Giveaway Winner

The winner of the Dave Barnes giveaway has been randomly selected and the winner is....Evan! Congrats Evan on winning the album. Also to enter you had to tell me what your favorite music video was and so without further or do.....the winners favorite video is, "Let It Fade" by Jeremy Camp. You can watch the video below, and also be on the lookout for some other great giveaways coming soon! To stay up to date on the latest news, make sure you like The Christian Music Junkie on Facebook.

FREE $2 Amazon MP3 Credit (ENDS 4/1)

You can get $2 in Amazon MP3 credit for free, but you have to do it quick because the offer ends tomorrow night! All you have to do to get the credit, is go here and enter the code HITUMBLR.  Then you can use your $2 in MP3 credit to buy any songs you want! I got "Dum Dum" by Tedashii and "Letters To The President" by Hawk Nelson. What are you going to get? Feel free to comment and let me know! You must redeem the credit by 11:59 p.m. PST on April 1, 2012. Limit one promotional credit per customer.

 

Thanks Justin at Justin's Christian Music Spot for the heads up!

Who Will Be Hawk Nelson's Lead Singer?

After Jason Dunn announced that he would be leaving Hawk Nelson to pursue his solo career with his band Lights Go Down, fans wondered who would be taking the place of the lead singer?

Well recently Jonathan Steingard (center right) has hinted on his twitter page, that he is going to be stepping up as lead singer of Hawk Nelson. He has sang for his solo project's September Satellite & The Natural Anthem, and he sounds really good so I am excited to see what is in store for Hawk Nelson. Jonathan also said that he has been working on writing some new stuff for the band. I will keep you informed as more news unfolds.

Independent Artist Of The Week: WILLET

For this weeks Independent Artist Of The Week I chose WILLET. They are a Christian rock band from Westminster, Maryland. Below is their biography from their Facebook page.

 

 

"After being raised in a Christian home with years of music lessons from their father, 3 brothers from Maryland (Jeremy, Justin & Jordan) started a rock band in 2006, touring simply under their last name, Willet. Since that time, the band has been touring full time (performing over 150 shows per year), recorded and released 6 studio albums, sold over 20,000 records, won independent music awards, an...d landed several independent #1 radio singles. In addition to releasing all albums worldwide, the band has delivered worship songs for congregational use in North America through CCLI.

Although many considered the band “successful” in the music industry, these achievements took second place to the main focus of the group. Through Willet tours, over 2,500 'Food for the Hungry' children living in extreme poverty have been sponsored & the band has led several trips to Ethiopia, Mozambique, Uganda & Haiti to visit the children. In addition, Jeremy and his wife, Kathleen, lived in Haiti for a year (2009-2010) where Kathleen served as a community development facilitator during the January 2010 earthquake.

At the end of 2010, the band started an organization called 'The Hunger Strike' as a way to respond to physical & spiritual needs around the world. This organization became an official partner of 'Food for the Hungry', staying true to the vision to respond to God’s call “until physical and spiritual hungers are ended worldwide”. Willet as a band continues to tour the world, but now also has office space located in Westminster, MD for Hunger Strike staff.

In 2011, the band added Tyler Klusmann from South Dakota as a studio & touring drummer. The band's latest release is 'Love on the outside EP.' (2012) produced by Grammy Nominated, Aaron Gillespie (Underoath, The Almost).

 

New E.P. "Love on the outside" (produced by Aaron Gillespie) available on 4.3.12 as a FREE DOWNLOAD @ www.willetonline.com".

 

 

Now check out WILLET's new lyric video for their song "Love On The Outside".

 

 

 

Robbie Oster - My King Review

Independent artist Robbie Oster released his first album "My King", at the end of 2011. Robbie's passion for music started at an early age, playing the drums. He then went on to lead worship in different churches, which helped to develop his musical passion. Robbie is "very excited to share the album with the public and hope that the music serves as inspiration that no matter what, there's always hope."

After listening to the entire album, I thought that it was pretty good. There were parts that were a little rough around the edges for example, in some parts you can tell it is an independent release, just because the quality doesn't sound quite as good. Although for the most part the music was good, there were some parts that I thought didn't quite fit, but then there were others that I thought how did they come up with that! I would say that I enjoyed the album the most towards the end.

Robbie's vocals on the first couple songs didn't work as well for me, because it kind of seemed like he was trying too hard to hit some of the notes. The songs towards the middle and at the end of "My King" were really good though! All throughout the album I loved the hopeful lyrics, and to me lyrics are a HUGE part of the music. So with that being said I would give this album a 2.5 out of 5 stars.

Track List

1. One Chance
2. My King
3. If It Wasn't For You
4. In Your Hands
5. Heaven
6. Lead Me
7. One True Love
8. Faithful One
9. You're Beautiful
10. Freedom
11. Broken Melody
12. Reflection

Independent Artist Of The Week: A Beautiful Oblivion

For this weeks Independent Artist Of The Week I decided to try a different style of music, so I present "A Beautiful Oblivion". They are a Christian Symphonic MetalCore band.

 

 

"A Beautiful Oblivion, (ABO) is a group of 5 Guys who have a passion for music and strong desire to share the hope they have found in Jesus Christ. Their faith is shown very strongly in the name of the band. The definition of Oblivion is this: The official overlooking of offenses, or pardon. In the bands name, this is referring to the beauty of Jesus’ sacrifice for us through the pardoning of all o...ur past offenses. He knows who we are, and everything we have done, good and bad. While knowing this, He still loves us and died for our sins. This act is truly , “A Beautiful Oblivion”!

ABO started 4 years ago and since then has gone through changes to make it the band it is today. The band consists of Cody DeGraff on keys, synth, and clean vocals / John Edwards on lead vocals/ Justin Hausman on lead guitar and clean vocals vocals / Jameson Trudel on Bass / and Gabe Klingman on drums. As a band, they are always writing new music and pushing their musical talents to the limits and are not happy to just stay the same. In their live performances this shines through with the level of energy and passion that is displayed. The band also has a mission with the lyrics written to sing of God’s grace and how they constantly fall short of His glory; but though His love it empowers them with the motivation to be good and faithful servants to Him. While at the same time showing His love to everyone whom they come in contact with. This is the core of who they are as a band, and what they hope to represent to others. They live this mission out, at shows or anywhere else you might see the guys, taking time to just chat and get to know different people and stories they may have. This is how they connect and stay grounded. The guys’ mission as a band is to reach out to listeners using their music as a tool to minister the teaching and love of Jesus Christ.

Just recently they recorded and released an EP “Secrets She Wrote” which tells of the story of a girl who goes through many trials in life. She struggles with various circumstances and tragedy, she even contemplates suicide. In the end though, after all she thought she had is completely stripped away, she hears God call her name. She listens to the voice of Grace, and in the end finds she has been given more than she could ever dream." - A Beautiful Oblivion's Facebook page
 

Below is A Beautiful Oblivion's song "Silence Screams So Loud". Let me know what you think. If you have any suggestions of Indie bands I should feature, or even just a style of music, let me know in a comment or send me an email at thechristianmusicjunkie@gmail.com.

 

 

FREE Album From A Beautiful Oblivion

There is a small hardcore Christian rock band called "A Beautiful Oblivion" that is giving away brand new copies of their album "Secrets She Wrote". Below is what they posted on their Facebook page.

"You want OUR ALBUM FOR FREE!!!???

Okay so here is the deal!:

1. get one friend to "LIKE" our Facebook page
2. send us your email
3. send us your zip code
4. Tell us what state you live in.
Do all that, and we will send your our album "secrets she wrote" for FREE!!!! Do it all! and FREE ALBUM FOR YOU!!!!

... Please send us a email letting us know you did the above - abeautifuloblivionband@gmail.com

Love you!!!
Keep rocking!!!"

 

 

I am not a huge fan of the hardcore metal sounding music, but I listened to a couple of their songs and liked what I heard so I am going to be getting a copy of their new album! To get your copy, follow the steps! Step 1..... get a friend to "like" their Facebook page.

 

 

Evan Craft Interview

Evan Craft releases a brand new album on Tuesday called "Giants". I reviewed the album and thought it was awesome, you can read the review here. I also got to ask Evan a few questions about the new album, plus some background history on how he got started as a musician. Below is the interview, my question are in white and Evan's answers are in blue.

Can you give us a little background history on how you got started as a musician?

My dad bought me a guitar for my twelfth birthday. Shortly after, my youth group needed someone to step up as a worship leader and my friend Beau and I decided to give it a shot. God really blessed us and inspired us in those years.


Who are some of your musical inspirations?

Jimmy Needham. He has great melodies and wonderful chord structures, as well as deep and insightful lyrics displaying a thirst for God. I am a huge fan! Besides Jimmy, I grew up on DC Talk and Hillsong. I love John Mayer’s blues live recordings, too.


What would you say is the main message that you are trying to convey
with your new album "Giants"?

Obstacles happen. I’ve found myself up against things that are too difficult to deal with by myself and it is God who always gets me through. Zechariah 4:6 talks about how God’s Spirit will do what might or power cannot, whether it be healing a broken heart or inspiring a generation. God is bigger than any giant.


If you could tour with any band, who would it be?

Jimmy Needham again! I am pursuing this right now actually. Matt Kearney and Parachute are close seconds.


What is the best piece of advice that you have been given?

Not to compare myself to anyone else. God gave me a purpose and it is my own; different than the other six billion people on earth.


If you had to choose, what would be your favorite song on the new
album "Giants"?

My favorite song is “Reclaim”. It is the last song I wrote on the album and it is all about God’s heart to take back for His kingdom what the enemy has stolen; the innocent, the lost, the abandoned, the oppressed. God is using you and me to fight for them today. The song was overwhelming to write and it is humbling to be used as an instrument for God.


Where is your favorite venue that you have played at? Why?

Grupo Unidad Church in Tijuana, Mexico. We played for thousands of locals who were singing and dancing. I’ll never forget it. It was a great way to end a month long mission trip to Tijuana.


What music have you been listening to lately?

I love Spanish music! I’ve been hooked on a Spanish band, Jarabe de Palo. I also really love Hillsong’s Spanish worship albums.


Five Random Bonus Questions

1. What is your dream vehicle?

Any Audi. I love the way they look, and it would be a huge upgrade from what I drive today. Or a motorcycle.


2. If you had one day to do anything, anywhere, what would you do?

I would spend it venturing through a big city in South America or see Machu Picchu!


3. What is the craziest thing you have ever done?

I hitchhiked in France to go see WWII sights. I only made it through half of my plans though.


4. What is your favorite season? Why?

I love Christmas time, but I wish Los Angeles had a bit of snow.


5. If you could be a character in any movie, who would you be?

Liam Neeson in Taken. I want to be able to protect my future daughter like he did in the movie.


Is there anything you would like to add?

I hope everyone who hears the album gets to enjoy “No Hay Nadie”, the bonus song. It is a sneak peak of what is to come in the future!


You can find out even more about Evan on Facebook and Twitter.

Evan Craft - Giants Album Review

Signed to Dream Records, pop / rock musician Evan Craft releases his brand new album "Giants" on March 27th.

The album starts off with the fun song "The Sky Is Falling". I love the beat of this song, and I think it would be really cool in concert. I really like the lyrics in "The Sky Is Falling" when it says "Would you catch me if I fall / Cause I would hate to lose it all / And were you always with me all along". The next song "Fight Or Flea" is a short acoustic song, that acts like an intro to the self titled song "Giants". This song is one of my favorite songs on the album, I love the message it has plus the sound! The message that I got out of "Giants" is to not be intimidated by the giants in your life and instead stand up to them, like David and Goliath, because the bigger they are the harder they fall.

I absolutely LOVE the next song "Get Up". It has a great groove with an awesome beat, that you want to clap along with or at least tap your foot along with! I can already tell this song will be on repeat on my iPod. The next song "Broken Heart" has guest vocals by Qis Walker & Lauren Thurston. With the female vocals and also the rap, it adds a couple other dimensions to the song, which I thought was very cool. This song is one of my favorites on the album because of all the different sounds! The next song on the album is "Reclaim". This song has a good sound, but the best part in my opinion is the lyrics, that talk about the day when God comes and takes His kingdom back.

The next song "Human" also has some guest vocals, but on this song the guest vocals are by Jonathan Thulin. This song is a little slower with piano, but once again the lyrics are great, "The disease that plague the weary / Cut their life span/ Am I not thinking clearly / How is this God's plan /....... /And you say /......./ I know you think I'm late / But now you shine like gold / Here you are I have been waiting for you". The previous songs have leaned more towards the pop sound or a worship sound, but the next song "Fighting Gravity" is more of a rock song. Although this song doesn't seem like it totally fits with the other songs, I thought it was a good addition to mix things up a little.

Things slow back down with the next song on the album "Lay Me Down". This song is a great worship song, with the lyrics but also with the sound, it just has that worship feel to it. Like you should turn around and then you would see a group of people just praising God. The next song "Clarity" is more of an upbeat and fast paced song. This is yet another one of my favorite songs on the album, because of the energy it has and it is just exciting! The last song on the album, "No Hay Nadie" is a bonus song that is a preview of what is to come with Evan Craft. This song is in Spanish, which I thought was amazing! Although I am not fluent in Spanish, I thought this song sounded awesome, I just can't tell you what the lyrics are about! Although I know the name "No Hay Nadie" means "No One".

Although there were parts of this album that weren't perfect, I still loved it! I think that this album has the right blend of fun and energetic songs mixed with great vocals. "Giants" also has a good solid message throughout the entire album, which is very much appreciated. I really enjoyed this album, and in a lot of ways it reminded me of Tenth Avenue North, with the feel the music and lyrics had. I would give this album a 4.5/5 stars.

Proclaim Church Software Giveaway

*THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED*

I had the pleasure of reviewing the church presentation software Proclaim. Now I get to giveaway a month of the service to one lucky individual!

To Enter: All you have to do to enter is send me an email at thechristianmusicjunkie@gmail.com with your name, and you will be entered to win! It's that simple!

The winner will be randomly selected sometime after 3pm on Friday April 6th. They will have 48 hours to reply or another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to EVERYONE not just in the U.S. and Canada!!!

Proclaim Church Software Review

Proclaim is a computer software for churches. This software enables churches to organize their service and it gives them the tools to make it even better. I got to try out this software and now I am letting you know what I thought.

I don't have a lot of experience with church presentation software, but I love to design things on the computer and put together video slide shows, so I thought I would give this a shot! I was a little overwhelmed at first with all of the different options that Proclaim has, but I quickly picked it up and started to design my own church presentation.

One thing I noticed as soon as I started was that the software does a lot of the thinking for you. When you put something in your presentation Proclaim makes sure that it fits the best it can, and that it is the right size. You can customize and adjust the stuff if you want something different, but you shouldn't need to. Another helpful thing is that when you enter something in once, like you church name, or song name, you don't have to keep typing it in; the software puts it where it thinks it should go....and its usually right!

Another great feature Proclaim has, is that your tech team or worship team can all collaborate on the same project, yet they can be on different computers. I think that would be really helpful when it comes to getting every ones opinions and input without having to having to go to a lot of meetings.

You can add almost anything to your presentation including a countdown to the beginning of the service, a welcome message, song lyrics, pictures, videos, event reminders, bible verses and more. One thing that I thought was really awesome was that Proclaim can send information out to the smart phones in your congregation. With each slide you get the option to set a quote or scripture to send out to phones in the audience! Isn't that awesome!

I would recommend Proclaim to almost all churches and definitely don't forget that you could use it for your youth groups, events, children's ministry and much more! To find out even more about Proclaim and to buy your own software, visit their website.

Nine Lashes - Get Back Music Video

Nine Lashes released a brand new music video for their song "Get Back" today! This video is part 2 continuing on their first video for their song "Anthem Of The Lonely". You can watch Nine Lashes new video for "Get Back" exclusively at RadioU's website.

I must say that the guys from Nine Lashes are actually pretty good actors! Personally I love the 2 part video. What do you think?

Also in case you never watched their first video you can watch that below.

Jimmy Needham - Clear The Stage Album Review

Jimmy Needham is going to be releasing his fourth studio album "Clear The Stage" under Inpop Records, on March 27th. Below is my review of the album.

The album starts off with the catchy pop song "I Will Find You". This song has a fun groove that I really enjoyed. "I Will Find You" also features some rapping by Lecrae! The addition of Lecrae adds a lot to this song in my opinion. Things slow down a bit with the first single of the album "If I Ever Needed Grace". This song is a very powerful song that basically is about crying out to God and admitting that You are weak and you need God's grace. Then comes a song written for Jimmy's daughter, "Daddy's Baby Girl". This song is one of the sweetest songs I have ever heard. I love the the part where he says "Now you've got me doing these silly dance moves, I hope this don't make it on to YouTube".

The next song "Rock Bottom" definitely has a pop sound with some other cool effects and piano. Lizi Bailey sings with Jimmy on the fifth song "Stay". Jimmy's voice accompanied with Lizi's sounds really good. I would describe this song as simple yet elegant. The next song "In The Middle" is a really hopeful and sweet song that talks about being there for someone. Part of the chorus says "If pain is the ocean you are swimming in / If I can't pull you out / I'm diving in". I just loved those lyrics! Next is my favorite song on the album, "Arrows". This song has nice groove that just seems relaxing to me. I love listening to this song because it just makes you happy and you just want to groove along with it! Haha Actually while listening to this song I found myself swaying along with it! :D

The next song "My Victory" Jimmy talks again about admitting that you need Gods mercy and grace. With the next song "The Only One" the music has an interesting sound with what sounds like an organ and a church choir, mixed with the pop sound. I thought that this song was pretty cool! The last song on the album is the self titled song "Clear The Stage". This song talks about putting God first. The chorus of the song says "You can sing all you want to / But you will still get it wrong / Because worship is more than a song". I thought that this song was a really great way to end the album, putting the focus where it needs to be, on God.

I thought that this album was pretty good musically and lyrically. Although I didn't love all of the songs, I enjoyed them all. There were a few songs though that I really loved... "I Will Find You", "Daddy's Baby Girl" and "Arrows". I would give this album a 4/5 stars for creativity and groove! :D

1. If I Ever Needed Grace
2. Arrows
3. Rock Bottom
4. Daddy's Baby Girl
5. I Will Find You
6. Stay
7. In The Middle
8. My Victory
9. The Only One
10. Clear The Stage

Tenth Avenue North - Festivals: Why We Do What We Do

Tenth Avenue North put this video on YouTube a couple months ago, but I just watched it. I have slow Internet so to commit to loading an eight minute video is big. So I just recently watched the video and it is really amazing. I am not going to describe it, just watch it! :D

There is also a bonus video totally worth your time to load! The video below is by Mike, lead singer of Tenth Avenue North. It is just simply hilarious! Enjoy!

Dave Barnes - Stories To Tell Album Giveaway

*THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED*

Are you guys excited for a brand new giveaway? *insert YES! here* I am giving away a brand new copy of Dave Barnes' album "Stories To Tell". I also reviewed this album, you can read my review here.

Here is how you enter:
MANDATORY ENTRY: To enter send an email to thechristianmusicjunkie@gmail.com telling me what your favorite music video is. The music video can be from any band! Also in the email make sure you include your name and mailing address that way if you win I will be able to mail the album to you.

Extra entries:
"Like" Dave Barnes on Facebook
"Follow" @davebarnesmusic on Twitter
"Like" The Christian Music Junkie on Facebook
"Follow" me @Drummin_4_Jesus on Twitter

Each of these "extra entries" you do will count as FIVE extra entries. For example after you complete the mandatory entry you will get 1 entry. Then if you like The Christian Music Junkie on Facebook, you will get an extra 5 entries for a total of 6!  Just make sure that if you do these extra entries you let me know in your email or they won't count.

This giveaway ends at 8pm EST, March 31st. The winner will be randomly selected and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen! This giveaway is only open to residents of the United States and Canada, sorry.

Dave Barnes - Stories To Tell Album Review

Dave Barnes released his new studio album "Stories To Tell" on March 13th.

The album starts off with the lively song "White Flag". This song has a cool tropical music sound to it. That is the best way I can describe it! It seems like this song is something that you would dance to at the beach! It is almost Hawaiian sounding! Things slow down just a tad with the next  song "How Long". The chorus of this is really catchy, and I love singing along with it. Then comes "Mine To Love", the first single from the album. Dave wrote this sweet song song after he found out that him and is wife were expecting their first child. How sweet! :)

Things get a a little funky with the next song "Heaven Help Me". This song has an old school kind of sound that is cool at times but also a little odd at times. The next song on the album is "Love Will Be Enough For Us". As the title suggests, this song is more of a love song. It reminds me a lot of a country song with the message it tells, and also the sound.

As soon as the next song "Seventeen" started I knew I would like it. I enjoyed the simple sound that it has, and then it builds up to the chorus. I also loved the beat of this song. Things mellow out a little with the next song "Missing You". This song musically is good, with an pleasent and sweet sound. Although the lyrics of this song weren't exactly what I was looking for, they aren't bad at all, just not what I was looking for. I love the beat of the next song "Find Your Way Home". I would say that this song is probably my favorite on the album. The groove of this song is really fun yet relaxing, I am not sure how it works, but it does!

Then comes the self titled track "Stories To Tell". Just as the title suggests this song talks about the stories of life, mainly the good ones! I thought the title of the next song "Warm Heart In A Cold World" was pretty cool. The song is another sweet song that I am guessing Dave wrote about his wife, since the song says "My only woman / My angel girl". The last song on the album is "One Of Us". This song is a slower song with mainly just vocals and acoustic guitar. This song was also written for Dave and his wife's baby.

I thought that this album was pretty good, with a lot of great vocals. The thing that I didn't like as much was that most of the songs on the album seemed to be about Dave's life, which I can understand because I mean your life influences your writing a lot. I am just not in a place in my life right now where these songs really speak to me, although I am sure there are a lot of people that this album would pertain to. Anyway, I would give this album a 3/5 stars.

1. White Flag
2. How Long
3. Mine To Love
4. Heaven Help Me
5. Love Will Be Enough For Us
6. Seventeen
7. Missing You
8. Find Your Way Home
9. Stories To Tell
10. Warm Heart In A Cold World
11. One Of Us

Independent Artist Of The Week: 737

For this weeks "Independent Artist Of The Week" I chose "737". Although I am not 100% sure that "737" is an independent artist I still thought I would feature him!

Below is a little bit about "737" from his Facebook page.

"A fresh young talent with a profound message for students, 737 (pronounced seven-three-seven), is a rapper with a message. As a high school student, 737 lived for the limelight of fame on the basketball court—and the benefits of his earned reputation when he stepped off the court. After graduating from high school, 737 encountered God in such a powerful way that he waved goodbye to his personal fa...me and instead began a relentless pursuit to represent the Famous One. Despite the absence of a musical background, 737 found himself filled with a message that poured out of his soul through rap music. Remembering the influence that secular rap artists had on his teenage years, 737 knew that there was no better way for him to reach students with a positive message. 737 delivers an authentic message about life—and adds to it the hope that is only found through the Gospel. 737 has shared platforms with bands such as Pillar, Britt Nicole, and Brooke Barrettsmith, as well as other Christian rappers such as Flame, k-Drama, Viktory, Eric Cross, D-M.A.U.B, and many others. 737 has also been blessed to work a long side of many well-known national speakers with organizations such as FCA, Student Venture, Wyld Life, Young Life, and has ministered at a variety of churches, camps, and youth groups across the United States. He has released one full album and an EP under his former name, “J-Mack.” Also, he released the first LP under his name "737" entitled, "Get You Some." The album featured artists such as R-Swift, D-Maub, Eric Cross,and k-Drama, and was co-produced by himself and k-Drama. He just finished his sophomore album, which is called “Convinced.” Teaming up with Tony Stone for post edit work, the album features quality production from Geeda, G.Roc, Alex Medina, Tony Stone, Marv4mobeats, D-Flow and more. It also features artist such as J'son, Dillon Chase, Level 3:16, D-Maub, and more. The album is set to release Tuesday, April 24th."

Okay now the best part, the music! Below is the song "King Of All Kings" and after you listen to this song you will know why I chose to feature "737" this week. This song is going to be on 737's new album "Convinced". "King Of All Kings" also features guest vocals from "J'son" and "Dillon Chase".

If you liked that song you will want to check out the album when it comes out April 24th. You can buy it on iTunes and Amazon.

Good Idea. Now What? Book Review

Written by Charles Lee "Good Idea. Now What?" is a great tool to add to any ones book arsenal.

I found the title of this book intriguing. I have always enjoyed dreaming up ideas and plans. "Good Idea, Now What?" gives you a lot of pointers on how to properly execute your idea. After starting to read this book I thought it would be geared mainly towards business entrepreneurs, but that's not exactly the case. Although a lot of the information in this book pertains more towards starting a business, there are a lot useful tips for everyday ideas and manging your time.

I found that reading "Good Idea. Now What?" has actually helped me when it comes to blogging. There are different ideas that I have had for my blog that were just ideas, here one moment and gone the next. I didn't pursue them, because I wasn't sure if it would work out in the end. I also do a lot of reviews on my blog, and at times I get in over my head. I one chapter of this book Charles talks about how everyone has different times of the day when they function the best. For me I function the best between 1pm - 4pm and also 8pm - 12pm. So I have been trying to write the majority of my reviews between those times an it has actually helped a lot! For example, right now as I am writing this it is almost 9pm and I am functioning very well!

All in all I thought that "Good Idea. Now What?" was easy to understand and read. The chapters are very short, about 2 or 3 pages long, and that makes it easy to keep your spot in the book, if you have to stop reading. I would recommend this book to people who are serious about taking their ideas from just thoughts in their heads, to actually having the idea be a success, or at least giving it a shot!

Manafest's New Music Video Pushover

Manafest released a brand new music video today for the song "Pushover", which will be on his new album "Fighter" coming out April 10th. I thought the song was pretty good and the video is cool. Check it out!

Nicole Crotaeu - Anchors & Silhouettes

Nicole Crotaeu is signed to Dream Records the same record label as Press Play. On March 13th, Nicole is releasing her new album "Anchors & Silhouettes".

I will admit I am slightly partial to male vocalists, because normally they sound better, in my opinion.
However Nicole has an amazing voice, the kind that doesn't even need music to sound good. With the style of music and the vocals some of these songs remind me of Taylor Swift, especially the song "Butterflies". Now you people who don't like Taylor Swift, don't count Nicole out. I said SOME of her songs sound similar not all of them!

I would say that this album is a country album by heart, although not every song is a "Country" song, the album just has that vibe. The songs are more like love songs, which are common to country music. In my opinion the best song on the album would be "Storyteller". This song has beautiful vocals, with a toe tapping beat, that I love! Plus I really like the lyrics of this song as well, my favorite line would be "Don't doubt in the dark, What you knew in the light". I love when one little line has so much meaning!

For the most part I really liked this album. To listen to one song is really good, but listening through the entire album it gets a little blurred together and slow. Other than that it is just simply enjoyable to listen to. I will definitely be keeping at least a few of these songs on my iPod to listen to over and over. I would have to give this album a 3.5/5 stars.

1. Falling
2. Storyteller
3. Pushed Down
4. Amazing
5. Think About It
6. Sacred Romance
7. Butterflies
8. Rescue
9. Hurricane
10. Devon
11. The Getaway
12. Thirsty Roots



Independent Artist Of The Week: A Road Less Traveled

For this weeks Independent Artist Of The Week I chose "A Road Less Traveled".

A Road Less Traveled is from Lubbock, Texas. The rock band is comprised of six members:  Zach Dietz, Shawn Anglin, Chris Brown, Michael Murry, Kuhrt Cowan, and Mark Morgan. Below is the official bio for A Road Less Traveled.

"With the success of their sophomore release, "Of A Captive Heart", A Road Less Traveled is sure to have an even greater bang with their next release, "Break My Fall".  Along with a music video, this single releases on March 1st, and is definitely going to be a momentum shift for the band.  "There's no doubt in my mind that the music we're writing right now is the best that we've ever put out...lyrically and musically" says Zach Dietz (lead singer).

Playing near 120 dates in 2011, A Road Less Traveled's work ethic is among the top in the entire music industry. They joined forces with Shane D. Wilson (Switchfoot, David Crowder Band), and Chris Clayton (Chris Tomlin, Big Daddy Weave) for the single, "Break My Fall". 

With many hints of bands such as Muse, Switchfoot, David Crowder band, etc., this song goes against the grain of the music industry. It's original.  Take one listen to the song and you will hear the depth that the band has as musicians.  Don't count A Road Less Traveled out for 2012...it's only just beginning!"

Now check out A Road Less Traveled's new music video for their single "Break My Fall". I actually really like this video and song! Let me know what you think.

You can find out more about A Road Less Traveled, on Twitter, Facebook and of course their website.

Merch Madness Month

This month a lot of bands are having deals on their merchandise for "Merch Madness". For week one they are having FREE SHIPPING!!! Below is a list of the bands I have come across that are having deals.

Barlow Girl

Chris August

Francesca Battistelli

Group 1 Crew

Meredith Andrews

Point Of Grace

Sidewalk Prophets

 

As I come across more bands that are having deals I will add them to the list. If you know of any bands I have missed please leave a comment and let me know!

From Blah To Awe - Book Review

Written by Jenna Lucado Bishop (Max Lucado's daughter) comes the book "From Blah To Awe: Shaking Up Boring Faith".

Doesn't the title "From Blah To Awe" intrigue you? Everyone goes through times in their life or in their faith that are just kind of Blah. The mundane days that turn into weeks and months. Well believe it or not you can actually change your faith from blah to awe! This book helps you to start identifying why your life and relationship with God is boring. Some of the reasons addressed in this book are that we are too comfortable in our faith, or we don't want to keep growing and stretching because that can mean that things get uncomfortable and hard. Another reason could be that we have this idea in our head of who God is and in some ways that can limit him, because we can't even fathom how awesome and powerful He is.

This book is very insightful, yet interesting. The thing that I loved most about this book was the stories! This book is full of stories about teenage girls who have been through the things us teenagers are going through. Jenna also has stories is "From Blah To Awe" that are her take on different bible stories. I really enjoyed these storied because although I have heard the story of Adam and Eve and the Samaritan woman I had never heard it like Jenna described it. The way she illustrated it made it easier to grasp and to enjoy reading. It went from being a typical Bible story to something that was relevant now.

I would most definitely recommend this book to teen girls out there that are struggling with the "Blah's". This book will help you understand why you feel bored with your relationship with God and it will help you to change things so that you can have the relationship with God that he wants us to have! This book definitely helped me and I hope and pray it will do the same for you!

If you want to pick up your own copy of "From Blah To Awe" you can go here.

I have been Tagged!

I was tagged by Melanie from Christian Bookshelf Reviews.


Here are the rules:

If you are tagged, post 11 random things about yourself. Answer the questions I (the tagger) asked you, then create 11 new questions for the people you tag, and go to their blog and let them know they've been tagged.


11 random things about me:

1. I love McDonald's wild berry smoothie!!! So Good!
2. Ever since I started dressing myself I haven't been wearing dresses! Yay!
3. My favorite season is Fall, because I love all of the campfires, hayrides and harvest parties
4. I love finding things that I have in common with other people. It could just be something simple, I don't even care! :D
5. I love swimming! When I younger my mom used to call me a fish, because I practically lived in the water!
6. I have never been water skiing, tubing or any other water sport.
7. When I was younger my uncle tried to convince me that if there was an emergency you call 991....mean right!?
8. I love checking my email! Sounds weird I know....
9. I tend to get my Left and my Right confused.
10. I have broken my arm (from falling off a moving golf cart) and my collar bone (from jumping on the trampoline!)
11. When I was younger I would catch frogs with my brother and cousin, until I had a nightmare that they were attacking me and dragging me into the water.....didn't touch one again for years! :D

Now the questions Melanie asked:

1. Are you a night-owl or early-bird?

I am a night-owl for sure!My question for you:

1. What is your best memory so far in 2012?

2. When you were little did you have a favorite toy or blanket that you took everywhere? What was it?

3. What is the scariest thing you have done?

4. What is your favorite fruit?

5. What are your top 5 favorite CD's?

6. If you could have any job what would it be?

7. What do you call it? Pop? Soda? Coke?

8. What was the last book you read?

9. If you could pick any band to release a new album who would it be?

10. Toilet paper.....scrunch or fold? (That was inspired by my family, blame them!)

11. Do you put corn on your mashed potatoes or vinegar on your fries?




2. If you were going to go on vacation and could only travel via airplane or ship, which would you choose?
Well I have never done either so to me either would be awesome! Flying is faster but I love water!


3. Name your favorite holiday?
I have always loved Thanksgiving because the family is all together, you get good food and it is teh begining of the holiday season!


4. Do you watch any reality shows? If so, which ones?
Hmm.....I watch Fear Factor, The Voice, The Sing Off, Cupcake Wars, 19 Kids And Counting and others that I can't think of right now!


5. What is your favorite genre to read and what was the last book in that genre you've read?
Either mystery/thrillers or self help kind of books. Last mystery was.....I forgot the name! it was about kids that got snowed into a school and had to surrvive. The last self help book was "From Blah To Awe".

6. Which do you prefer - a snowstorm or thunderstorm?
I love a good snowstorm when no one can go anywhere and you have to sit and read or play board games, but you can't beat the sound of a thunderstorm. Right now I would say I want a Thunderstorm.

7. If you could travel to any country, which would it be?

I would have to say Japan! I have never been over there and I have family that lives there!


8. What are the five songs you listen to the most?
Hmm.....in no particular order
1. The Unnavoidable Battle Of Feeling On The Outside by FM Static
2. Aliens by Lecrae
3. Hold My Heart by Tenth Avenue North
4. Diverse City by TobyMac
5. Alive In You by 7eventh Time Down
*Bonus* lately I have been listening to "The Cost" by The Rend Collective Experiment a lot.

9. Do you have any phobias?
I am afraid of mice, reptiles, falling...not really heights just falling from heights! LoL There is probably other stuff I just can't think of it!

10. Who are your top three favorite authors?
Justin Lookadoo, Tony Nolan and Lemony Snicket!


11. If you were stuck on an abandoned island for one year and could take five fiction books with you, what would they be? Hmm....I am not sure, I think I would take books that I haven't read so that it is something new!

Independent Artist Of The Week: Reilly

For this weeks Independent Artist Of The Week I chose Reilly. I have seen Reilly live and I must say they put on a great show! Why they aren't signed to a record label, I don't know! Below is their bio from their website.

"Based in Philadelphia (PA), Reilly is known for their unique blend of rock and dueling violins. Their energetic live show and spiritual depth has landed them attention by the music industry and a growing number of loyal fans throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. Chris Strayer of Purple Door Festival says "If Reilly's hearts, music and lyrics are not enough the dueling violins will blow you out of your seat! This is my new favorite live band."

The band was formed during their college years through the group Campus Crusade for Christ, where they discovered a mutual love for music and ministry at regional conferences, jam sessions and local shows. Years later you can find Reilly rocking the main stage at major festivals across the U.S. and Europe including Creation, Flevo Xnoizz, LifeLight, Cornerstone, Alive and many others.

Reilly has performed with well known artists like Switchfoot, Lecrae, Newsboys, and Jars of Clay. In 2010, Reilly toured with Barlow Girl, who said "night after night we got to see Reilly quickly connect with the audience and the audience in turn fell in love with them. They are an amazing band with amazing hearts."
In 2009, frontman John Reilly was nominated for a Dove Award for his collaboration with Flame and Lecrae on Joyful Noise (from Grammy nominated, Our World Redeemed). That same year Reilly's music video, Sunlight, was awarded "Best Music Video" at the San Diego Film Festival.

The band released their third album, Around the World, in June 2010, and has two other albums, Let June Decide (2007) and While I Was on Earth (2005). The heart of Reilly is to love God and serve others through music and lyrics that illuminate His promises. With their newest album, $1 from each copy sold goes to ministries around the world that help the poor or share the gospel. Learn more at One Love to Give Us Life."

Now its time to let the music do the talking, below is Reilly's music video for their song "Sunlight".

You can find Reilly on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

KJ-52 - Dangeous Lyric Video

KJ-52 is going to be releasing his new album "Dangerous" on April 3rd. He recently released a lyric video for the title track "Dangerous". You can watch it below!

Manic Drive - Save A Life Music Video

Manic Drive released a new music video for their song "Save A Life" today. I thought it was really good and I love the song! Check it out!