Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Sigur Ros at the Greek LA - Gobbledigook
This was taken at the Greek in Los Angeles on October 2, 2008. The opening band Parachutes came out and shot off confetti guns, effectively covering the entire audience in paper rain.
Christian Music News Source
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Parachute 08: 2TW3NTY Band Road Trip
In late January 2008, our church band from Celebration Centre Christchurch, 2TW3NTY, went on a road trip to Hamilton for the annual Parachute Music Festival!
Christian Music News Source
Thursday, October 30, 2008
WJTL meets The Parachute Band
WJTL's Kristi Leigh chats with Sam and Omega from The Parachute Band backstage at Creation 2008.
www.parachutemusic.com
www.wjtl.com/listen
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Parachute Band - Technicolor
Parachute Band talks about their new album, Technicolor, which releases 10.14.08 on Integrity Music www.integritymusic.com/parachu teband www.myspace.com/parachuteband
Christian Music News Source
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Parachute Band- Omega Testimony + Mercy LIVE
Hear Omega Levine's testimony and see a LIVE performance of "Mercy" from Parachute Festival 2008. Check out Parachute Band's newest release, Technicolor, available now worldwide
myspace.com/parachuteband
integritymusic.com/parachuteband
Christian Music News Source
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Conchords, Opshop fly off with awards
Comedy duo Flight of the Conchords and veteran pop-rock band Opshop were the big winners at the Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards last night, nabbing four awards each.
The Conchords Wellingtonians Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie scooped Album of the Year, Band of the Year, Breakthrough Artist and International Achievement awards, but in accepting the gongs through a series of pre-recorded videos the duo played down their credentials.
"We're barely even a group," Clement said.
"There's only two of us," said McKenzie.
To claim the best album award, The Conchords beat off strong contenders Liam Finn (I'll Be Lightning), Anika Moa (In Swings The Tide), Tiki Taane (Past, Present, Future) and Scribe (Rhymebook).
Christchurch's Opshop scored Single of the Year and Highest Selling Single of the Year (both for the hugely popular One Day), highest selling album of the year (for Second Hand Planet) and the NZ On Air Radio Airplay Record of the Year for the song Maybe.
Rapper Scribe claimed the Best Urban/Hip Hop album award, while veteran Wellington act Shihad won Best Rock Album for Beautiful Machine. Anika Moa won Best Female Artist and Liam Finn (son of Neil) won Best Male Solo Artist.
Last night's ceremony was held at Auckland's Vector Arena, allowing more than 5000 members of the public to attend what in the past has been largely an "industry-only" event. Scribe, Shihad, Cut Off Your Hands and Anika Moa were among the acts to perform.
Waikato reggae band Katchafire, previous winners, dipped out on the Best Aotearoa Roots Album award which went to Tiki Taane. However, the region still had a presence, with Turangawaewae-based kapa haka group Te Pou O Mangatawhiri opening the show in spectacular style with Taane in a performance of his song Tangaroa.
The group's tutor, Tony Walker, said the group considered it a "great honour" to perform at the awards, and members had enjoyed blending traditional Maori kapa haka with contemporary music.
"We like the challenges we're up for that sort of stuff," he said.
Former Cambridge woman Kimberly Eason, 23, joined C4 host Jermaine Leef to present the Voice of The People Award a public vote to Parachute Band.
"It was a bit terrifying, but I think it went well," Eason said.
Christian Music News Source
The Conchords Wellingtonians Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie scooped Album of the Year, Band of the Year, Breakthrough Artist and International Achievement awards, but in accepting the gongs through a series of pre-recorded videos the duo played down their credentials.
"We're barely even a group," Clement said.
"There's only two of us," said McKenzie.
To claim the best album award, The Conchords beat off strong contenders Liam Finn (I'll Be Lightning), Anika Moa (In Swings The Tide), Tiki Taane (Past, Present, Future) and Scribe (Rhymebook).
Christchurch's Opshop scored Single of the Year and Highest Selling Single of the Year (both for the hugely popular One Day), highest selling album of the year (for Second Hand Planet) and the NZ On Air Radio Airplay Record of the Year for the song Maybe.
Rapper Scribe claimed the Best Urban/Hip Hop album award, while veteran Wellington act Shihad won Best Rock Album for Beautiful Machine. Anika Moa won Best Female Artist and Liam Finn (son of Neil) won Best Male Solo Artist.
Last night's ceremony was held at Auckland's Vector Arena, allowing more than 5000 members of the public to attend what in the past has been largely an "industry-only" event. Scribe, Shihad, Cut Off Your Hands and Anika Moa were among the acts to perform.
Waikato reggae band Katchafire, previous winners, dipped out on the Best Aotearoa Roots Album award which went to Tiki Taane. However, the region still had a presence, with Turangawaewae-based kapa haka group Te Pou O Mangatawhiri opening the show in spectacular style with Taane in a performance of his song Tangaroa.
The group's tutor, Tony Walker, said the group considered it a "great honour" to perform at the awards, and members had enjoyed blending traditional Maori kapa haka with contemporary music.
"We like the challenges we're up for that sort of stuff," he said.
Former Cambridge woman Kimberly Eason, 23, joined C4 host Jermaine Leef to present the Voice of The People Award a public vote to Parachute Band.
"It was a bit terrifying, but I think it went well," Eason said.
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Parachute Band - You Alone
Reviewed by Mike Rimmer
Funny how some of the most interesting music is coming from the southern hemisphere! From New Zealand, here's the first of a series of albums to highlight NZ songwriting talent. This is a groovy praise and worship album, a million miles from what we've come to expect from that genre. This is experimental, vibey and fresh and...I'm hooked! From the opening dancy groove of "Jesus Is Real" and rock'n'soul praise of the title tune, it's clear there's something special going on. "Thank You Jesus" builds on another swampy groove with plenty of 'feel'. Now this is how I like to worship! "Where Can I Go" has an up tempo acoustic rock style which doesn't sound out of place amongst the other songs. The beauty of the album is that there are a number of different styles employed but it holds together because there is a genuine feel of worship and risk in the recording. "Spirit Come" and "Breathe On Me" are more recognisably worshippy in style whereas "We Seek Your Face" builds from a rocky climax into an acapella close. Wild! The album closes as it started with a funky, vibey declaration of faith "In The Name Of Jesus". To cap it all, Steve Apirana even sneaks on for a guest vocal on one song! As for me? I want to play it all again from the start. As close to the cutting edge of worship as you can get without chopping off your fingers!....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Funny how some of the most interesting music is coming from the southern hemisphere! From New Zealand, here's the first of a series of albums to highlight NZ songwriting talent. This is a groovy praise and worship album, a million miles from what we've come to expect from that genre. This is experimental, vibey and fresh and...I'm hooked! From the opening dancy groove of "Jesus Is Real" and rock'n'soul praise of the title tune, it's clear there's something special going on. "Thank You Jesus" builds on another swampy groove with plenty of 'feel'. Now this is how I like to worship! "Where Can I Go" has an up tempo acoustic rock style which doesn't sound out of place amongst the other songs. The beauty of the album is that there are a number of different styles employed but it holds together because there is a genuine feel of worship and risk in the recording. "Spirit Come" and "Breathe On Me" are more recognisably worshippy in style whereas "We Seek Your Face" builds from a rocky climax into an acapella close. Wild! The album closes as it started with a funky, vibey declaration of faith "In The Name Of Jesus". To cap it all, Steve Apirana even sneaks on for a guest vocal on one song! As for me? I want to play it all again from the start. As close to the cutting edge of worship as you can get without chopping off your fingers!....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Parachute Band - Always and Forever
By Bridget M. Wilard "www.moreofjesus.com" (Dana Point, CA)
These "down-unders" are really bringing forth the most awesome worship songs. "How I long for You" is worth the purchase. It is a refreshing CD both with the lyrics and the music. Honest, intimate expression of worship that you'll probably wear your CD player out with.
By Auntie Lisa
Sincere and rock-solid from beginning to end, this album really demonstrates the band's evolution; a quantum leap in quality and professionalism from their first, experimental 'You Alone.' The Maori-language song 'Aue,' with which the album begins and ends, will blow you AWAY.
If I had to choose favorite (English) selections, they would be:
Always and Forever -- a lovely song of love and trust given added momentum by a gentle beat.
I'm Your Servant, How I Long for You, and Pure and Holy -- if these aren't pure heart-cries of worship, I don't know what is. Listen and you'll know what I mean.
I Fall Down -- Chris DeJong at her exuberant rocking best.
All in all, this album has that 'something' (hmmm...maybe talent married to a true anointing?) that just makes it WORK. An early effort, yet it may prove to stand as one of their best.
By John D. Lynch "jackdlynch" (Shreveport, LA United States)
The first time I listened to this CD, I thought I'd wasted money. However, over the next two weeks I listened again and totally changed my mind. I now consider it the best Christian worship CD out there. Their music is diverse, the vocalists are extremely talented, and whoever did the mixing did an exceptional job. This is not a mushball Christian CD, this is unfettered worship!....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
These "down-unders" are really bringing forth the most awesome worship songs. "How I long for You" is worth the purchase. It is a refreshing CD both with the lyrics and the music. Honest, intimate expression of worship that you'll probably wear your CD player out with.
By Auntie Lisa
Sincere and rock-solid from beginning to end, this album really demonstrates the band's evolution; a quantum leap in quality and professionalism from their first, experimental 'You Alone.' The Maori-language song 'Aue,' with which the album begins and ends, will blow you AWAY.
If I had to choose favorite (English) selections, they would be:
Always and Forever -- a lovely song of love and trust given added momentum by a gentle beat.
I'm Your Servant, How I Long for You, and Pure and Holy -- if these aren't pure heart-cries of worship, I don't know what is. Listen and you'll know what I mean.
I Fall Down -- Chris DeJong at her exuberant rocking best.
All in all, this album has that 'something' (hmmm...maybe talent married to a true anointing?) that just makes it WORK. An early effort, yet it may prove to stand as one of their best.
By John D. Lynch "jackdlynch" (Shreveport, LA United States)
The first time I listened to this CD, I thought I'd wasted money. However, over the next two weeks I listened again and totally changed my mind. I now consider it the best Christian worship CD out there. Their music is diverse, the vocalists are extremely talented, and whoever did the mixing did an exceptional job. This is not a mushball Christian CD, this is unfettered worship!....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Parachute Band - Adore
Reviewed by Trevor Kirk
This, the third offering from Auckland's power praisers, is another slab of excellent worship music. The mix is as before, a tight band, well-crafted songs with an absence of hackneyed lyrics and banal tunes, singers and soloists who give it everything, and enthusiasm and passion by the truckload. It's tempting to describe Libby Huirua as New Zealand's Darlene Zschech, and her husband Wayne as a Russell Fragar or a Geoff Bullock - one of the penalties of having such a class act as Hillsongs just the other side of the Tasman Sea - but such comparisons are unnecessary, apart from the obvious one that all are very accomplished songwriters. Yes, the sound isn't as polished as Hillsongs, but The Parachute Band can hold their heads up in the best company. Wayne and Libby's opener "Give It Up", is a funky gospel-tinged opus; track two "Praise Him" carries on where track one leaves off. and by the end of track 12, over 57 minutes after the opening applause, there was no doubt in this listener's mind that here is one happening outfit. Apart from the first two, I also love the title track, a mid tempo number with a fairly gentle verse and an anthemic chorus "I've got to worship you my God/I can't contain the way I feel/I dance free before you Lord for it's you that I adore." Sheer poetry. A must-have album that gels better every lime I hear it....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
This, the third offering from Auckland's power praisers, is another slab of excellent worship music. The mix is as before, a tight band, well-crafted songs with an absence of hackneyed lyrics and banal tunes, singers and soloists who give it everything, and enthusiasm and passion by the truckload. It's tempting to describe Libby Huirua as New Zealand's Darlene Zschech, and her husband Wayne as a Russell Fragar or a Geoff Bullock - one of the penalties of having such a class act as Hillsongs just the other side of the Tasman Sea - but such comparisons are unnecessary, apart from the obvious one that all are very accomplished songwriters. Yes, the sound isn't as polished as Hillsongs, but The Parachute Band can hold their heads up in the best company. Wayne and Libby's opener "Give It Up", is a funky gospel-tinged opus; track two "Praise Him" carries on where track one leaves off. and by the end of track 12, over 57 minutes after the opening applause, there was no doubt in this listener's mind that here is one happening outfit. Apart from the first two, I also love the title track, a mid tempo number with a fairly gentle verse and an anthemic chorus "I've got to worship you my God/I can't contain the way I feel/I dance free before you Lord for it's you that I adore." Sheer poetry. A must-have album that gels better every lime I hear it....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Parachute Band - Love and Adore
By Auntie Lisa
In Love & Adore, Parachute Band introduces more 'produced' tracks than in their previous albums and unveils an increasingly polished sound. The anthemic songs by Andrew Ulugia, Louis Collins, and the Huiruas sparkle as the true gems...although Chris DeJong's catchy 'Love Ya' WILL keep you hitting the repeat button!
Run, don't walk, to get their 2000 release, 'Amazing' (rightly named), where the band ARRIVES at the top of their inspiration/craft. (Amazon doesn't have it, but it can be found.)
By Sheila Osborne (Pittsburgh, PA United States)
You could select any of the songs on this 2CD album and not go wrong. The Parachute Band are "the absolute best" at praising and worshipping. I take them with me into my closet to help me reach my Lord and Savior. They assist me in calling out to Him! Please Walk Beside Me touches the humility of prayer. I have never heard the "Parachute Band" do anything, I didn't like. Their songs grow on you and in you!
By A Customer
This album is packed with great songs of praise to God! What I like most about the Parachute Band is that they have such a wide range of music styles on their albums. From contemporary to gospel to even some alternative thrown in, this album will certainly get you closer to God every time you listen to it! I highly recommend this one!!!...
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
In Love & Adore, Parachute Band introduces more 'produced' tracks than in their previous albums and unveils an increasingly polished sound. The anthemic songs by Andrew Ulugia, Louis Collins, and the Huiruas sparkle as the true gems...although Chris DeJong's catchy 'Love Ya' WILL keep you hitting the repeat button!
Run, don't walk, to get their 2000 release, 'Amazing' (rightly named), where the band ARRIVES at the top of their inspiration/craft. (Amazon doesn't have it, but it can be found.)
By Sheila Osborne (Pittsburgh, PA United States)
You could select any of the songs on this 2CD album and not go wrong. The Parachute Band are "the absolute best" at praising and worshipping. I take them with me into my closet to help me reach my Lord and Savior. They assist me in calling out to Him! Please Walk Beside Me touches the humility of prayer. I have never heard the "Parachute Band" do anything, I didn't like. Their songs grow on you and in you!
By A Customer
This album is packed with great songs of praise to God! What I like most about the Parachute Band is that they have such a wide range of music styles on their albums. From contemporary to gospel to even some alternative thrown in, this album will certainly get you closer to God every time you listen to it! I highly recommend this one!!!...
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Parachute Band - Amazing
By C. Y. Siy "Praise Addict" (NY, USA)
This CD is "Amazing"! The first time I listened to this CD, I fell hook, line, and sinker. One of the greatest praise and worship CDs out there. It's a shame that the bands CDs are not readily available in stores here in the US. If you like praise & worship songs, definitely give this one a try. You won't regret it.
By S. Ling "simplicitea" (Arcadia, CA United States)
The first time I heard "All the Earth" on the radio here in LA, I tried to find the album online for a few months. Finally, I found it on Amazon and waited another month for it to arrive. Although "All the Earth" here on the album is slightly different from the radio version, it's still a great worship song. I like most of the ballads and praise choruses on this album; the alterative songs are a bit different from what I usually listen to. Overall, it's a great praise and worship album...worth the wait!
By Kenneth L. Jones "Pastor Ken" (Houston, Texas United States)
The parachute band continues to expand their vocal talents, acoustic guitar and lead vocals. They are growing in fans around the world as they sing Gods praises....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
This CD is "Amazing"! The first time I listened to this CD, I fell hook, line, and sinker. One of the greatest praise and worship CDs out there. It's a shame that the bands CDs are not readily available in stores here in the US. If you like praise & worship songs, definitely give this one a try. You won't regret it.
By S. Ling "simplicitea" (Arcadia, CA United States)
The first time I heard "All the Earth" on the radio here in LA, I tried to find the album online for a few months. Finally, I found it on Amazon and waited another month for it to arrive. Although "All the Earth" here on the album is slightly different from the radio version, it's still a great worship song. I like most of the ballads and praise choruses on this album; the alterative songs are a bit different from what I usually listen to. Overall, it's a great praise and worship album...worth the wait!
By Kenneth L. Jones "Pastor Ken" (Houston, Texas United States)
The parachute band continues to expand their vocal talents, acoustic guitar and lead vocals. They are growing in fans around the world as they sing Gods praises....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Parachute Band - Glorious
Sounds like … a somewhat diverse blend of programmed pop/R&B worship that resembles Anointed, Avalon, and Hillsong Australia.
At a glance … Parachute Band's eclectic musical palette and vocal skills are a little overshadowed by the conventional writing and simplistic worship rhetoric.
Parachute Band comes to us from New Zealand, where they started in 1996 as the house worship band for the annual Parachute Festival held every January. Not that "parachute" holds any significance ("it's just a nice sounding word"), the band became committed to introducing new worship songs to the church—first in New Zealand, and then around the world. They've since released five albums that have sold more than 200,000 total copies (low by industry standards, but fair for a worship artist), and scored a radio hit with "All the Earth."
I'm not sure I've seen a group so reluctant to identify its members and roles. Like their previous five releases, Glorious shows its three core vocalists (Wayne Huirua, Chris de Jong, and Libby Huirua) in various photos without really identifying them in the booklet. You'll find their names credited as songwriters for some tracks and for the vocal arrangements; Wayne also plays guitar and Chris keyboards. Most of the sound involved programmed pop arrangements, though they are joined by drummer Geoff Mason and touring bassist Adrian Le Pou. And while the band members do write some of their own songs, they rely just as much on the music of other worship writers from New Zealand and around the world.
While the production values for Parachute Band have been lacking on previous releases, they've improved with every album. As usual, this worship team has never confined themselves to a single style, and that's part of their appeal. Glorious begins with the joyously rowdy R&B funk of "So Sing," the album's most energetic track, which sounds a bit like George Clinton fronting En Vogue in a call-to-worship praise song. It's followed by the enjoyable programmed pop/rock of "Almighty," which is almost as strong as their popular rock anthem "Reason" was a few years ago: "Baring all, I stand here before you/All my hurts exposed/In the depths of my despair, I cry out to you/Make me whole." From there, the Parachute Band runs the gamut of soulful R&B ("All That I Need," featuring Israel Houghton), soaring euro-pop balladry ("High Above"), and blues-gospel ("Glorify Your Name"). "King of Love" even features a beautiful pipe organ—a real one, not a synth—in combination with the pop worship sound....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
At a glance … Parachute Band's eclectic musical palette and vocal skills are a little overshadowed by the conventional writing and simplistic worship rhetoric.
Parachute Band comes to us from New Zealand, where they started in 1996 as the house worship band for the annual Parachute Festival held every January. Not that "parachute" holds any significance ("it's just a nice sounding word"), the band became committed to introducing new worship songs to the church—first in New Zealand, and then around the world. They've since released five albums that have sold more than 200,000 total copies (low by industry standards, but fair for a worship artist), and scored a radio hit with "All the Earth."
I'm not sure I've seen a group so reluctant to identify its members and roles. Like their previous five releases, Glorious shows its three core vocalists (Wayne Huirua, Chris de Jong, and Libby Huirua) in various photos without really identifying them in the booklet. You'll find their names credited as songwriters for some tracks and for the vocal arrangements; Wayne also plays guitar and Chris keyboards. Most of the sound involved programmed pop arrangements, though they are joined by drummer Geoff Mason and touring bassist Adrian Le Pou. And while the band members do write some of their own songs, they rely just as much on the music of other worship writers from New Zealand and around the world.
While the production values for Parachute Band have been lacking on previous releases, they've improved with every album. As usual, this worship team has never confined themselves to a single style, and that's part of their appeal. Glorious begins with the joyously rowdy R&B funk of "So Sing," the album's most energetic track, which sounds a bit like George Clinton fronting En Vogue in a call-to-worship praise song. It's followed by the enjoyable programmed pop/rock of "Almighty," which is almost as strong as their popular rock anthem "Reason" was a few years ago: "Baring all, I stand here before you/All my hurts exposed/In the depths of my despair, I cry out to you/Make me whole." From there, the Parachute Band runs the gamut of soulful R&B ("All That I Need," featuring Israel Houghton), soaring euro-pop balladry ("High Above"), and blues-gospel ("Glorify Your Name"). "King of Love" even features a beautiful pipe organ—a real one, not a synth—in combination with the pop worship sound....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Parachute Band - All the Earth: Live from New Zealand
Sounds like … something between Hillsong, Planetshakers and the Women of Faith worship team, which should appeal to adult listeners and contemporary worship fans.
At a glance … great melodies and an irresistible corporate feel make All the Earth the most memorable album the Parachute Band has recorded.
When it comes to worship music hailing from the South Pacific, Hillsong Australia seems to get all the attention. Little is said of New Zealand's Parachute Band, a group that has been leading worship for nearly ten years. The foursome got its start in 1996 as the in-house band for the popular Parachute Festival, and has since released a number of albums and introduced songs from a variety of songwriters. Though still relatively unknown in the U.S., All the Earth is bound to change that.
Recorded live at Parachute '05, in many ways All the Earth is a formal introduction to the band, bringing together the most memorable praise choruses its writers have penned. In the studio, the Parachute Band has always sounded erratic, jumping from groove-laden pop/rock to techno and even teen pop. But in a live setting, they simply lead worship, placing more emphasis on spirit and audience engagement than execution or experimentalism. Sonically, the concert recalls a rougher, less rehearsed Hillsong service, with melodies and pop appeal to spare, yet without the grandiosity that's become standard in recent recordings from Darlene Zschech and Co....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
At a glance … great melodies and an irresistible corporate feel make All the Earth the most memorable album the Parachute Band has recorded.
When it comes to worship music hailing from the South Pacific, Hillsong Australia seems to get all the attention. Little is said of New Zealand's Parachute Band, a group that has been leading worship for nearly ten years. The foursome got its start in 1996 as the in-house band for the popular Parachute Festival, and has since released a number of albums and introduced songs from a variety of songwriters. Though still relatively unknown in the U.S., All the Earth is bound to change that.
Recorded live at Parachute '05, in many ways All the Earth is a formal introduction to the band, bringing together the most memorable praise choruses its writers have penned. In the studio, the Parachute Band has always sounded erratic, jumping from groove-laden pop/rock to techno and even teen pop. But in a live setting, they simply lead worship, placing more emphasis on spirit and audience engagement than execution or experimentalism. Sonically, the concert recalls a rougher, less rehearsed Hillsong service, with melodies and pop appeal to spare, yet without the grandiosity that's become standard in recent recordings from Darlene Zschech and Co....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Parachute Band - Roadmaps and Revelations
Sounds like … Hillsong United, Detour 180, By the Tree, Lincoln Brewster, and other youth-oriented worship proponents.
At a glance … This new younger incarnation of Parachute Band doesn't have enough of a voice of its own, sounding too much like predecessors and many other similar worship groups.
When Parachute Band founders Wayne and Libby Huirua announced at a live event they'd be stepping down from the group they helped establish in 1996, it's not hard to imagine the collective gasp. After all, the announcement wasn't made at just any live event, but before a stunned crowd of 27,000 at New Zealand's Parachute Festival—the very same outdoor extravaganza that motivated the Huiruas to start leading worship more than ten years ago.
However, the pair didn't bail on the whole thing without a backup plan. They decided to pass the baton to a newer, younger incarnation of the group—five guys with the hearts and stamina to carry the band's modern worship vision forward with a "new face" and a "fresh sound." Going by the members' looks alone—Converse sneakers, skinny jeans, emo t-shirts, nappy haircuts—one would assume this new guard is a more punkish, garage rock version of itself, or maybe some sort of post-hardcore worship team.
At least part of the new group's debut Roadmaps and Revelations sounds like it's heading in a hipper, trendier direction. "The Way" proves that much with fuzzy guitars and a frenetic, beat-on-beat drum cadence giving way to a raucous praise song unlike anything in the storied Parachute repertoire. It's a healthy start, but alas, one that's only sustained temporarily before the sound devolves into something much more familiar and generic. There's not enough distinctive here to separate this new band from the pack, much less their predecessors....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
At a glance … This new younger incarnation of Parachute Band doesn't have enough of a voice of its own, sounding too much like predecessors and many other similar worship groups.
When Parachute Band founders Wayne and Libby Huirua announced at a live event they'd be stepping down from the group they helped establish in 1996, it's not hard to imagine the collective gasp. After all, the announcement wasn't made at just any live event, but before a stunned crowd of 27,000 at New Zealand's Parachute Festival—the very same outdoor extravaganza that motivated the Huiruas to start leading worship more than ten years ago.
However, the pair didn't bail on the whole thing without a backup plan. They decided to pass the baton to a newer, younger incarnation of the group—five guys with the hearts and stamina to carry the band's modern worship vision forward with a "new face" and a "fresh sound." Going by the members' looks alone—Converse sneakers, skinny jeans, emo t-shirts, nappy haircuts—one would assume this new guard is a more punkish, garage rock version of itself, or maybe some sort of post-hardcore worship team.
At least part of the new group's debut Roadmaps and Revelations sounds like it's heading in a hipper, trendier direction. "The Way" proves that much with fuzzy guitars and a frenetic, beat-on-beat drum cadence giving way to a raucous praise song unlike anything in the storied Parachute repertoire. It's a healthy start, but alas, one that's only sustained temporarily before the sound devolves into something much more familiar and generic. There's not enough distinctive here to separate this new band from the pack, much less their predecessors....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Metalcore rockers up the ante
Underoath fine-tunes songwriting skills on latest album
For some, metalcore does nothing more than cause an instant migraine. But, for those who are especially fond of the genre’s thrashing guitar riffs and crashing cymbals, “Lost In the Sound of Separation,” the latest from Underoath, is just what the doctor ordered and offers much more than the recommended dose.
Each Underoath album has surpassed expectations, and “Lost” is no exception. The secret formula contains a measured amount of vocals, guitars, drums and synthesizers, which produces one deliciously exciting musical masterpiece. Because of this expertise, Underoath keeps swarms of head-banging teenagers coming back for more.
“Lost” stays on track with the band’s purpose — to make its beliefs heard through music and lyrics. In fact, the album’s message rings louder and is more lucid than ever. The music is like an auditory explosion that makes previous Underoath albums sound like lightweights.
The band members use their lyrics to vent about issues in their lives, and this is especially obvious on “Lost.” The album’s first single, “Desperate Times, Desperate Measures,” satisfied fans with a taste of Underoath’s new project when the song was pre-released on the band’s Myspace page in late July. Front man Spencer Chamberlain and drummer/vocalist Aaron Gillespie, who write many of the lyrics, made “Desperate” a plea for help, talking about life’s distractions and how the band members focus on their faith for comfort.
“A Fault Line, A Fault Of Mine” discusses the ability to bounce back from struggles over time. Chamberlain and Gillespie acknowledge they’re “not scared, but this is happening/I’m not afraid, but this is real,” referring to tackling adversity head-on.
After taking a listener on a wild ride, “Lost” drops the weary traveler off at a song that is the eerie aftermath of a storm. “Desolate Earth/The End Is Here” is 3 1/2 minutes of pure instrumental music and less than one minute of lyrics. In classic Underoath fashion, the song starts out calm and gradually builds up to break into a more intense sound by the end.
“Lost” could have lightened the load by a few pounds in some parts. Even fans who aren’t fazed by deafening metalcore might flinch when new songs such as “Breathing In A New Mentality” begin to scream through the speakers. Nevertheless, catchy vocal choruses and melodious instrumental phrases eventually place the album’s sound on an even keel.
This is Underoath at its best — the epitome of the band’s characteristic sound.
Christian Music News Source
For some, metalcore does nothing more than cause an instant migraine. But, for those who are especially fond of the genre’s thrashing guitar riffs and crashing cymbals, “Lost In the Sound of Separation,” the latest from Underoath, is just what the doctor ordered and offers much more than the recommended dose.
Each Underoath album has surpassed expectations, and “Lost” is no exception. The secret formula contains a measured amount of vocals, guitars, drums and synthesizers, which produces one deliciously exciting musical masterpiece. Because of this expertise, Underoath keeps swarms of head-banging teenagers coming back for more.
“Lost” stays on track with the band’s purpose — to make its beliefs heard through music and lyrics. In fact, the album’s message rings louder and is more lucid than ever. The music is like an auditory explosion that makes previous Underoath albums sound like lightweights.
The band members use their lyrics to vent about issues in their lives, and this is especially obvious on “Lost.” The album’s first single, “Desperate Times, Desperate Measures,” satisfied fans with a taste of Underoath’s new project when the song was pre-released on the band’s Myspace page in late July. Front man Spencer Chamberlain and drummer/vocalist Aaron Gillespie, who write many of the lyrics, made “Desperate” a plea for help, talking about life’s distractions and how the band members focus on their faith for comfort.
“A Fault Line, A Fault Of Mine” discusses the ability to bounce back from struggles over time. Chamberlain and Gillespie acknowledge they’re “not scared, but this is happening/I’m not afraid, but this is real,” referring to tackling adversity head-on.
After taking a listener on a wild ride, “Lost” drops the weary traveler off at a song that is the eerie aftermath of a storm. “Desolate Earth/The End Is Here” is 3 1/2 minutes of pure instrumental music and less than one minute of lyrics. In classic Underoath fashion, the song starts out calm and gradually builds up to break into a more intense sound by the end.
“Lost” could have lightened the load by a few pounds in some parts. Even fans who aren’t fazed by deafening metalcore might flinch when new songs such as “Breathing In A New Mentality” begin to scream through the speakers. Nevertheless, catchy vocal choruses and melodious instrumental phrases eventually place the album’s sound on an even keel.
This is Underoath at its best — the epitome of the band’s characteristic sound.
Christian Music News Source
Underoath differs from typical heavy metal
Underoath's new CD won't get "lost in the sound" of stereptypical metal rock
Condemning heavy metal on the grounds that it "all sounds the same" is uninformed and unfair. Part of the genre's appeal is its uniformity, but finding a band with the earmarks of the genre while pushing its boundaries is not only satisfying, but rare.
Underoath has seen many incarnations. At the time of their first release in 2002, Act of Depression, Underoath was described as a black metal band with metalcore leanings. This remained true until former lead singer Dallas Taylor left to form the Southern hardcore sensation Maylene and Sons of Disaster. Spencer Chamberlain, who took over for Taylor, released They're Only Chasing Safety with the band in 2004. The album outsold the band's three previous releases combined. In 2006 the band released Define the Great Line, an album that showed a dramatic shift towards a more thickly layered and chaotic sound for the band. Lost in the Sound of Separation, the sixth studio album from Underoath, was released on Sept. 2.
Lost in the Sound of Seperation continues the band's evolution toward innovative frontiers of heavy music. They're Only Chasing Safety was at the forefront of metalcore at its release and multiple bands mimicked what Underoath pioneered with the album. Define The Great Line saw an advancement in Chamberlain's vocal abilities thanks to coaching from Melissa Cross, the infamous instructor and creator of the "Zen of Screaming" DVDs.
What separates the new album from previous material is a solid, thickly layered sound. The album maintains an anthem-like, thunderous sound throughout, helping it stand out from previously released material. Not to say the album is not filled with characteristically chaotic and frenetic moments. Chamberlain's vocals are as furious and enraged as ever and drummer Aaron Gillespie's abilities seem to have developed.
Musically, the album is less concerned with intricate and distinct guitar riffs than creating crashing crescendos and deafening walls of sound. For fans of heavy music, that is exactly what is sought in an album. For those not so enamored with the genre, this album is even more of an acquired taste.
Lost in the Sound of Seperation is not a stereotypical metalcore album. There is nearly no use of double bass, and therefore no breakdowns to speak of, and Gillespie's clean vocals have always been tinged with a whine common of emo bands. This album is not an exercise in lyrical angst or musical weakness. It is perhaps the heaviest and most musically violent album Underoath has released. There is enough signature material to satisfy die-hard fans and enough fresh material to satisfy anyone looking for the next step in a brutal and beautiful genre. Oh, and did I mention that select copies of the album contain golden passes? In keeping with the Chocolate Factory legend, anyone in possession of a golden pass gains free admission to any Underoath show for life. Another item on the list of qualities that sets this album, and this band, apart.
Christian Music News Source
Condemning heavy metal on the grounds that it "all sounds the same" is uninformed and unfair. Part of the genre's appeal is its uniformity, but finding a band with the earmarks of the genre while pushing its boundaries is not only satisfying, but rare.
Underoath has seen many incarnations. At the time of their first release in 2002, Act of Depression, Underoath was described as a black metal band with metalcore leanings. This remained true until former lead singer Dallas Taylor left to form the Southern hardcore sensation Maylene and Sons of Disaster. Spencer Chamberlain, who took over for Taylor, released They're Only Chasing Safety with the band in 2004. The album outsold the band's three previous releases combined. In 2006 the band released Define the Great Line, an album that showed a dramatic shift towards a more thickly layered and chaotic sound for the band. Lost in the Sound of Separation, the sixth studio album from Underoath, was released on Sept. 2.
Lost in the Sound of Seperation continues the band's evolution toward innovative frontiers of heavy music. They're Only Chasing Safety was at the forefront of metalcore at its release and multiple bands mimicked what Underoath pioneered with the album. Define The Great Line saw an advancement in Chamberlain's vocal abilities thanks to coaching from Melissa Cross, the infamous instructor and creator of the "Zen of Screaming" DVDs.
What separates the new album from previous material is a solid, thickly layered sound. The album maintains an anthem-like, thunderous sound throughout, helping it stand out from previously released material. Not to say the album is not filled with characteristically chaotic and frenetic moments. Chamberlain's vocals are as furious and enraged as ever and drummer Aaron Gillespie's abilities seem to have developed.
Musically, the album is less concerned with intricate and distinct guitar riffs than creating crashing crescendos and deafening walls of sound. For fans of heavy music, that is exactly what is sought in an album. For those not so enamored with the genre, this album is even more of an acquired taste.
Lost in the Sound of Seperation is not a stereotypical metalcore album. There is nearly no use of double bass, and therefore no breakdowns to speak of, and Gillespie's clean vocals have always been tinged with a whine common of emo bands. This album is not an exercise in lyrical angst or musical weakness. It is perhaps the heaviest and most musically violent album Underoath has released. There is enough signature material to satisfy die-hard fans and enough fresh material to satisfy anyone looking for the next step in a brutal and beautiful genre. Oh, and did I mention that select copies of the album contain golden passes? In keeping with the Chocolate Factory legend, anyone in possession of a golden pass gains free admission to any Underoath show for life. Another item on the list of qualities that sets this album, and this band, apart.
Christian Music News Source
Nothing is lost on Underoath's latest effort
Underoath (please don't laugh) recently released their newest full length "Lost In The Sound Of Separation." Underoath has always been known for an unexpected blending of hardcore and emo, but on their latest effort the formula has become far less formulaic. In areas where pop hooks would wrap and surround more abrasive textures on earlier CDs, there's less of a line between the hardcore and metal elements of their sound. In simpler terms, Underoath isn't the same cookie cutter "scream for the sake of attracting 13-year-old girls-band" they used to be.
The opening track bursts to life with bare-bones drumming and screamer Spencer Chamberlain's incomparable range. Sure, range isn't usually something discussed about when it comes to screamers, but honestly, the lows and highs he's capable of pulling off in one breathe turns aggression into an art.
The rest of the album stomps and quivers along, playing with dark and metallic riffs deep enough to live inside. Timothy McTague's guitar is both beautiful and mechanically jarring, and through relative simple riffs, he pulls off what few hardcore, metal, or heavy rock bands can do, and that's find intelligence in the chaos.
Rounding out their melody, drummer and singer Aaron Gillespie adds a human side to their vocals, but much more importantly, his drumming might very easily be one of the biggest stars of the album. Whether it's the mixing, or simply what he's playing, but the drums in "Lost In The Sound Of Separation" are unbelievable when compared to what they've done before.
The single most impressive thing, though, about what they've produced is the maturity. Coming to terms with the very small point of view expressed in typical hardcore and metal is always a tough thing to do for similar bands. How do you progress a sound almost singularly known for stunted aggression and simplicity? While Underoath's newest take on the genre might not impress diehard fans, it does unquestionably transcend.
It may seem odd, but their Christian-rock lens definitely gives them a new perspective. Instead of having metalcore riffs chugging under the typical "glory be to God" message, they bend both mentalities. Lyricists Gillespie and Chamberlain use Christian undertones as a launching point and what comes from it is an aggression and sadness that seems far more genuine then the typical. The loss of innocence stemming from a religious disillusionment is not only incredibly interesting to listen to, but at the same time adds such a natural panic to Chamberlain's guttural cries for help.
Simply put, "Lost In The Sound Of Separation," is constructed from opposites and because of the confidence to push their sound, they make something of which we rarely hear: a hardcore album with depth. If you can get past their history and listen to "รข€¦Sound Of Separation" as just an album, what you'll find will surprise you and in the best way.
Christian Music News Source
The opening track bursts to life with bare-bones drumming and screamer Spencer Chamberlain's incomparable range. Sure, range isn't usually something discussed about when it comes to screamers, but honestly, the lows and highs he's capable of pulling off in one breathe turns aggression into an art.
The rest of the album stomps and quivers along, playing with dark and metallic riffs deep enough to live inside. Timothy McTague's guitar is both beautiful and mechanically jarring, and through relative simple riffs, he pulls off what few hardcore, metal, or heavy rock bands can do, and that's find intelligence in the chaos.
Rounding out their melody, drummer and singer Aaron Gillespie adds a human side to their vocals, but much more importantly, his drumming might very easily be one of the biggest stars of the album. Whether it's the mixing, or simply what he's playing, but the drums in "Lost In The Sound Of Separation" are unbelievable when compared to what they've done before.
The single most impressive thing, though, about what they've produced is the maturity. Coming to terms with the very small point of view expressed in typical hardcore and metal is always a tough thing to do for similar bands. How do you progress a sound almost singularly known for stunted aggression and simplicity? While Underoath's newest take on the genre might not impress diehard fans, it does unquestionably transcend.
It may seem odd, but their Christian-rock lens definitely gives them a new perspective. Instead of having metalcore riffs chugging under the typical "glory be to God" message, they bend both mentalities. Lyricists Gillespie and Chamberlain use Christian undertones as a launching point and what comes from it is an aggression and sadness that seems far more genuine then the typical. The loss of innocence stemming from a religious disillusionment is not only incredibly interesting to listen to, but at the same time adds such a natural panic to Chamberlain's guttural cries for help.
Simply put, "Lost In The Sound Of Separation," is constructed from opposites and because of the confidence to push their sound, they make something of which we rarely hear: a hardcore album with depth. If you can get past their history and listen to "รข€¦Sound Of Separation" as just an album, what you'll find will surprise you and in the best way.
Christian Music News Source
Underoath U.S. Tour Announced
Metal band hitting the road this fall to show near you...
Underoath is kicking off their U.S. headlining tour this month and will be coming through Orlando, FL on October 15 at House of Blues. The band will be on tour with Saosin, The Devil Wears Prada, and P.O.S. supporting their new album Lost In The Sound Of Seperation.
U.S Tour Dates:
Oct 15, 2008 Orlando, FL House of Blues
Oct 16, 2008 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade
Oct 17, 2008 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade
Oct 18, 2008 Charlotte, NC Amos' Southend
Oct 19, 2008 Richmond, VA The National
Oct 21, 2008 Baltimore, MD Ram's Head Live!
Oct 22, 2008 Philadelphia, PA Electric Factory
Oct 23, 2008 Hartford, CT Webster Theatre
Oct 24, 2008 Worcester, MA Palladium
Oct 25, 2008 Sayerville, NJ Starland Ballroom
Oct 26, 2008 New York, NY Terminal 5
Oct 28, 2008 Rochester, NY Water Street Music Hall
Oct 29, 2008 Cheswick, PA Gravity
Oct 30, 2008 Cincinnati, OH Bogarts
Oct 31, 2008 Royal Oak, MI Royal Oak Music Theatre
Nov 01, 2008 Chicago, IL Riviera Theatre
Nov 02, 2008 Sauget, IL Pops
Nov 04, 2008 Milwaukee, WI Eagles Club
Nov 05, 2008 St Paul, MN The Myth
Nov 06, 2008 Kansas City, MO Beaumont Club
Nov 07, 2008 Denver, CO The Fillmore Auditorium
Nov 08, 2008 Salt Lake City, UT In the Venue
Nov 10, 2008 Seattle, WA Showbox at the Market
Nov 11, 2008 Portland, OR Roseland Theatre
Nov 13, 2008 San Francisco, CA The Grand Ballroom
Nov 14, 2008 Ventura, California Ventura Theater
Nov 15, 2008 Irvine, CA Bren Events Center
Nov 16, 2008 San Diego, California Soma
Nov 18, 2008 Las Vegas, NV House Of Blues
Nov 19, 2008 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theatre
Nov 20, 2008 Albuquerque, NM Sunshine Theatre
Nov 21, 2008 San Antonio, Tx Sunset Station
Nov 22, 2008 Dallas, Tx Palladium Ballroom
Nov 23, 2008 Houston, TX Verizon Wireless Theatre
Nov 25, 2008 Tampa, Fl The Ritz
Christian Music News Source
Underoath is kicking off their U.S. headlining tour this month and will be coming through Orlando, FL on October 15 at House of Blues. The band will be on tour with Saosin, The Devil Wears Prada, and P.O.S. supporting their new album Lost In The Sound Of Seperation.
U.S Tour Dates:
Oct 15, 2008 Orlando, FL House of Blues
Oct 16, 2008 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade
Oct 17, 2008 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade
Oct 18, 2008 Charlotte, NC Amos' Southend
Oct 19, 2008 Richmond, VA The National
Oct 21, 2008 Baltimore, MD Ram's Head Live!
Oct 22, 2008 Philadelphia, PA Electric Factory
Oct 23, 2008 Hartford, CT Webster Theatre
Oct 24, 2008 Worcester, MA Palladium
Oct 25, 2008 Sayerville, NJ Starland Ballroom
Oct 26, 2008 New York, NY Terminal 5
Oct 28, 2008 Rochester, NY Water Street Music Hall
Oct 29, 2008 Cheswick, PA Gravity
Oct 30, 2008 Cincinnati, OH Bogarts
Oct 31, 2008 Royal Oak, MI Royal Oak Music Theatre
Nov 01, 2008 Chicago, IL Riviera Theatre
Nov 02, 2008 Sauget, IL Pops
Nov 04, 2008 Milwaukee, WI Eagles Club
Nov 05, 2008 St Paul, MN The Myth
Nov 06, 2008 Kansas City, MO Beaumont Club
Nov 07, 2008 Denver, CO The Fillmore Auditorium
Nov 08, 2008 Salt Lake City, UT In the Venue
Nov 10, 2008 Seattle, WA Showbox at the Market
Nov 11, 2008 Portland, OR Roseland Theatre
Nov 13, 2008 San Francisco, CA The Grand Ballroom
Nov 14, 2008 Ventura, California Ventura Theater
Nov 15, 2008 Irvine, CA Bren Events Center
Nov 16, 2008 San Diego, California Soma
Nov 18, 2008 Las Vegas, NV House Of Blues
Nov 19, 2008 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theatre
Nov 20, 2008 Albuquerque, NM Sunshine Theatre
Nov 21, 2008 San Antonio, Tx Sunset Station
Nov 22, 2008 Dallas, Tx Palladium Ballroom
Nov 23, 2008 Houston, TX Verizon Wireless Theatre
Nov 25, 2008 Tampa, Fl The Ritz
Christian Music News Source
Underoath discuss their new album
As Underoath celebrate the release of their new album Lost In The Sound Of Separation, FemaleFirst caught up with the guys to chat about Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, Facial Fuzz and super groups.
What have you been up to recently?
Just over here in the UK playing shows and riding around on the bus and eating Prawn Cocktail crisps!
You have just released Lost In The Sound Of Separation; what has the reaction been like?
It’s been great here in the UK; we’ve never been out of our home country for a CD release so it’s quite different being over here but I think it’s going well because people from the states have said they like it and we’ve been getting great reviews.
How would you describe the sound of the album?
It’s heavy, aggressive, honest and very fast.
The album has received amazing reviews, would you say it’s your best work yet?
I believe so for sure. Every time you take two years to support a new one and write a new one, your best efforts are put forward.
What’s the meaning behind the title?
It is actually a song lyric and the record deals with pain and dealing with your life. It points to hope in the end but we all get lost in the inconsistencies and shortcomings and it’s about the hope at the end of that.
Do you have a favourite track?
Either The Created Void or Too Bright To See: Too Loud To Hear. I’m not really quite sure as we haven’t have much time with it yet as we haven’t played a lot songs from it as it’s still really fresh and live we only play three or four songs from it as you don’t want to go play a load of songs that people don’t know.
You promoted the record by growing beards and encouraging your fans to do the same; do you still have your furry fashion accessories?
Unfortunately I can’t grow facial hair. I have a baby face - I’m 25 years old and I still can’t even grow any peach fuzz so I couldn’t take any part in it. My wife thinks it’s good though!
You also put ‘golden passes’ inside some of the albums; was this inspired by Charlie And The Chocolate Factory?
I think obviously it’s one inspiration but we always thought it would be really neat to have a handful of people who could get into any show free for the rest of our existence. And its not just in your home country; if a kid gets one in London, he can use it at a gig in China if he wants. No matter where we are in the world you can get in with no ticket price.
You’ve been around for a while and have seen a lot of bands come and go; what do you think of the bands that are dominating the scene at the moment?
It’s really different because back in the day it was very underground and private and these days it has become almost mainstream an din a sense there are so many bands all over the radio and TV. I remember being 17 years old and seeing the band Thursday on MTV and being completely blown away that they were being allowed to be played on there and that’s what started the whole media thing and allow bands like us to be on MTV.
It’s interesting to see the change in the influx of the scene.
Do you feel at all threatened by the new bands that are emerging?
I think that’s inevitable; I mean we’re all young but there’s always going to be a band full of 17 year old kids coming out trying to make it.
What do you think makes you different?
I think that everyone has something different to offer but Underoath strive to be honest and real with our listeners and to make the best product we know how to make whilst staying true to ourselves. There are a lot of great acts out there and I’m not the person to say who’s wrong or right.
Who do you look up to within the music industry?
It is people like Bono and Chris Martin. I love all types of music but as far as the industry guys go: definitely those two are my biggest influences.
Who would make up your super group?
I have no idea! Can it be dead or alive? John Bonham, Noel Gallagher, the bass player is the hardest one, maybe Bootsy Collins; and either Robert Plant or Bono: I cant decide.
Ooh, good choices! We ask everyone we interview to come up with a question for the next person we interview....and Electrovamp want to know; ““If you were in a fire; which (only one!) band member would you save?”
I plead the fifth; I cant answer that, it’s terrible, there is no way I can answer that question! That’s so morbid!
Okay, so what would you save if all your equipment was in there?
Our passports so we could get back home!
Very diplomatic answer there! So finally, what would you like to ask the next person I interview?
What is your least favourite food?
Watch this space to find out Sarah Whatmore’s favourite food
Christian Music News Source
What have you been up to recently?
Just over here in the UK playing shows and riding around on the bus and eating Prawn Cocktail crisps!
You have just released Lost In The Sound Of Separation; what has the reaction been like?
It’s been great here in the UK; we’ve never been out of our home country for a CD release so it’s quite different being over here but I think it’s going well because people from the states have said they like it and we’ve been getting great reviews.
How would you describe the sound of the album?
It’s heavy, aggressive, honest and very fast.
The album has received amazing reviews, would you say it’s your best work yet?
I believe so for sure. Every time you take two years to support a new one and write a new one, your best efforts are put forward.
What’s the meaning behind the title?
It is actually a song lyric and the record deals with pain and dealing with your life. It points to hope in the end but we all get lost in the inconsistencies and shortcomings and it’s about the hope at the end of that.
Do you have a favourite track?
Either The Created Void or Too Bright To See: Too Loud To Hear. I’m not really quite sure as we haven’t have much time with it yet as we haven’t played a lot songs from it as it’s still really fresh and live we only play three or four songs from it as you don’t want to go play a load of songs that people don’t know.
You promoted the record by growing beards and encouraging your fans to do the same; do you still have your furry fashion accessories?
Unfortunately I can’t grow facial hair. I have a baby face - I’m 25 years old and I still can’t even grow any peach fuzz so I couldn’t take any part in it. My wife thinks it’s good though!
You also put ‘golden passes’ inside some of the albums; was this inspired by Charlie And The Chocolate Factory?
I think obviously it’s one inspiration but we always thought it would be really neat to have a handful of people who could get into any show free for the rest of our existence. And its not just in your home country; if a kid gets one in London, he can use it at a gig in China if he wants. No matter where we are in the world you can get in with no ticket price.
You’ve been around for a while and have seen a lot of bands come and go; what do you think of the bands that are dominating the scene at the moment?
It’s really different because back in the day it was very underground and private and these days it has become almost mainstream an din a sense there are so many bands all over the radio and TV. I remember being 17 years old and seeing the band Thursday on MTV and being completely blown away that they were being allowed to be played on there and that’s what started the whole media thing and allow bands like us to be on MTV.
It’s interesting to see the change in the influx of the scene.
Do you feel at all threatened by the new bands that are emerging?
I think that’s inevitable; I mean we’re all young but there’s always going to be a band full of 17 year old kids coming out trying to make it.
What do you think makes you different?
I think that everyone has something different to offer but Underoath strive to be honest and real with our listeners and to make the best product we know how to make whilst staying true to ourselves. There are a lot of great acts out there and I’m not the person to say who’s wrong or right.
Who do you look up to within the music industry?
It is people like Bono and Chris Martin. I love all types of music but as far as the industry guys go: definitely those two are my biggest influences.
Who would make up your super group?
I have no idea! Can it be dead or alive? John Bonham, Noel Gallagher, the bass player is the hardest one, maybe Bootsy Collins; and either Robert Plant or Bono: I cant decide.
Ooh, good choices! We ask everyone we interview to come up with a question for the next person we interview....and Electrovamp want to know; ““If you were in a fire; which (only one!) band member would you save?”
I plead the fifth; I cant answer that, it’s terrible, there is no way I can answer that question! That’s so morbid!
Okay, so what would you save if all your equipment was in there?
Our passports so we could get back home!
Very diplomatic answer there! So finally, what would you like to ask the next person I interview?
What is your least favourite food?
Watch this space to find out Sarah Whatmore’s favourite food
Christian Music News Source
Vodafone’s People Choice Award finalists 2008
Vodafone’s People Choice Award finalists 2008
The people have spoken and the finalists for the Vodafone People’s Choice Award are: Antiform, Horsemen Family, Nesian Mystik, Parachute Band, and The DFenders.
After more than four weeks of voting by the New Zealand public and rallying of music fans, the nominees of more than 100 NZ artists and bands have been whittled down to these five finalists.
The Vodafone People’s Choice Awards finalists will now battle it out until voting closes midnight, 3 October and the winner will be announced at the Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards.
Antiform, whose members include Josh Purcell, Brendon Spain and Luke Purcell, are famous for it’s breakbeats and Drum ‘n’ Bass and their commercial hit single ‘Got to be you’ with NZ’s man of the moment Tiki Taane.
Horsemen Family are exactly as described, a whole family of music artists under the Deceptikonz new indie label Horsemen Records. The band is lead by respected local stars, Mareko, Savage, Alphrisk and Devolo (Deceptikonz) and showcases the new talent of Frum Tha Stablez, Axeman, MZRE, Lyric, John Matrix and producers DJ Montana, DJ Shady-1 and DJ Blaze.
Nesian Mystik (Te Awanui Reeder, Donald McNulty, David Atai, Junior Rikiau, Heath Manukau and Feleti Strickson-Pua) and their cultural backgrounds unite a remarkable diversity of Polynesia in bringing together Maori, Tongan, Samoan and Cook Island. Their lyrical themes are conscious and proud. They sing about what’s close to them, drawing on their cultures and families for inspiration, as well as the timeless topic of going out and having fun as well as their humorous take on hip-hop culture.
Parachute Band formed in 1996 to perform for the New Zealand Parachute Music Festival. Reformed with a new line up two years ago, band members Sam de Jong, Omega Levine, Rhys Machell, Simon Moore and Alister Wood have a huge following worldwide.
And last, but not least, The DFenders, a Dunedin-based band whose members include Adon Moskal, Luke Herlihy, Mike Carter and Matt Taine, are making a name for themselves with their catchy, hard-rocking 80s rock songs.
For this round of voting fans can only vote for one of the five finalists listed above and can only vote twice during the entire final voting period –once by TXT (free TXT VOTE[space]artist name to 787 ) and once online at www. vnzma.co.nz.
The winner of the award will be announced at the Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards on 8 October 2008.
Christian Music News Source
The people have spoken and the finalists for the Vodafone People’s Choice Award are: Antiform, Horsemen Family, Nesian Mystik, Parachute Band, and The DFenders.
After more than four weeks of voting by the New Zealand public and rallying of music fans, the nominees of more than 100 NZ artists and bands have been whittled down to these five finalists.
The Vodafone People’s Choice Awards finalists will now battle it out until voting closes midnight, 3 October and the winner will be announced at the Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards.
Antiform, whose members include Josh Purcell, Brendon Spain and Luke Purcell, are famous for it’s breakbeats and Drum ‘n’ Bass and their commercial hit single ‘Got to be you’ with NZ’s man of the moment Tiki Taane.
Horsemen Family are exactly as described, a whole family of music artists under the Deceptikonz new indie label Horsemen Records. The band is lead by respected local stars, Mareko, Savage, Alphrisk and Devolo (Deceptikonz) and showcases the new talent of Frum Tha Stablez, Axeman, MZRE, Lyric, John Matrix and producers DJ Montana, DJ Shady-1 and DJ Blaze.
Nesian Mystik (Te Awanui Reeder, Donald McNulty, David Atai, Junior Rikiau, Heath Manukau and Feleti Strickson-Pua) and their cultural backgrounds unite a remarkable diversity of Polynesia in bringing together Maori, Tongan, Samoan and Cook Island. Their lyrical themes are conscious and proud. They sing about what’s close to them, drawing on their cultures and families for inspiration, as well as the timeless topic of going out and having fun as well as their humorous take on hip-hop culture.
Parachute Band formed in 1996 to perform for the New Zealand Parachute Music Festival. Reformed with a new line up two years ago, band members Sam de Jong, Omega Levine, Rhys Machell, Simon Moore and Alister Wood have a huge following worldwide.
And last, but not least, The DFenders, a Dunedin-based band whose members include Adon Moskal, Luke Herlihy, Mike Carter and Matt Taine, are making a name for themselves with their catchy, hard-rocking 80s rock songs.
For this round of voting fans can only vote for one of the five finalists listed above and can only vote twice during the entire final voting period –once by TXT (free TXT VOTE[space]artist name to 787 ) and once online at www. vnzma.co.nz.
The winner of the award will be announced at the Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards on 8 October 2008.
Christian Music News Source
Friday, September 19, 2008
Parachute Band's new album to hit UK shelves in October
Created by New Zealand's high-energy worship songwriters, Parachute Band announces their latest CD Technicolor which will be released by Integrity Music in the UK in
October.
Technicolor captures the electrifying and energetic sounds and songs of the New Zealand church. The songs were written with a deep passion about transforming one's life
to that of a Christian. From "Come to the River" to "Living Rain," the songs express liberty in being washed in the revitalising and refreshing water of God.
"Technicolor is about people coming to God, getting washed again, ridding themselves of their sin, and being washed and flaming with colour," said band member Sam de Jong.
The term "technicolour" comes from the three-strip colour prism which is parallel to the three-step process of a Christian described by de Jong.
Parachute Band's determination for spreading the Gospel through music is apparent from their tour dates scheduled for this year. With concerts in Singapore, the Philippines,
Africa and the US, Parachute Band will be ministering to thousands with different religious backgrounds.
Originally founded in 1996 as the "house band" for New Zealand's Parachute Music Festival, Parachute Band released seven albums in ten years including six that were
certified gold in New Zealand. A decade later after the birth of the band, the mantle was passed from one generation to the next.
Last year, the new members of Parachute Band released the critically-acclaimed Road Maps and Revelations. Though the members have changed, the band's mission is still
the same for Omega Levine, Sam de Jong, Simon Moore, Rhys Machelle and Alister Woods: to lead people of all races and ages in worship, using their songs as a tool to see
lives changed and hearts melted before God.
Christian Music News Source
October.
Technicolor captures the electrifying and energetic sounds and songs of the New Zealand church. The songs were written with a deep passion about transforming one's life
to that of a Christian. From "Come to the River" to "Living Rain," the songs express liberty in being washed in the revitalising and refreshing water of God.
"Technicolor is about people coming to God, getting washed again, ridding themselves of their sin, and being washed and flaming with colour," said band member Sam de Jong.
The term "technicolour" comes from the three-strip colour prism which is parallel to the three-step process of a Christian described by de Jong.
Parachute Band's determination for spreading the Gospel through music is apparent from their tour dates scheduled for this year. With concerts in Singapore, the Philippines,
Africa and the US, Parachute Band will be ministering to thousands with different religious backgrounds.
Originally founded in 1996 as the "house band" for New Zealand's Parachute Music Festival, Parachute Band released seven albums in ten years including six that were
certified gold in New Zealand. A decade later after the birth of the band, the mantle was passed from one generation to the next.
Last year, the new members of Parachute Band released the critically-acclaimed Road Maps and Revelations. Though the members have changed, the band's mission is still
the same for Omega Levine, Sam de Jong, Simon Moore, Rhys Machelle and Alister Woods: to lead people of all races and ages in worship, using their songs as a tool to see
lives changed and hearts melted before God.
Christian Music News Source
Discography
Albums
* 1997 - You Alone
* 1998 - Always and Forever
* 1999 - Adore
* 2000 - The Collection V
* 2000 - Love
* 2001 - Amazing
* 2003 - Glorious
* 2005 - All The Earth
* 2007 - Roadmaps and Revelations
* 2008 - Technicolor
Christian Music Links!
* 1997 - You Alone
* 1998 - Always and Forever
* 1999 - Adore
* 2000 - The Collection V
* 2000 - Love
* 2001 - Amazing
* 2003 - Glorious
* 2005 - All The Earth
* 2007 - Roadmaps and Revelations
* 2008 - Technicolor
Christian Music Links!
History
Parachute Band is the worship ministry of the New Zealand-based Christian organisation Parachute Music.
The Parachute Band was formed in 1995 to lead worship at the annual Parachute Festival, and has since grown into a full-time endeavour. Parachute Band collects and records New
Zealand-written contemporary worship music, and performs in New Zealand and worldwide.
In 2006 all of the original members retired from the band, and five young musicians replaced them.
Christian Music Links!
The Parachute Band was formed in 1995 to lead worship at the annual Parachute Festival, and has since grown into a full-time endeavour. Parachute Band collects and records New
Zealand-written contemporary worship music, and performs in New Zealand and worldwide.
In 2006 all of the original members retired from the band, and five young musicians replaced them.
Christian Music Links!
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