"You've been with me through it all, so I won't let fear make me crawl.
You give this heartbeat the strength to stay alive and sing for Your name.
Here I am.
If I'm broken or my body is whole, these hands are Yours, these feet are Yours.
If I'm broken or my body is whole, these tears are Yours, these scars are Yours.
Until You carry my broken body home." -Lanae Hale, "If I'm Broken"
"Back & Forth", the debut release from Centricity songstress Lanae Hale released on Tuesday, May 19th to much critical fanfare. The 25-year-old Floridian now resides in Nashville with her husband, and her artistry is honest and saturated with grace. ChristianityToday.com has an insightful interview with Hale, glimpsing into the issues of her younger years that warped her views of God and self, and demonstrating how her own spiritual Cinderella story can inspire us all and remind us of God's redemptive pursuit of each of us. Her music defies ready categorization, with vocals that are sometimes soaring, sometimes growly, sometimes airy but always deeply resonating. Some have labelled it as "deep pop", having the life and energy of popular Top 40 fare, but more vulnerable substantive lyrics. I don't much care what they call it; I call it good music! The 13-song project has an appealing intro price of $9.97, but for a limited time, Arrowhead has FREE copies of Lanae's project to give away with any CD purchased off our shelves.
This week also brought a sweet 14-track remix project from the Family Force 5 boys and a much-anticipated return engagement by the incomparable Mat Kearney, both priced at $9.99. We also have $5 deals running on BlueTree, Downhere and Tenth Avenue North, and tons of other A-List artists at under $10. Peace! -Mike @ Arrowhead Parable Music
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Guess Who? (Round One)
While at Gospel Music Week in Nashville a few weeks back, I had the opportunity to meet and interview some artists. How well do you think you know your favorite artists? Now's your chance to find out! Email me at music-arrowhead@stny.rr.com with your answers to the following quiz. Put "Guess Who? (Round One)" as your subject line, and I'll notify the first respondent with the correct answers, and have them come in and select a FREE CD of their choosing! (Certain restrictions apply, blah, blah)
So here we go:
Match the artist on the left with the food on the right.
I asked them to identify a food they like that most people don't.
1) Jonny Diaz A) Frank's Hot Sauce by the spoonful
2) 1000 Generation's Steve Potaczek B) PB&J & Cheese Sandwiches
3) Justin Unger C) Quiche
Match the artist of the left with the movie on the right.
I asked them to tell us the last great movie they've seen.
4) Pocket Full of Rocks' Michael Farren D) "Boy in the Striped Pajamas"
5) Katie Giguere E) "Last Chance Harvey"
6) Jason Gray F) the documentary "Man on a Wire"
Somebody's going to win a free CD- why not you? So email me with your best guesses on questions 1-6. And while you're at it, tell me your answers to the two questions above. For me, it would be guacamole and "The Island on Bird Street". Let the games begin. Peace. -Mike
So here we go:
Match the artist on the left with the food on the right.
I asked them to identify a food they like that most people don't.
1) Jonny Diaz A) Frank's Hot Sauce by the spoonful
2) 1000 Generation's Steve Potaczek B) PB&J & Cheese Sandwiches
3) Justin Unger C) Quiche
Match the artist of the left with the movie on the right.
I asked them to tell us the last great movie they've seen.
4) Pocket Full of Rocks' Michael Farren D) "Boy in the Striped Pajamas"
5) Katie Giguere E) "Last Chance Harvey"
6) Jason Gray F) the documentary "Man on a Wire"
Somebody's going to win a free CD- why not you? So email me with your best guesses on questions 1-6. And while you're at it, tell me your answers to the two questions above. For me, it would be guacamole and "The Island on Bird Street". Let the games begin. Peace. -Mike
Monday, May 4, 2009
Tuesday May 5th New Music!
May brings some great new music, including new projects from Decyfer Down, Jonny Diaz, The Newsboys and many more!
It's been a LONG wait for Decyfer Down fans since their June 2006 debut. In that time, the band has faced line-up changes and a horrific accident with their tour van and trailer that could easily have ended in disaster. New frontman T.J. Harris (formerly of Fighting Instinct) is a great fit for the band. Their new album, "Crash" is on sale at Arrowhead for $12.99.
You probably don't know Jonny Diaz by name (yet), but this young artist is swinging for the fence! His single, More Beautiful You, which is climbing the charts at Christian radio, is delightfully indicitive of his major label debut by the same name. With a catchy groove that will inevitably draw Jason Mraz comparisons, Jonny pens appealing and intelligent pop tunes with a decidedly Christian angle. He released three indie albums, two while he was still in college. He was the fourth Diaz boy headed to college on a baseball scholarship (big brother Matt is currently "out in left field" for the Atlanta Braves!), but God was preparing to blaze a very different path for Jonny. You should check his music out for yourself!
The Newsboys are back at it again with their newest album, "In The Hands of God". This is their final album with frontman Peter Furler (Michael Tait of DC Talk fame will be be taking up those duties) and their first without Phil Joel, so there's a definite "end of an era" vibe to this project. Furler's going out in celebratory style, however, and while the album is bookended by contemplative content, there's plenty of Aussie-trademark high-energy worship and such in between. Great stuff for the Newsboys fans out there!
Also releasing on May 5th: a $7.99 full-length debut from EMI's Chris & Conrad, a $5 6-song offering from the underrated but highly artistic Future of Forestry, a new Hard Music project from The Chariot and the 7th entry in the Janette Oke DVD series, Love Takes Wing (arriving just in time for Mother's Day!)
It's been a LONG wait for Decyfer Down fans since their June 2006 debut. In that time, the band has faced line-up changes and a horrific accident with their tour van and trailer that could easily have ended in disaster. New frontman T.J. Harris (formerly of Fighting Instinct) is a great fit for the band. Their new album, "Crash" is on sale at Arrowhead for $12.99.
You probably don't know Jonny Diaz by name (yet), but this young artist is swinging for the fence! His single, More Beautiful You, which is climbing the charts at Christian radio, is delightfully indicitive of his major label debut by the same name. With a catchy groove that will inevitably draw Jason Mraz comparisons, Jonny pens appealing and intelligent pop tunes with a decidedly Christian angle. He released three indie albums, two while he was still in college. He was the fourth Diaz boy headed to college on a baseball scholarship (big brother Matt is currently "out in left field" for the Atlanta Braves!), but God was preparing to blaze a very different path for Jonny. You should check his music out for yourself!
The Newsboys are back at it again with their newest album, "In The Hands of God". This is their final album with frontman Peter Furler (Michael Tait of DC Talk fame will be be taking up those duties) and their first without Phil Joel, so there's a definite "end of an era" vibe to this project. Furler's going out in celebratory style, however, and while the album is bookended by contemplative content, there's plenty of Aussie-trademark high-energy worship and such in between. Great stuff for the Newsboys fans out there!
Also releasing on May 5th: a $7.99 full-length debut from EMI's Chris & Conrad, a $5 6-song offering from the underrated but highly artistic Future of Forestry, a new Hard Music project from The Chariot and the 7th entry in the Janette Oke DVD series, Love Takes Wing (arriving just in time for Mother's Day!)
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Dove Award Results
2009 is the 40th year for the GMA Dove Awards, and brought my (Mike's) 40th birthday as well!
While I haven't gotten to see the show itself yet (it was on Gospel Music Channel last Thursday night, and we don't have cable), I was eager to see how everything played out awards-wise.
New Artist of the Year: Several of this year's nominees (like Fee and Addison Road) have won me over with their debut releases, but I figured it was down to two- Francesca Battistelli and Tenth Avenue North, both of whom I adore)- to battle it out for this year's honors. Both artists have had great success at radio and retail, and have really connected with fans. I would have been pleased with either one being the winner, but must admit to having a special affinity for Mike Donehey & the fellas of Tenth Ave. Their album sounds great start to finish, and their insightful lyrics make it a good read as well. It's great to have a ballot of new artist nominees that have really done a great job over the past year, and have brought some fresh sounds to the CCM scene.
Brandon Heath: It's pretty impressive when an artist leaps from New Artist one year to both Male Vocalist of the Year and Song of the Year ("Give Me Your Eyes") the next, and I must admit that Brandon had me on board from first listen. Well done, B- what do you do for an encore?
Female Vocalist: Natalie Grant took home this Dove for the 4th straight year- the only lady with more wins in this category is the formidable Sandy Patti. But watch your back, Nat- I think our girl Mandisa may give you a run for your money in 2010. Don't say you weren't warned!
Shout outs also go to Laura Story, whose debut "Great God Who Saves" nabbed honors for Inspirational Album of the Year, and to Group 1 Crew, whose took Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year for their sophomore release, "Ordinary Dreamers", both personal favorites who have contributed A-Game projects to the CCM genres, and again, represent new artists who are making their mark. Of course, it's great to see stalwarts like Casting Crowns, Chapman, Smitty and Tomlin toting a bird trophy as well- they set the pace very nicely, and continue to make amazing contributions in the field. But you'll have to forgive me if I get really psyched about up-and-comers like Ayiesha Woods, Fireflight, Brooke Fraser, Leeland, newworldson, Jeremy Riddle and Seabird turning heads -and ears- with fresh new sounds. Keep up the great work everyone!
While I haven't gotten to see the show itself yet (it was on Gospel Music Channel last Thursday night, and we don't have cable), I was eager to see how everything played out awards-wise.
New Artist of the Year: Several of this year's nominees (like Fee and Addison Road) have won me over with their debut releases, but I figured it was down to two- Francesca Battistelli and Tenth Avenue North, both of whom I adore)- to battle it out for this year's honors. Both artists have had great success at radio and retail, and have really connected with fans. I would have been pleased with either one being the winner, but must admit to having a special affinity for Mike Donehey & the fellas of Tenth Ave. Their album sounds great start to finish, and their insightful lyrics make it a good read as well. It's great to have a ballot of new artist nominees that have really done a great job over the past year, and have brought some fresh sounds to the CCM scene.
Brandon Heath: It's pretty impressive when an artist leaps from New Artist one year to both Male Vocalist of the Year and Song of the Year ("Give Me Your Eyes") the next, and I must admit that Brandon had me on board from first listen. Well done, B- what do you do for an encore?
Female Vocalist: Natalie Grant took home this Dove for the 4th straight year- the only lady with more wins in this category is the formidable Sandy Patti. But watch your back, Nat- I think our girl Mandisa may give you a run for your money in 2010. Don't say you weren't warned!
Shout outs also go to Laura Story, whose debut "Great God Who Saves" nabbed honors for Inspirational Album of the Year, and to Group 1 Crew, whose took Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year for their sophomore release, "Ordinary Dreamers", both personal favorites who have contributed A-Game projects to the CCM genres, and again, represent new artists who are making their mark. Of course, it's great to see stalwarts like Casting Crowns, Chapman, Smitty and Tomlin toting a bird trophy as well- they set the pace very nicely, and continue to make amazing contributions in the field. But you'll have to forgive me if I get really psyched about up-and-comers like Ayiesha Woods, Fireflight, Brooke Fraser, Leeland, newworldson, Jeremy Riddle and Seabird turning heads -and ears- with fresh new sounds. Keep up the great work everyone!
Friday, April 24, 2009
EMI's New Faces Showcase
New Faces Showcase
Gospel Music Week: Entry Nine (Wednesday, 4/22 2-3:30pm)
Wednesday afternoon I was privileged to be part of a small group invited to EMI's home offices for a showcase of several of their newest artists. These five artists- Above the Golden State, Danyew, Britt Nicole, Sarah Reeves & Josh Wilson- are all presently touring together as part of an innovative tour called the New Faces Tour. It was a great way to end GMA Week for me, reminding me that not only are there a number of strong established acts anchoring the CCM scene, but there are numerous gifted young artists who are arriving on the scene, and will continue to carry the torch into the future. Artists like Francesca Battistelli, Brandon Heath, Leeland and Tenth Avenue North bode well for the future. As GMA president John Styll aptly stated in one session this week, neither music nor the gospel are going to disappear from the cultural landscape, so we can safely assume that gospel music, in some form, will likewise continue to come to bear as well.
When I hear artists like these, my heart is encouraged, and I know that the gospel message will indeed continue forward from the words, both spoken and sung, of these young troubadours. Texas native Josh Wilson is a gifted singer-songwriter whose 2008 release "Trying to Fit the Ocean in a Cup" is one of my favorite albums of the last year, and can be picked up by inquisitive listeners for a mere $7.99. Sarah Reeves is a gentle worship leader from Alabama, while Danyew is a California-born worshipper with a fresh sound. Both unleashed excellent 6-song introductory albums for $5's each this past week. Above the Golden State is a Oregon-bred 3-piece pop-rock band with a $7.99 full length debut currently in stores. Britt Nicole will be unleashing a new project (her second) on August 11th. I was truly blown away by all three songs she shared, her musical diversity, her richly textured vocals and her obvious heart to glorify God. If these songs are any indication, she is growing way beyond the pop sounds of her excellent debut, and will be a force to be reckoned with in the future! Of all the artists, she was my biggest surpise, and I eagerly anticipate her next album.
EMI is making a concerted effort to sign excellent new artists, who have a depth of talent that will transcend trends and one-hit wonders. Additionally, they've launched a new initiative called Now Hear This to make new artists worth the consumer risk. So far, EMI has released $7.99 full-length debut projects from Above the Golden State, Capital Lights, Julian Drive, Phillip LaRue, Kristian Stanfill and Josh Wilson. In addition, they've released $5 6-song projects to introduce artists like Abandon, Danyew, Philmont, Sarah Reeves and Jason Allen Rich. The goal is to deliver 6 songs now, and another 6-song disc in about 6 months, providing new music not only at a low-risk price point, but also more often. Future artists will include Chris & Conrad, Future of Forestry, Christy Nockels and Seven Stories Up. For a limited time, EMI is offering a 13-song Now Hear This Sampler for $1.99 or FREE with the purchase of any featured title. What a great opportunity to check out a baker's dozen of promising new artists and hopefully find a few new favorites! When's the last time you got 18 great songs for $5? Yeah, I've never (legally) gotten that before either! Not only is it a great deal, but you'll be getting in on the ground floor of some truly amazing artists. Grace & Peace. -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry Nine (Wednesday, 4/22 2-3:30pm)
Wednesday afternoon I was privileged to be part of a small group invited to EMI's home offices for a showcase of several of their newest artists. These five artists- Above the Golden State, Danyew, Britt Nicole, Sarah Reeves & Josh Wilson- are all presently touring together as part of an innovative tour called the New Faces Tour. It was a great way to end GMA Week for me, reminding me that not only are there a number of strong established acts anchoring the CCM scene, but there are numerous gifted young artists who are arriving on the scene, and will continue to carry the torch into the future. Artists like Francesca Battistelli, Brandon Heath, Leeland and Tenth Avenue North bode well for the future. As GMA president John Styll aptly stated in one session this week, neither music nor the gospel are going to disappear from the cultural landscape, so we can safely assume that gospel music, in some form, will likewise continue to come to bear as well.
When I hear artists like these, my heart is encouraged, and I know that the gospel message will indeed continue forward from the words, both spoken and sung, of these young troubadours. Texas native Josh Wilson is a gifted singer-songwriter whose 2008 release "Trying to Fit the Ocean in a Cup" is one of my favorite albums of the last year, and can be picked up by inquisitive listeners for a mere $7.99. Sarah Reeves is a gentle worship leader from Alabama, while Danyew is a California-born worshipper with a fresh sound. Both unleashed excellent 6-song introductory albums for $5's each this past week. Above the Golden State is a Oregon-bred 3-piece pop-rock band with a $7.99 full length debut currently in stores. Britt Nicole will be unleashing a new project (her second) on August 11th. I was truly blown away by all three songs she shared, her musical diversity, her richly textured vocals and her obvious heart to glorify God. If these songs are any indication, she is growing way beyond the pop sounds of her excellent debut, and will be a force to be reckoned with in the future! Of all the artists, she was my biggest surpise, and I eagerly anticipate her next album.
EMI is making a concerted effort to sign excellent new artists, who have a depth of talent that will transcend trends and one-hit wonders. Additionally, they've launched a new initiative called Now Hear This to make new artists worth the consumer risk. So far, EMI has released $7.99 full-length debut projects from Above the Golden State, Capital Lights, Julian Drive, Phillip LaRue, Kristian Stanfill and Josh Wilson. In addition, they've released $5 6-song projects to introduce artists like Abandon, Danyew, Philmont, Sarah Reeves and Jason Allen Rich. The goal is to deliver 6 songs now, and another 6-song disc in about 6 months, providing new music not only at a low-risk price point, but also more often. Future artists will include Chris & Conrad, Future of Forestry, Christy Nockels and Seven Stories Up. For a limited time, EMI is offering a 13-song Now Hear This Sampler for $1.99 or FREE with the purchase of any featured title. What a great opportunity to check out a baker's dozen of promising new artists and hopefully find a few new favorites! When's the last time you got 18 great songs for $5? Yeah, I've never (legally) gotten that before either! Not only is it a great deal, but you'll be getting in on the ground floor of some truly amazing artists. Grace & Peace. -Mike
Tuesday Lunch Mix
Tuesday Lunch Mix
Gospel Music Week: Entry Eight (Tuesday 4/21)
This year's Tuesday luncheon roster was comprised primarily of EMI artists, with a few New Day and Provident artists thrown in for good measure. We heard from established artists like Mandisa, Canton Jones, Crabb Revival and MercyMe, as well 3-songs sets from new artists like Press Play and Steve Petree. Petree has been a member and primary songwriter for mainstream band Shiny Toy Guns, and has recently left the band to pursue a solo career in the Christian market. His debut album, "Moving in Pairs", is slated for a July 28th release, and if the songs we heard ("Getting to Know You", "Run On" and "Stars Tipped Over") are any indication, they this is going to be a truly phenomenal album. Steve pens compelling lyrics, intricate and engaging melodies, and his vocals are emotive and innovative.
I'm a big fan of getting a chance to hear from new artists, so this luncheon was a real treat.
Gospel Music Week: Entry Eight (Tuesday 4/21)
This year's Tuesday luncheon roster was comprised primarily of EMI artists, with a few New Day and Provident artists thrown in for good measure. We heard from established artists like Mandisa, Canton Jones, Crabb Revival and MercyMe, as well 3-songs sets from new artists like Press Play and Steve Petree. Petree has been a member and primary songwriter for mainstream band Shiny Toy Guns, and has recently left the band to pursue a solo career in the Christian market. His debut album, "Moving in Pairs", is slated for a July 28th release, and if the songs we heard ("Getting to Know You", "Run On" and "Stars Tipped Over") are any indication, they this is going to be a truly phenomenal album. Steve pens compelling lyrics, intricate and engaging melodies, and his vocals are emotive and innovative.
I'm a big fan of getting a chance to hear from new artists, so this luncheon was a real treat.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Centricity Showcase
Centricity Showcase at the Rutledge
Gospel Music Week: Entry 7 (Monday 4/20 9-11pm)
Centricity is one of the labels distributed by Word Music. I was excited to attend this showcase because I really tend to like the types of artists that tend to sign with their label. Andrew Peterson and Jason Gray (with a new release slated for September), both of whom I mention in my Artist Reception entry, are both Centricity artists. Downhere, Jamie Jamgochian and Daniel Kirkley are all with Centricity as well. Tonight's showcase featured five of their artists, four new and one established. The established artist, Downhere, was the finale of the line-up, and knowing that I had an early Tuesday morning, I slipped out before they did their set. I've heard and liked Downhere, but really wanted to access the "newbies"! :)
Things kicked off with Sixteen Cities, a five-piece pop-rock band from Portland. Their three songs were very enjoyable, and I anticipate that they'll connect very well with youth audiences as they tour. We'll have to wait to see how their debut CD (currently slated for mid-September) captures their sound.
Matt Pappa is a powerful, high-energy worship leader, with a decidedly Crowder-esque flavor and his own unique flair. Lanae Hale was a pleasant surprise, as I'm pretty fussy on the female artists who capture my favor. She has a great vocal sound, with just enough airiness and just enough grit to keep things interested. I'm now looking forward to her May 19th release a great deal.
But the standout of the night was easily Meinmotion, a killer 3-man retro-rock/punk band who blew me away! The toured with Fireflight this past year, and made quite a buzz at a local show they had done at UCCC. One of our music staffers, Josh, had been in attendance, and has been gently harassing me for any hint of what label they were with and/or when an album would be coming out. Now I understand his urgency- these guys are simply amazing! While I don't know any dates yet, I'll definitely be keeping everyone posted! Grace and Peace. -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry 7 (Monday 4/20 9-11pm)
Centricity is one of the labels distributed by Word Music. I was excited to attend this showcase because I really tend to like the types of artists that tend to sign with their label. Andrew Peterson and Jason Gray (with a new release slated for September), both of whom I mention in my Artist Reception entry, are both Centricity artists. Downhere, Jamie Jamgochian and Daniel Kirkley are all with Centricity as well. Tonight's showcase featured five of their artists, four new and one established. The established artist, Downhere, was the finale of the line-up, and knowing that I had an early Tuesday morning, I slipped out before they did their set. I've heard and liked Downhere, but really wanted to access the "newbies"! :)
Things kicked off with Sixteen Cities, a five-piece pop-rock band from Portland. Their three songs were very enjoyable, and I anticipate that they'll connect very well with youth audiences as they tour. We'll have to wait to see how their debut CD (currently slated for mid-September) captures their sound.
Matt Pappa is a powerful, high-energy worship leader, with a decidedly Crowder-esque flavor and his own unique flair. Lanae Hale was a pleasant surprise, as I'm pretty fussy on the female artists who capture my favor. She has a great vocal sound, with just enough airiness and just enough grit to keep things interested. I'm now looking forward to her May 19th release a great deal.
But the standout of the night was easily Meinmotion, a killer 3-man retro-rock/punk band who blew me away! The toured with Fireflight this past year, and made quite a buzz at a local show they had done at UCCC. One of our music staffers, Josh, had been in attendance, and has been gently harassing me for any hint of what label they were with and/or when an album would be coming out. Now I understand his urgency- these guys are simply amazing! While I don't know any dates yet, I'll definitely be keeping everyone posted! Grace and Peace. -Mike
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