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Downhere Gets Wide-Eyed and Mystified

Dove Award-winning melodic alt-rockers Downhere return with Wide-Eyed And Mystified, the group's highly-anticipated third recording and Centricity Records debut. Produced by Mark Heimermann (Michael W. Smith, dcTalk), Greg Collins (U2, Gwen Stefani) and Downhere, Wide-Eyed And Mystified features 13 tracks, all written by the band.

"Working with Centricity on a new record has been a welcome breath of fresh air," said Downhere's Marc Martel. "Never before have I been so challenged in my songwriting, the result being a collection of some of the best stuff we've ever produced. Sonically, the essence of our identity as a band has been captured more than ever, thanks to the talent and experience of producers Mark Heimermann and Greg Collins. I cannot wait to present this entire album to our audience."

"We are so happy to finally have everything come together - new label, great producers, and great songs - and to come out with our best album yet," added Downhere's Glenn Lavender. "I feel like this album is a combination of all the best things from our previous two and we can't wait for people to hear it!"

"Working on this recording with Downhere was like an A&R person's dream," said John Mays, vice president, A&R, Centricity Records. "The guys are so musical, and so thoughtful, but also have a great work ethic and were committed to making music that wouldn't just comprise another CD project, but something we felt like would be an important contribution to the culture and the Church."

"By the time we were done, I think the guys had turned in close to 50 songs, so we feel really good about the 13 that made the CD," Mays continues. "I'm proud of the guys and all of the love and labor they poured into the this recording. I think we ended up with something special."

Highlights of the album include "Surrender," "Dying To Know You," "Unbelievable," "The Real Jesus" and "Little Is Much," a tribute to band members Jason Germain's and Marc Martel's fathers, who both serve as pastors. The album's debut singles, "The More" and "A Better Way," have been released to Christian CHR and AC radio, respectively.

Buy Downhere's new album Wide-Eyed And Mystified.

Watch a video of the "Wide-Eyed And Mystified" photo shoot.

Download Downhere's podcast.

Bryan Duncan Calls Christmas Album, "Best Record I've Ever Made"

Bryan Duncan and his NehoSoul Band spent the summer of 2005 recording Christmas songs. The resulting CD project A NehoSoul Christmas! is put out by Red Road Records. While Duncan introduced the NehoSoul band with 2004's Music City Live, this will be Bryan's first studio recording since Joyride (2000) and his first Christmas album since the best-selling Christmas is Jesus (1995).

“I’ve always wanted to do more of a soul-blues Christmas project,” says Duncan, who considered a disc of holiday favorites and originals a great way to introduce his band to the world at large. "While the last Christmas project soared with the choir and orchestra, this one intentionally steers away from trendy sounds and towards a more classic, timeless core."

The songs on A NehoSoul Christmas! range from deeply sacred ("O Holy Night," "Silent Night") to traditional ("Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "Winter Wonderland"), and includes a soon-to-be classic by Michael McDonald ("Peace") and a Duncan original called "This Christmas."

After 30 years in Christian music, 21 albums and over 1 million units sold, Bryan has never been more optimistic about his future. "A NehoSoul Christmas will go down in my book as the best record I’ve ever made," says Duncan. "And definitely the most enjoyable listening experience!"

Natalie Grant Brings Home the Reality of Child Prostitution

Natalie Grant is a popular Christian recording artist who has a passionate concern for children involved in the commercial sex industry. While watching a "Law and Order" episode she was exposed to the harsh reality of child trafficking in the United Sates, where children are exploited as cheap labor, many as sex slaves. Now, she is using her voice not only to create music but also to increase awareness about the sexual exploitation of children around the world.

Read more>>>

Audio Adrenaline's Until My Heart Caves In Rocking the Charts

Audio Adrenaline's Until My Heart Caves In released Aug. 30 to raving reviews from CCM, Christian Music Planet and Campus Life. Audio Adrenaline's "King," the first and multi-format hit single from the album, is already in the Top 25 on multiple radio charts and climbing. Here is what the critics continue to say:

"Jay Joyce's production allows room for the band to stretch their creative wings and capture more of their live sound... Until My Heart... merges the edge of bloom with the infectious catchiness of Underdog, all the while remaining fresh new territory for the band." - Jesus Freak Hideout

"Audio Adrenaline has been ministering as well as making music for over a decade. They've been doing it right, and Until My Heart Caves In captures their essence. It's sure to be a hit with all of their fans, and if you've somehow missed Audio A until now, this is your chance for some fun rock with lyrics that minister." - www.AlMenconi.com

Buy the album

Kurt Carr: Redefining A Multicultural Gospel

While there are plenty of recording artists who would classify their sound as "world music" or "global fusion," Kurt Carr and his seven-voice ensemble make music that is truly multi-cultural and international in scope. Their latest release, One Church, is one of the most adventuresome and exciting entries into the lexicon of modern Gospel. 

"I've felt God impressing on me that it was time to really reach out to the world with our music," says Kurt, "so it was very important to me to draw on the talents of people of different races, ages, nationalities and doctrinal backgrounds –- all to solidify the theme and the truth that we really are one church in Christ."

Kurt Carr's songs redefine the Gospel genre, from traditional foot-stompers and jamming urban/R&B, to exotic forays into world music eclecticism and gorgeous, reverential ballads.

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Michael W. Smith: Changing A Child's World

Comparing his life growing up in a small West Virginia town to the lives of children he's seen in Compassion projects, Michael W. Smith notes some similarities: "Kids are kids and kids everywhere seem to spend time playing in the streets," he says. "We throw rocks, balls, anything to create a game. But those similarities end when poverty is added to the situation.

"The first time I came face to face with that reality, it was overwhelming. I couldn't process all the sights, sounds and smells I was experiencing. I had gone from holding my own kids, safe and healthy in my own home, to holding a baby overseas who was probably not going to live much longer.

<<<Read more>>>

Jontez Keeps It Real with New Album

With the release of his debut album, "And So It Is...," Jontez is charting solo territory with his bold blend of pop, R&B, hip-hop and Latin influences. The gifted singer/songwriter and former member of God's Property has put forth a remarkable CD, full of faith-driven songs that celebrate life and humanity. Jontez' range of stylistic diversity manifests itself in such cuts as the riveting anthem, "Why Can't We - We Be Friends," the booming balladry of "That's What You Said," the flamenco flanked "Can't Get Enough" and the 50 Cent flavored "First Love." There's also "Call Me Your Own," an inspiration R&B ode to Jesus' unconditional love that could first be interpreted as coming from a boyfriend or girlfriend.

Regarding the origins of "And So It Is...," Jontez comments, "I feel like I have a lot on my heart to share and many different musical ideas to express. I've been in the middle of an enormous growing spurt musically and I think it shows in the songs I've written for my album."

"My goal is to present who I am and what I'm going through in a way that all can relate and be encouraged," he says.

Check out the album.

Read more about Jontez.

New Switchfoot Album Debuts at No. 3 on Billboard 200 Bestselling Albums Chart

The San Diego-based rock band Switchfoot debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 bestselling albums chart with true first week's sales of 131,000 of Nothing Is Sound, marking the band's best week's sales and highest charting album position to-date.  The group's previous album, the double-platinum smash The Beautiful Letdown, peaked at #16 on the Billboard 200, yielded two Top 5 hit singles,"Meant to Live" and "Dare You to Move," and has SoundScanned more than 2 million units in the US.

Nothing Is Sound, the band's fifth studio album, features the radio hit, "Stars," a #1 Most Added record at Modern Rock radio and a #1 Bubbling Under - Hot 100 Singles record. "Stars," the first single from Nothing Is Sound, is currently climbing a variety of charts.

Nothing Is Sound is available as both a traditional CD and as a DualDisc featuring the entire album in 5.1 Surround Sound plus exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of the band on-the road and in the studio.

"Nothing is Sound... will also be one of the biggest rock discs of the fall." - VH1.com

"The San Diego-based outfit picks up where their double-platinum album, 'The Beautiful Letdown,' left off, with a bracing mix of indelible hooks, turbo-charged rhythms, and Foreman's world-weary vocals." - Chicago Tribune

"If you don't like to think, stay away from Switchfoot's latest release Nothing is Sound. Oh sure, the 12 tracks are extremely listenable, thanks to the driving guitars and sing-along melodies that have become the band's signature sound. But like the band's last offering, The Beautiful Letdown, which launched Switchfoot to multi-platinum-selling mainstream success, there's more than meets the ear in the sounds of Sound." - www.gostudents.net

Order your limited edition with DVD, sticker, and button.

Holding A Grudge: A Thought From Bryan Duncan

There's an old man who sits every morning on the sidewalk in front of Otwell's Tire store in my town. He's been out there everyday since the first of the year... going on nine months!

He holds a sign that says "This place is a rip off." He's disgruntled about the work performed -- not on his vehicle, but the vehicle of someone he knows. I am astounded at his determination in the fields of resentment.

Read more of Bryan's thoughts>>>

Kristin Chenoweth Pays Tribute to Spiritual Roots in As I Am

Tony Award-winning singer/actress Kristin Chenoweth reaches back to her spiritual roots for her new album, As I Am. These roots were set down long before she began a career that most recently has taken her from Broadway’s Wicked to The West Wing. For the new recording, Chenoweth covers a wide range of inspirational material, from contemporary hits to traditional hymns and gospel favorites. The album is produced by Chris Harris, who has worked with such artists as Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and CeCe Winans. The recording was released on April 5, 2005.

Long before she embarked on her busy career in theater, films, and TV, Kristin Chenoweth was a deeply committed young woman who grew up singing in a Southern Baptist church in her native Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. She loves the music of her faith – from the hymns she sang in church to the powerful new sounds that have carved an entirely new niche in contemporary pop music – and it has always been a part of her creative life. As I Am is a celebration of that music, with producer Chris Harris creating arrangements for the 12 tracks that revisit some well-known music and also take full advantage of the operatic range of Chenoweth’s soprano voice.

<<<Read more>>>

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David Crowder Band Stretches Musical Boundaries, Releases First Book

David Crowder Band offers a brand new twist on songs from its No. 1 selling, critically acclaimed recording, Illuminate.  Released Feb. 15, Sunsets & Sushi - Experiments In Spectral Deconstruction  "deconstructs" songs from the Illuminate album and puts them back together again with a completely different, ambient-feeling musical interpretation.  Highlighting the band's introspective lyrical depth and creativity, this release offers never before released remixed versions of radio hits and concert favorites, including "Open Skies," "O Praise Him (All This For A King)" and more.

"This project was an amazing experience," says David Crowder about the band's first remix recording. "It's a rare opportunity to view one's songs through another's lens."

<<<Read more>>>

Check out the David Crowder Band's new CD

Sanctus Real Named Best Band by Christianity Today, Rakes in Dove Nominations

ChristianityToday.com recently voted Sanctus Real as Best Band and Matt Hammitt as Best Male Vocalist for 2004. Sanctus Real is in great company with the other nominees, which included Relient K, Switchfoot, Salvador and Mute Math. Finalists in the best male vocalist category included Bart from Mercy Me, Chris Tomlin, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Andy Chrisman from 4 Him. ChristianityToday.com has also voted Fight the Tide one of the best albums of 2004.

Sanctus Real has additionally received 4 Dove Award nominations from the Gospel Music Association.

Read more about Sanctus Real's awards.

Buy the album for $9.97

Scott Krippayne's Gentle Revolution

Highly acclaimed singer/songwriter Scott Krippayne's sixth studio album, Gentle Revolution, is in stores now.  The Spring Hill Music Group project, with its driving rhythms and guitar-based melodies, brings to light a level of artistry previously untapped from this multi-talented musician. 

Producer and music industry veteran Kent Hooper creatively collaborated with Krippayne on Gentle Revolution, to deliver musically an album with hints of rock, clashing orchestrations and unexpected dynamics. From the heart-pounding rhythm of the title cut to the riveting truth of "I Am Jesus," Krippayne re-defines his position in the music industry by reaching a new level

of lyrical depth and musical clarity, while staying true to his creative instincts.  Krippayne

admits that this ten-song CD represents his own spiritual journey over the last few years. 

<<<Read more>>>

Buy the album w/ AUTOGRAPH & FREE STICKER

Bryan Duncan Inks Deal with TAG Distribution

Music City Live CD & DVD Showcase Duncan At His Best

One of Christian music’s most endearing voices is back! Bryan Duncan's Red Road Records has signed an exclusive agreement with TAG Distribution, a division of TAG Artist Group, LLC.  With a new band and a refreshed outlook, Bryan is ready to prove once and for all that great singers only get better with age.

Bryan Duncan & The Nehosoul Band descended on a Nashville club earlier this year to perform a mix of new songs and popular favorites from his long career while cameras rolled. The result is a 60-minute live concert CD and DVD simply called Music City Live.

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Exit East Makes an Entrance

Joining successful label mates Big Daddy Weave, BarlowGirl and By The Tree, newly signed pop/rock band Exit East has hit the ground running with its brand new self-titled label debut.

Brad Avery of Third Day says, "I have had the pleasure of knowing these guys and experiencing them use their gifts on a regular basis. They have a passionate faith that spills over into everything they do. They are excellent leaders in worship, and tremendous leaders in service. They are gifted in weaving strong spiritual content with energized and heartfelt music."

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newsboys Deliver With devotion

The newsboys' album, devotion, follows the band's award-winning, Gold-selling Adoration: The Worship Album, which featured the No. 1 single "He Reigns" and generated the sold-out Adoration: The Tour earlier last year.

devotion's debut single, "presence (my heart's desire)," written by band frontman Peter Furler and acclaimed songwriter Tim Hughes, is currently boasting applause . The cut debuted by claiming top-5 spots on the R&R, CRW, Billboard and PD Advisor AC charts, and top-5 spots on the R&R, CRW and PD Advisor Inspo charts.

  Buy the album

Chris Tomlin's Album Shoots Up the Charts

One of the premier songwriters of today, sixsteps/Sparrow Records' Chris Tomlin released his critically acclaimed third studio album, Arriving, to high praise. The album features "Indescribable," Tomlin's first hit to ever reach No. 1 on radio. Producer Ed Cash (Caedmon's Call, Kathy Mattea, Bebo Norman, Bethany Dillon) calls it "one of the best songs I've ever heard." "It is the kind of song with the anthemic appeal of Darlene Zcech's 'Shout to the Lord' or Tim Hughes' 'Here I Am to Worship'… expect to hear it for some time to come," agrees CCM Magazine. "…I believe there's something really special about this song and this album," adds Steven Curtis Chapman.

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Stacie Orrico DVD

Check out Stacie Orrico's first concert DVD, Live In Japan. The disc features 15 live performance tracks including the hits "Stuck" and "(there's gotta be) More To Life." Also included on the disc are the music videos to "I Promise" and "I Could Be The One."

Buy the DVD

Toby Welcomes You To Diverse City

Toby's latest has been incubating for quite a while now … and it's been worth the wait. Welcome to Diverse City has it all: the smooth hip-hop grooves, the hyped up rock crunchers, the festival experience of guest artists, and even a new track with dcTalk.

Buy the album

Rebecca St. James Named "Best Female Artist" by Christianity Today

Christianity Today's 2004 Readers' Choice Christian Music Awards honored Rebecca St. James with the "Best Female Artist" Award for the second consecutive year.

"I'm continually wowed by Rebecca's enduring success in our Readers' Choice and other polls," says Russ Breimeier, online associate editor, ChristianityToday.com. "There are so many fresh and talented female Christian artists rising on the scene, and yet she still wins out in the popular vote thanks to regular touring, increasingly high-profile media appearances and a passion to minister to her generation. I think it speaks remarkably well of her relationship with the fans, her potential for career longevity and God's blessing on Rebecca's life."

Fans will also be excited to hear that Rebecca St. James will begin recording in February her first studio album in four years. The new project is scheduled for release in 2005.

News: We send out more than 30 free newsletters covering a range of topics. To get free e-mail updates about your favorite artists, sign up for music newsletters that match the musical styles you want. Just choose a category—from alternative to gospel to contemporary music—and we'll do the rest. Check out our other newsletters while you're at it. Some are geared toward Christians working as ministers, teachers and professional musicians. Others are for all Christian men, women, and singles. There's bound to be something to fit your interests, so sign up for as many as you want—absolutely free!