing. I have written songs in the quiet of my living room for years, but I usually imagine, even during the writing process, the other instruments and the other artists, that will accompany the final song. To write songs knowing they would have to stand-alone was a challenge both to my musical ego and to my musical ability. I have a great admiration for those singer-songwriters who, as a creative commitment, write and perform in the vulnerable loneliness of the ‘Chair and Microphone’ styling. “On the other hand,” continues Pasley, “being able to write a song, record it in the same hour and then change it on a whim the next day without concern for any greater arrangement was an incredibly freeing experience. Several songs were recorded right from the loose, hand-written notes of my journal, filled out in front of the microphone improvisation ally, and then simply left alone because they felt complete. This is the way I like my concerts, and now, I can say, that it also is an intense way to make a record.”

*Friday, March 26th, 2004*

Newsboys are offering a very limited edition, live 2-CD set, from each of four of the shows from the sell-out Adoration Worship Tour! Only 2,000 individually numbered, high fidelity, premium packaged CD collectible recorded sets per show will ever be produced! You can secure yours today in advance for $22 at DiscLive.com or purchase your copy during the show at one of the DiscLive merchandise stands! The dates for these recordings are March 25 in Milwaukee, March 26 in Chicago, March 27 in Minneapolis, and March 28 in Minot!

Hard to believe, but Caedmon's Call has been around for just over a decade now and to commemorate this milestone, Essential Records is proud to introduce the limited-edition release of Chronicles in stores April 6th. Chronicles gathers the best of Caedmon's Call to date into the ultimate collector's package. It includes rarities, remixes, live favorites, and two brand-new songs. Featured titles on this special project include "Lead of Love," "Hope to Carry On," "Thankful", the radio version of "Hands of the Potter" and lots more. Don't forget- it's a limited release, so once it's gone, it's gone! You can pre-order your copy of Chronicles now at MusiChristian.com!

Grammy Award winning singer Rebecca St. James, who was Hollywood bound this week for a performance at the presentation of the 12th Annual “MOVIEGUIDE® AWARDS,” guested on MSNBC’s “Scarborough Country” this past week to talk about The Passion Of The Christ, and Mel Gibson’s recent announcement that his next project may center around the story of Hanukkah’s historical origins in the Bible. “Mel is getting people to think beyond the here and now into the eternal with The Passion, noted the 26 year old singer who describes Gibson’s movie as “one of the most loving movies that’s ever been created. When we see graphically how Jesus suffered to take the sins of the whole world on His shoulders — that’s passionate love,” commented the singer on MSNBC. She applauds Mel’s plans for more biblical projects. St. James believes that Hollywood’s most successful ‘epics’ to come are buried within the pages of the Bible—and that the next wave of blockbuster entertainment may well be found in unearthing them. The 26 year old Australian is herself about to hit Hollywood with her own portrayal of a Bible character. She comes to the Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles on April 23rd as lead actress in the controversial rock opera musical “!Hero,” which will re-launch on national tour on April 13th. A first run of performances last fall produced sell-outs. The character St. James portrays is “Maggie”-- a modern day Mary Magdalene—a much different reading than the Mary Magdalene currently portrayed by Monica Bellucci in Gibson’s The Passion of The Christ. “‘!Hero’ is set in a bleak, godless post modern New York of the future,” noted St. James in a recent interview. “My character of Maggie is a drug addicted girl of the streets with shattered dreams and no hope of a future until she encounters Jesus. The setting is different but the wonderful story of the transforming and redeeming power of meeting Jesus is the same,” said Rebecca St. James.

Multiple Dove-nominated Word Records band downhere is preparing to launch the philanthropic "Will Play for Food" national tour, together with co-headliners Jonah33 and Pivetplex. Presented by Air1 Radio, the tour will begin April 3 with appearances in California and Arizona, and continue to an additional 25 cities nationally in Fall 2004. The "Will Play for Food" Tour is being presented to encourage fans to express their love for those suffering from hunger, poverty and disease. Concert-goers will be encouraged to put their faith in action by sponsoring a child, going on a short-term mission trip or serving as a volunteer with world-relief organization and tour sponsor, Food for the Hungry. downhere and their fellow tour mates hope to inspire others to give up some luxuries in order to express their love for the poor, and will lead by example through foregoing hotels and restaurants to stay with host families, and serving meals to fans during the tour. Food for the Hungry, a Christian international charity, is devoted to helping people throughout the world overcome physical and spiritual hunger. The organization helps impoverished people secure clean sources of water, educates them on various agricultural techniques, and promotes community development by providing small business loans. "Everyone has needs, but Food for the Hungry is something that people can grasp onto as a practical way to step outside of themselves, take a risk, and give," downhere's Marc Martel said. He hoped the bands will connect with others on the "Will Play for Food" Tour who will join them in the fight against the apathy, cynicism and materialism that mark much of today's modern lifestyles, even that of Christians.

Don't miss MercyMe in their Big Screen Concert Premiere - One Night Only - Tuesday, April 13 at 7:30 pm only in select Regal movie theatres near you! This inspirational evening includes never-before seen footage from MercyMe’s “The Imagine Tour” and features inspirational insights from Max Lucado, best selling author of “It’s Not About Me” and “Next Door Savior”. MercyMe's brand new album Undone streets April 20th!

Sara Groves has good reason to be excited to be back out on the road in 2004. After nearly a year off the road, Sara is touring with special guest will be Joel Hanson of PFR fame who has been writing and singing some of the best music of his career during this independent season. Groves will be traveling with a full band this time around so you won't want to miss it (keys, guitar, drums, hand percussion and bass)!

For a few more weeks a limited edition CD is available free when you purchase Jeremy Camp's Stay album or new Carred Me: The Worship Project from Family Christian Bookstores (you can check out www.familychristian.com for all locations near you). The CD features an interview with Jeremy, plus 3 exclusive songs!

Christian recording group, Go Fish, kicked off a recent Marriage Rally in Minneapolis by singing the national anthem to an estimated crowd of three-thousand people. The event was attended by Minnesota Governor, Tim Pawlenty, who was also a keynote speaker. The rally was in support of a proposed constitutional amendment that defines marriage partners, as a man and a woman. Also on hand for the event were the bill’s co-sponsors, Minnesota State Representative, Mary Liz Holberg and Minnesota Senator, Michele Bachmann.

With an incredible introduction at retail and radio, BarlowGirl holds the second highest first month Christian retail sales total for all new artists releasing since January 2003, according to the Nielsen SoundScan charts. Fervent Records' BarlowGirl is on track to become one of the best selling new artists in recent years. "The excitement for BarlowGirl is still gaining momentum at retail," said Don Noes, sr. vice president of distribution for Provident Music Distribution. "Retailers love these girls because their music is relevant to kids and their message is music to parents' ears! We expect BarlowGirl to be one of our biggest Christian retail success stories for 2004." "Fervent Records is proud to be a part of the growing story of BarlowGirl. As we see the girls out on the road and visiting retail and radio, we are grateful to see the blessings that follow them," said Susan Riley, owner/president of Fervent Records, which is establishing a strong track record for debuting new artists. Fervent is also home to Big Daddy Weave who holds the best first month sales for a new artist in 2002 at Christian Retail for its Fervent debut One & Only.

Following Christafari's 2003 European tour, founder and lead vocalist Mark Mohr and his wife Avion followed the Lord's undeniable lead and moved to Trinidad and Tobago, a twin island country in the southeastern Caribbean. After about a month in Trinidad, it became clear why God had brought them there. "After studying the Christian churches of Trinidad I found a major void," said Mark. "While many churches may have a good youth group, when a teenager finishes high school, he/she is stuck with two choices: become a youth leader, or attend their church's general service which can be tough for a 17 year-old teen who watches more BET than TBN." After this realization and much prayer, the Mohrs set out to plant "The Gathering" in the city of St. James. The Gathering is redefining the Christian church for today's young adults in Trinidad and Tobago. "It's kind of a Church 2.0," says Mohr. "Before starting The Gathering, I studied the Gospels, the book of Acts, and the Epistles. Comparing that Biblical church model to the typical church of today, it didn't take long to realize most of today's churches carry a lot of excess baggage, jam packed with empty traditions." The Gathering is founded on four key pillars: Worship, Instruction, Fellowship and Evangelism (W.I.F.E.). Climbing the stairs to the Gathering for their Monday meetings, one quickly realizes it's not a typical Trinidadian church. There are no pews, no pulpit, and no steeple. There are a few chairs in the back, but most attendees recline on a couch or a pillow.

ILLECT Recordings is proud to announce the signing of L.A. Symphony member Flynn to a solo album contract with the new Northwest based hip-hop label. The new album In Like Flynn will hit stores later this spring, on May 4th. Guest appearance by fellow members of his crew, L.A. Symphony, join Flynn on his third solo effort. As one of the founding members of the highly renowned L.A. Symphony crew (currently on Gotee Records), and also as an accomplished solo artist and producer, Flynn stands out as one of the premier residents of Hip-Hop’s left coast. With this latest solo effort, Dove award nominated Flynn offers the listener more of what the fans have come to expect from him over the years: intricate, neck jerkin’ beats, seasoned with just the right amount of honest, insightful and plainly innovative lyricism. In Like Flynn is impassioned and refined - an album that's grown out of many dues being paid and life lessons being learned. On the journey of discipleship, it’s not unusual for us to be brought down low in order to be brought up high. It’s all about a deeper rooting in the truest joy, the kind that only comes from knowing Christ beyond our sometimes-difficult circumstances. When all's said and done, Flynn is an artist and performer that takes to heart the words of the 37th Psalm: "Delight yourself in the LORD; and He will give you the desires of your heart". This album is his unique invitation to the listener to meditate on that certainty.

Casting Crowns, the “fastest-selling new artist of 2003,” continues to see a rise in sales as its self-titled debut once again claimed the No. 1 position on the Nielsen SoundScan Top Christian Album chart. This is the second consecutive week for the No. 1 position and the 9th time since its release on Sept. 30, 2003. The album also saw a No. 1 position on Billboard’s Heatseekers chart the week of March 13 and is now sitting at No. 80 on its Top 100 Albums chart (for the week ending April 3.) The band’s second single, “Who Am I” has been gaining momentum at radio. The single was the most added for two weeks straight at on the Christian Adult Contemporary chart and this week broke into the Top 10 on both Radio & Records and Christian Radio Weekly’s AC charts. “Who Am I” is currently No. 9 on R&R and No. 6 on CRW charts. The song is impacting close to 6 million listeners. Andrew Patton, vp of national promotions, Provident Label Group, notes, “After only three weeks of airplay, ‘Who Am I’ is already the No. 1 testing song at KLOVE and WAY-FM's ‘Total Axxess’ syndicated show. Like ‘If We Are The Body,’ this single has taken on a life of its own, finding exceptional listener acceptance from the first spin.” *Friday, March 19th, 2004*

Flicker Records’ modern rock band Everyday Sunday is preparing for the release of Anthems For The Imperfect, the follow-up to the band’s highly acclaimed 2002 debut, Stand Up. To support the launch of the album, Everyday Sunday will hit 19 cities in only 20 days on the “Imperfect” promotional tour, beginning May 14, with special guest and labelmate Kids In the Way. Sponsored by leading guitar manufacturer Epiphone, the tour will offer fans a chance to win a custom “Everyday Sunday” Epiphone guitar every night of the tour. Made up of Trey Pearson (lead vocals), Andrew Martin (guitar), Dan Hunter (bass), Chris Hines (drums) and newest member Jason Siemer (guitar), Everyday Sunday delivers the same diversity and solid pop sound on Anthems For The Imperfect that drew a multitude of fans for Stand Up and made the band one of CCM Magazine readers’ top three “Favorite New Artists of 2003.” The band adds a deepened maturity to the new project, however, writing all of the album’s songs themselves and working with returning producer Quinlan (Rebecca St. James, Plus One, Margaret Becker), who also co-produced Stand Up. From May 14 through June 1, Everyday Sunday will aggressively promote Anthems For the Imperfect on the “Imperfect” Tour, beginning in the band’s hometown of Columbus, Ohio, and continuing to such cities as Chicago, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Dallas, Minneapolis, and Tulsa. On each night of the tour, a custom “Everyday Sunday” guitar from Epiphone, played by the band at the show, will be given away to one lucky fan. Fans can register to win the guitar by pre-ordering their copy of Anthems For the Imperfect at retail or online, or they can register at the “Imperfect” Tour concert in their area, where they must be present to win. In addition, radio stations around the country will be giving away copies of Anthems... in the Everyday Sunday win-it-before-you-can-buy-it promotion, automatically registering any CD winner for the guitar giveaway! Anthems For the Imperfect releases May 18th!

It's official! After going Gold in November 2003, Switchfoot's latest album, The Beautiful Letdown, has officially gone Platinum (1 million copies). After enjoying 14 weeks in the Billboard top ten with their debut single "Meant To Live," Switchfoot is preparing to launch their second single "Dare You To Move" this month with the support of a brand new video that is finishing up as we speak. Also, a 4-song Live EP from the San Diego concert DVD, available exclusively at iTunes. If you have iTunes, click this link to go to the EP! Their live DVD, Switchfoot: Live In San Diego releases Tuesday (March 23)!

For the third straight week, Integrity Music/Sony Music's The Passion of The Christ original motion picture soundtrack remained atop the Billboard Contemporary Christian and Soundtrack charts, selling 38,623 units for the week ending March 14. The album was at #23 on the Billboard Top 200 Sales charts. Meanwhile, the film also remains at #1 at the box office. Its domestic gross tickets sales as of Mar. 15, 2004 were $267,680,889, moving The Passion of The Christ to #22 on the all time box office charts. John Debney, composer of the original motion picture soundtrack from The Passion of The Christ, will appear on the "Today Show," on Good Friday, April 9. The "Today Show" airs on NBC from 7-9 a.m. Debney's appearance will be similar to that of his well-received performance on the "Tonight Show with Jay Leno," last week. According to Daniel McGuffey, chief marketing officer for Integrity Media, the Passion soundtrack will be certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America within weeks. Integrity Music and Sony Music have already shipped more than 450,000 units to eager retailers who cannot keep the CD in stock. "Obviously the record, like the film, has taken on a life of its own. No one could have imagined the impact that Mel Gibson's 'The Passion of The Christ' might have on this country. It is an understatement to say that we are all overwhelmingly humbled by the response. We see no slowing down of consumer demand for the record until well after Easter," said McGuffey. A "Passion of The Christ" radio single, "The Resurrection," featuring score and dialogue excerpts, goes for adds at Christian radio on March 18. Early response from radio has been very positive, McGuffey said.

On March 23, INO Records’ artist, Sara Groves will release The Other Side of Something, and has partnered with CRW, INO Records, and www.ProgramDirector.net to host “The One Thing I Know” Free Concert Contest. This fun and in-depth contest was a perfect avenue for Sara to show her support and appreciation for Christian radio and its ability to touch listeners’ lives. “In many cities, Christian radio is giving a voice to the body of Christ in that area, and because music is non-denominational, it sets the stage for a healthy conversation among believers in that community,” Sara says. “Troy and I have noticed that in communities that don't have Christian radio, sometimes there is a lack of conversation among the churches in that area. There can be four churches on four corners, but there is no sense of community among them.” The contest, which ran during the month of February, consisted of a “virtual scavenger hunt” for radio programmers, incorporating the Internet, email, and phone to find clues and directions leading to the grand prize. The winning station, WBSN New Orleans, was chosen from a random drawing of radio programmers who completed the interactive steps in the virtual scavenger hunt. “Christian radio has been a significant partner with us since the beginning of my musical journey—I’m excited to finally get a chance to take my show to New Orleans and visit with WBSN/Lifesongs - plus, you just have to love a name like Libby,” Sara says.

“Untitled Hymn (Come to Jesus),” the third radio single from Chris Rice’s highly popular Run the Earth… Watch the Sky, hit No. 1 in the past two weeks on both CRW and R&R Inspirational radio charts, marking the 11th chart-topping song of Rice’s career and the third Top 5 track from his current album. Rocketown Records Chairman and Grammy-award winning artist Michael W. Smith notes, “‘Untitled Hymn (Come to Jesus)’ is a powerful and personal song of worship and hope. I performed this song during the recording of my Worship Again record, and I continue to be impacted by the simple, inspiring lyric and beautiful music. Chris has written a masterpiece!" Jon Rivers, the music director for the KLOVE Radio Network and the host for “20 The Countdown Magazine,” adds, “’Untitled Hymn (Come to Jesus)’ may well be a musical treasure that many will miss because it seems like an unlikely ‘radio’ song (I dislike that term—a great song is a great song). But it simply must be heard and when it is, it captivates the audience. They, after all, are the reason we exist."

Celebrated composer and performer Michael W. Smith is in the spotlight again, this time as his song, the instrumental “Carol Ann” was selected to run with the debut Bush-Cheney spot for the President’s 2004 re-election campaign. The song is the third track on Smith’s 2000 acclaimed instrumental CD titled, Freedom. “I’m honored that the President would select ‘Carol Ann’ as part of his first ad campaign for reelection,” notes Smith. “When I wrote the song, I never thought it’d be part of one of the most followed campaigns in recent history.” To view the spot, please visit: http://www.georgewbush.com/tvads

For those who haven't yet heard, here is the latest on the future of rock band Further Seems Forever... "Hello all,
After much thought and receiving countless e-mails of support and encouragement from our fans, we (Josh, Chad, Steve and Derick) have decided to continue writing and performing music as Further Seems Forever. We had previously announced our certain disbandment to start a new project but changed our minds when an exciting possibility arose. We began talking to a singer who we greatly admired and after many phone conversations and meeting him face to face to play music, we have decided to continue as Further Seems Forever.
We are extremely excited to announce that Jon Bunch, formerly the vocalist for the veteran rock group Sense Field, will be taking over vocal duties for Further Seems Forever. We can’t tell you how honored we are to have a singer of this quality to make music and inspire people along with us. We have been fans of Sense Field’s music for a long time and are overjoyed to find out that Jon is not only a great singer and lyricist, but also an even greater person. Jon will be doing vocals for our up-coming album to be released this summer on Tooth and Nail Records. We will be touring and functioning as a working group once again. We appreciate the support of everyone who has stood by us through these recent events and look forward to being back bigger and better than ever. Stay tuned to our website for exciting news and tour dates.
We are just getting started,
Further Seems Forever"

If your favorite track from Blindside's new record About A Burning Fire happens to be the first single "All Of Us", then you should visit the blindside artist page at MTV.com where they have an exclusive new recording of the song for download. Recorded by the band in Sweden, this is blindside continuing to push the boundaries of what they do... a band that never repeat themselves or allow compromise to cloud their musical judgment. Download the new recording of 'All Of Us' now – follow the link below. http://www.mtv.com/bands/az/blindside/artist.jhtml

Fusebox is putting the final touches on their long-awaited follow-up to 2002's Lost In Worship. Their sophomore project, Once Again, will be released by Elevate Records and Inpop Records on June 15, 2004. "This is really my first album in a lot of ways because it’s gotten to the point where I stand behind it all," notes lead singer Billy Buchanan, who wrote or co-wrote seven of the album's ten songs. "There’s something on the album for everyone." Much of the album's versatility can be traced to Fusebox’s tag team with a wide array of producers, including Third Day’s Mac Powell, Otto Price, Quinlan, Joel Smallbone, Ainslie Grosser, and Buchanan himself. "My heart as a writer is to get the message out there in a way that can be related to," says Buchanan. "From there I surrender it to God and let Him take care of all the other details." Marketing highlights for Once Again will include heavy touring, an official street team, and extensive promotion at Christian radio. The title track will be the first radio single from the project (penned by Matt Redman).

Dove-nominated singer/songwriter duo Shane Barnard and Shane Everett, collectively known as Shane & Shane, are preparing for the release of a special, fan-oriented project titled Upstairs. Releasing for Inpop Records on May 18, Upstairs will offer the group’s fans six new songs and four new versions of previously released favorites. “Shane & Shane have a great fan following, due to their constant touring over the last five years, and Upstairs is a project for those fans,” said Steve Ford, general manager for Inpop. “We pursued the concept of a more acoustic project because the fans have been requesting it since Shane & Shane have been with Inpop. This record reflects what you will hear in a concert setting - sparse production, great acoustic guitar performances and the amazing voices of Shane & Shane.” Produced by Shane & Shane, Upstairs will introduce six new songs to the duo’s fans as well as featuring new versions of “Psalm 13,” “Beauty For Ashes,” “The Answer” and “I Want It All.” Primarily acoustic in style, Upstairs offers the prolific songwriters a chance to share their creative passion in a unique way. “Honestly, it’s amazing that this record even happened,” explained Barnard. “Choosing to do an album ‘on the side’ during probably the busiest time of our lives may have been a little ambitious. But something happened, and once again, by God’s grace, we don’t really know how. Over the course of six days, we began picking and tapping on literally whatever was in arm’s reach, and hoped for the best. We pray God will use these hodge-podge noises and feeble words to highlight truth and deepen a longing and a love-sickness for Jesus.”

The six Oregon natives, collectively known as Falling Up have come a long way since their inception five years ago while they were still just high school freshman. Though spotted by the label via fellow friends and now labelmates, Kutless, Falling Up are proving they can stand their own ground, and perhaps stand it even more strongly than their predecessors. In fact, it was Kutless who, just weeks ago, held the record for all-time best sales first week for a debut artist. That was, of course, prior to Falling Up’s debut release, Crashings hit stores February 24th and shattered the Kutless claim on the record, scanning 3,396 copies in their first week out. But their successes don’t stop there. Even weeks before Crashings was released to stores, its debut single, “Broken Heart,” was working itself up R&R’s Christian Rock Radio Charts, acquiring more listeners and airplay as weeks passed, finally taking the #1 position to mark their first radio hit as a band. It was Kutless again who, just the week prior, had held that position with their single, “Treason.” Now working on maintaining their #1 position with the single, the Falling Up members couldn’t be happier, and even joke about the “rivalry” that has begun between the two groups. “It’s like Proverbs 20:29,” explains vocalist Jesse Ribordy with a laugh. “The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old. We just try and do something new and exciting.” Then continues on with obvious sincerity, “Seriously though, it’s an honor to be even compared to Kutless or put in the same class as them. They’ve been our friends for years and helped get us signed. We really owe them a lot and they’re great guys. We feel privileged to be touring with them too.”

The sophomore release from Dead Poetic will be in stores on Tuesday, April 6th! New Medicines is being said to deliver the cure in every way, shape, and form. Check out the band's new website and then download the title track at purevolume.com! http://www.deadpoetic.com | http://www.purevolume.com/deadpoetic

Combining her passion for God and an eloquent creative vision, EMI CMG Label Group will release the highly anticipated self-titled debut of singer/songwriter Bethany Dillon April 20th. “Bethany possesses a rare honesty and genuineness as an artist,” shares Brad O’Donnell, VP of A&R, EMI CMG Label Group. “She is a deep well of creativity, which is the hallmark of a great artist." Produced by Ed Cash (Bebo Norman) and Josh Moore (Caedmon's Call), Bethany Dillon is an artist whose music delves into the themes of the modern Christian's heart and journey from the very first note. Her profound song-writing and accessible acoustic-rock sound allows her to connect with music listeners of all ages, with her thoughtful, poignant and enriching music. Dillon has seen early success with the limited retail release of her 5-song EP The Beautiful Sessions, which features her first single "Beautiful", and was the #1 top selling disc on Grassroots.com for two weeks as well as the #1 selling EP for the month of February. In addition, "Beautiful" is currently #16 with a bullet on R&R's Christian CHR Top 30 chart and #14 with a bullet on R&R's Christian AC Top 30 chart. This spring Dillon will join Shane & Shane on a spring tour starting mid-April going through mid-May. A complete list of dates will be available on www.bethanydillon.com.

Dove Award-winning and best-selling group Plus One is embarking on the “Exodus ‘04” Tour, the band’s first headline tour in two years. Featuring Plus One’s revolutionized blend of Brit-influenced modern rock and a five-piece live band, the “Exodus ‘04” Tour will deliver songs from the band’s acclaimed latest Inpop Records release, Exodus. Hitting 30 cities nationally between April 15 and May 23, the “Exodus ‘04” Tour will feature special guests Telecast, Hawk Nelson and Jadon Lavik. The “Exodus ‘04” Tour will treat its audience to an aggressive mix of both new songs from Exodus and transformed rock versions of the songs that first took Plus One as a boy-band style pop act to the top of the radio charts, along with bringing them a 2001 Dove Award for “New Artist of the Year.” The band has reinvented both its sound and its approach to touring, putting their focus now on creating an approachable, fan-oriented concert environment. The tour will focus on markets with more intimate venues like Christian universities, clubs and small halls where Plus One can interact directly with their fans, and where the band will deliver a powerful, full-scale rock show while keeping the ticket price affordable for families and students. To that end, “Exodus ‘04” Tour tickets will be priced far less than the average rock concert, at $10.00 for students and $12.50 for adults. “Peter [Furler] and I completely believe in Plus One, and as a label, we’re committed to seeing them succeed with this new direction,” said Wes Campbell, co-owner and CEO of Inpop Records. “We’ve invested in them on every level, and are expecting great things for this tour.”

Top contemporary Christian pop act FFH kicked-off the third leg of the “Ready To Fly” tour to a sold out crowd of hometown fans March 4 in Nashville, Tenn. Featuring Fervent Records’ Big Daddy Weave and Creative Trust Workshop’s Warren Barfield, the “Ready To Fly” tour will visit over 20 markets in the next two months. FFH’s current single “Good To Be Free” is heating up Christian Adult Contemporary and Inspirational radio charts. Provident Label Group is running a spring tour radio contest, “It’s Good To Be FFH” in which winners get to perform on stage with FFH, join the artists backstage for dinner and attend sound check among other perks. Big Daddy Weave recently released its latest single “Heart Cries Holy” to AC and CHR formats.

An instrumental version of the song “Thank You” from John Reuben’s last record Hindsight were featured on a recent episode of MTV’s new show “Pimp My Ride”. Last night's show featured several more John Reuben songs from Professional Rapper such as “Freedom to Feel”, “Have No Opinion” and “Jammin’ John and Mixin’ Manny”. Songs from Reuben's labelmates Grits and LA Symphony were also featured as well.

Casting Crowns, boasting the title as the “fastest-selling new artist of 2003,” continues to gain momentum as its self-titled debut broke into Billboard’s Top 100 Albums chart this week. Last week Casting Crowns claimed the No. 1 position on the Billboard Heatseekers chart. The band’s self-titled, debut album, released Sept. 30, 2003, is also holding steady as the No. 1 Year-To-Date Christian Album for 2004. Since its release, Casting Crowns has scanned more than 200,000 copies. The band’s second single, “Who Am I” is making a huge impact at Christian radio. Last week it was, again, the most added Christian Adult Contemporary song in the nation and the highest debut on Radio and Record’s Christian AC chart and is impacting more than 4 million listeners. The song also was No. 1 on the Top Christian Singles/Tracks chart.

Recently wrapping up their 9th Annual Winter Jam Tour with record-breaking attendance, GRAMMY-nominated artist NewSong announced that they are parting ways with their label home at Reunion Records to develop a new label venture, which has yet to be named. “We’re grateful for the people who worked to make NewSong successful for more than a dozen years at Provident and its predecessors,” explains Eddie Carswell, one of NewSong’s founding members. “Over the past 5 years, NewSong has been discussing how we could produce and promote our own projects and develop tomorrow’s Christian music ministries. Now we have the chance to pursue these dreams. As these plans are formalized, we look forward to announcing how we can better serve Christ, His Church, and a waiting world.” “We know that the industry is changing, and we’re excited about being part of a new label model for the future,” explains NewSong’s manager, Troy VanLiere of VanLiere-Wilcox. “Not only has the Lord been planting these desires in NewSong for a long time, but He has been preparing them along the way. During this period, they have hired their own radio promoters, retained their own national and tour publicists, and branded their ‘Jam Tour’ and ‘Xtreme Conference’ events, in addition to overseeing the production of their albums. As a result, their past three albums have sold over three-quarter million units and their concert ministry, evangelism outreach, and mission impact has never been stronger.” News of this move comes upon the band’s completion of their ninth and most successful Winter Jam Tour ever with over 115,000 in attendance. Besides NewSong, the tour featured an all-star artist line-up including Audio Adrenaline, Relient K, Todd Agnew, and new Sparrow Records artist Jadyn Maria. Dubbed as the “All New Winter Jam Spectacular,” the show’s format was overhauled to give it a fresh appearance including full video and performances by illusionist Brock Gill.

Taylor Sorensen, the newest artist in the Rocketown family, is partnering with Pura Vida Coffee in a promotional tour across the Midwest in support of his full-length March 23 debut, The Overflow. Sorensen will spend the latter half of March visiting radio, retail and media gatekeepers along with stopping at several college campuses to play concerts and speak on behalf of Pura Vida Coffee, a Seattle-based, charitably-owned specialty coffee company. The 23-year-old artist is also currently celebrating his first No. 1 radio hit with The Overflow’s debut single, “Love Somebody Else,” topping the CRW Rock chart the week before the album streets. Sorensen’s partnership with Pura Vida stems from his ongoing interest in the Fair Trade movement and his firm belief that love needs to be about action, an idea that is also the theme of The Overflow. Pura Vida uses all of its resources to benefit at-risk children and their families in coffee-growing countries. The company is committed to carry only certified Fair Trade, organic, shade-grown coffee which helps to raise living standards for farmers and their communities and protect the environment. Sorensen will be playing songs from The Overflow and talking about Pura Vida’s mission at nearly a dozen campuses across the MidWest including Notre Dame, Bethel College, Loyola University, Trinity International, Hope College, Valparaiso and Calvin College. Sorensen will also be opening a show for Over the Rhine at Indiana Wesleyan University during his two-week promo run.

*Tuesday, March 9th, 2004*

Skillet's voice, John Cooper announced some pretty big band happenings yesterday in their email list... "As I have mentioned in my e-mails, there has been a lot of big things happening for Skillet. There have been many changes and many struggles. I also mentioned that there have been many great things happening for us as well. I have been reluctant to announce this until we were positive it was going to happen, and we are now sure that it is the right time. We have been signed to Lava Records, which is a division of Atlantic Records! What that really means is that we are going to have a chance to be played on mainstream radio and video shows. We have believed for a long time that this move would be in our future. I have prayed for many years that God would use my music to bring hope to people. God spoke to me when I was young about this, and I have known for a long time that in His time He would open doors. The biggest reason that these doors have not opened in the past was because of the message behind our music. Well, we consider that to be our biggest strength, and we continue to pray that we will be used to affect lives. We will need your prayers and support more than ever now. I have continued to thank you guys for praying for us and supporting us. I have always known that you are the reason that we have remained strong during hard times. We are asking God to use us during this period, and I know that trials lay ahead. I also know that there are going to be those who don't understand why we are doing this and will have questions. There is no way that I can answer all of those questions in this e-mail, but let me say that we are certain that this is what God has called us to do. I also would like to ask that you panheads continue your support for us in terms of radio. We want to come out strong with this release so that we can make a big dent in the mainstream world. Speaking of radio, our first mainstream radio release will be "Savior." It is getting released to hard rock radio on April 11. The album Collide will be released to mainstream retail on May 25. Sometimes you can find our albums in Target or Walmart in the Christian music section, but now it will be available in the rock section. The mainstream release of Collide will have one extra song that has just been recorded. There might also be some "behind-the-scenes" footage added as well. This is the most exciting thing that has ever happened to Skillet, and we hope that all of you are excited as well!! Again, we thank you for your support! Stay strong. - john" Congrats guys!!

Right now you can pre-order Third Day's new album Wire for a special low price! Yes, it is true. Not only can you pre-order your favorite band's new project, you can do it at a really low price! Plus, with your pre-order, you will get a link to unlock some exclusive web content on ThirdDay.com! Make sure to reserve your copy now for the May 4th release of Wire. Click here for more info!

Last week, Ethan of the Supertones announced yet another departure of an original member... "Hello Supertones fans,
Tonight we are in Houston, TX and I regret to inform you all that tomorrow in Denver, CO will be Darren Mettler's (aka the chief) last show with the Supertones. I know this comes very sudden to everyone but it also was sudden to all of us. The Chief has gotten a job offer to be a Jr. High youth pastor in Southern California. This is something that The Chief has had a passion for since well before the Supertones even started. I can assure all of you that this is best for The Chief as well as his family. The selfish part in us doesn't want to see him go, but understand that this is his calling. The circumstances could not have worked out any better for all of us. As much as I don't want the Chief to go, he is in a better place with his wife, 2 kids and a new job. The good news is that Chief will be touching kids lives still, only as a youth pastor. Another bit of good news is that my good friend, who is a trumpet player, happened to move in with me a week before the Chief told us this news. This worked out perfect. My good friend Bret Barker will be taking the Chief's place. Some of you may remember Bret, as he was the trumpet player from the W's. Bret is a great player and will add a ton to the band both as a player and as a person. Later this next week, I will post a letter from The Chief to all the fans, because you are all the reason we do this. One last thing, if any of you want to see The Chief play one last time, we are planning an album release show for June and The Chief will be playing this with us as his last OC show. More on that later. Rest assured that we ARE going to continue on. This was one of Chief's main concerns. Our purpose is ministry and it is still happening in a huge way, so look forward to more Supertones for a long while. Thank you everyone for bearing through this, it was hard for me to write. Expect a letter from Chief in the next week or so. God Bless you all!! SUPERTONE TO THE BONE!!
Ethan Luck" We wish Darren and his family the best in this new venture while welcoming Bret to the Tones!

EMI/CMG’s eminent rock band, Switchfoot, continues to seize mainstream radio as “Dare You To Move” becomes the No. 1 most-added song on Billboard’s Modern Rock Radio chart. With 22 adds this week alone, “Dare You To Move” surpassed all other new singles, including Godsmack’s “Running Blind,” the next most-added with 15. The song also jumps four places to No. 20 and climbing this week on the R & R Christian CHR Top 30 chart. In addition to modern rock success, Switchfoot’s “Meant to Live” also maintains its current upward momentum on Billboard’s Top 40 chart. The song moves up three notches, from No. 36 to No. 33, and is garnering more airplay every week. As Switchfoot’s critically-acclaimed 2003 release, The Beautiful Letdown, quickly approaches Platinum status after going Gold last November, the band is preparing to launch its headline tour with The Jealous Sound and Copeland later this month. Watch for upcoming Switchfoot appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, March 12, and On Air with Ryan Seacrest, March 16.

By The Tree is entering the studio this week with plans to record a worship record for a Summer 2004 release. The guys felt a redirection to worship needed to be taken for their lives and recording a worship record would be the best way to do it...

E.R.A.C.E., co-founded by tobyMac, recently released a 2004/2005 calendar called "Dream Kids." In conjunction with the "I Have a Dream" Kirk Franklin/tobyMac tour, children of all ages across the country were asked to draw a picture of what their dreams looked like. The calendar features some selections while also introducing some of the incredible organizations out there giving kids of all ages hope through education, mentoring, and love.

Congratulations to Blindside on the successful chart debut of their February 24 release About A Burning Fire! In an bizarre day the first chart position reported early last Wednesday morning was #50 – the bad was all very excited but then found out there had been an error in reporting and we the album had moved into the TOP 40 for a final position at #39. This was the highest Rock debut that week!

Wondering what Sarah Masen (aka Sarah Masen Dark) has been up to lately? As of last week, Sarah can be seen in Nashville starring in Anton Chekhov's The Cherry Orchard! The play is running from March 5-30 at the Darkhorse Theater on Charlotte Ave in Nashville!

While moviegoers were headed to the theaters in record numbers to see Mel Gibson's The Passion of The Christ in its first two weeks of release, the Integrity Music/Sony Music release of the original motion picture soundtrack sold 48,777 units in its debut week, according to Nielsen SoundScan, putting it atop both the Billboard Contemporary Christian and Soundtrack charts. The Passion of The Christ original motion picture soundtrack also entered the overall Billboard's Top 200 sales chart at #19. Only two other score-driven soundtracks - Star Wars, Episode I: The Phantom Menace and Star Wars, Episode II: Attack of the Clones - have sold more in their debut weeks. Directed and co-written by Mel Gibson, The Passion of The Christ dramatically and graphically captures the last 12 hours of Christ's life on Earth as based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Since its February 25 release, the film has earned a record $212 million as of March 7, according Box Office Mojo. "The response to Mel Gibson's film has obviously been beyond everyone's expectations, and we too were surprised, but pleased, as retailers confirmed all week the high demand for the soundtrack," said Daniel McGuffey, chief marketing officer for Integrity Media. "'The Passion' is an incomparably powerful and convicting movie and I believe that people are buying the The Passion of The Christ Original Soundtrack to keep alive the powerful emotions that they experienced during the film." Heading towards Easter, Sony Music Direct will undertake a mid March Direct Response television campaign in support of the soundtrack on national cable outlets while Integrity Direct launches a national radio campaign. A "Passion of The Christ" radio promotional montage featuring score and dialogue excerpts is also in production. The Passion of The Christ original motion picture soundtrack is the only recording that contains the music from the film. The film score, which was composed by John Debney, brings an atmospheric texture that complements the Caravaggio-inspired cinematography of the film. The soundtrack also features haunting vocals and chants provided by Shannon Kingsbury, Shankar and Gingger, the Transylvania State Philharmonic Choir, The London Voices and Mel Gibson, who co-produced the soundtrack with Debney. Debney, a three-time Emmy Award winner, has produced numerous motion picture soundtracks for box office favorites such as "Elf," "Bruce Almighty," "Spy Kids," "Cats & Dogs," "The Emperor's New Groove" and "The Princess Diaries."

Former ForeFront Records artist eLi is back with a brand new solo album! Visit www.elinews.com now for more information on how you can preorder his new record Gratitude!

One of Christian music’s most celebrated artists and revered leaders, Charlie Peacock, will release Full Circle: A Celebration of Songs and Friends today, March 9th, commemorating his 20-year anniversary as a solo recording artist. Special guest appearances by Avalon, Sara Groves, Sixpence None The Richer, Bart Millard, tobyMac, and others have joined in celebrating this special event by re-recording his most beloved songs as well as two brand new recordings. As an esteemed recording artist, songwriter, producer, author and teacher, Charlie Peacock is universally recognized as a respected voice within the Christian music industry. Among his many accolades, Charlie has received both a Dove and GRAMMY award as well as produced some of Christian music's most recognized artists such as Switchfoot, Nichole Nordeman, Avalon and Sara Groves. In conjunction with the release of his album, Peacock returns to the publishing world with the release of his second title, New Way To Be Human: A Provocative Look At What It Means To Follow Jesus, which is slated to hit stores on March 16th. Published by WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House, Inc., the book examines the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry, providing readers with a fresh framework for how to live as humans in the way Jesus modeled. In addition, Peacock will be on the west coast this spring promoting his new album and book at various universities and churches. Combining his gifts in music, writing, speaking and teaching, Peacock will spend several days on university and church campus’ performing and lecturing to students on assorted topics.

Revelation, the first solo project on Word Records for multiple Dove and GRAMMY Award-winning male vocalist David Phelps made a Top 10 sales debut this week with over 7000 units scanned. The project debuted at #8 on the SoundScan Christian retail sales chart and #10 on the combined retail sales chart. In addition, Revelation made its debut at #7 on Billboard’s “Heatseekers” chart, all coming on the heels of Phelps’ recent Dove Award nominations including “Male Vocalist of the Year.” The first-week sales success of Revelation follows a heavy week of promotional activities for Phelps including a live online artist chat on www.gaithernet.com, national radio and media appearances and a video shoot for “Arms Open Wide,” the first radio single from Revelation. The song, which has rapidly moved up the radio charts since its release, is currently Top 10 and climbing. Along with the project’s retail and radio success, Revelation marks yet another milestone as Word Records’ first project simultaneously released to traditional retail along with all major legal online downloading sites such as iTunes and Napster. “David’s vocal talent is undeniable, so it’s easy to understand why there has been such a quick and strong response to Revelation’s release,” said Mark Lusk, vice president of marketing for Word Records. “David has delivered a project that solidifies his place as one of Christian music’s premier male vocalists.”

Industry Veteran Hugh Robertson’s newly formed record label, Waterfront Records, recently announced its March 9 release of the Chillout series including Chillout… A Time To Worship and Chillout… The Worship Xperience. This series combines popular hits and worship songs and transforms them into new relaxing arrangements. Designed to help facilitate Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God…” Chillout transforms popular songs made famous by Mercy Me, dc talk, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and others, with such respective hits as “I Can Only Imagine,” “Jesus Freak,” “Long and Winding Road” and “Serve Somebody.” The new arrangements are designed to help the consumer find some quiet and calm to worship and chillout. Founder of Waterfront Records, a division of Waterfront Entertainment, Hugh Robertson, says, “These days, it's not enough to just throw 10-12 songs out with one or two hits. There needs to be a compelling reason for a consumer to purchase a whole album of songs: such as an artist with an established consumer base and well-developed brand or an album with multiple hit songs. Our first frontline project is the Chillout series which combines hit songs and new worship songs with a scriptural theme built around Psalm 46:10.” “The Chillout recordings directly target music consumers ages 16-28 who identify with the songs on the albums due to their popularity and exposure on the radio and in their church groups,” continues Robertson. “They can hum along to these familiar songs while focusing their full attention on worship.”