Christian Music (Official Thread)

[Regards]

A lot of random threads out there, but I'm going to go ahead and make an official. Seems to be a lot of people on here into Christian music, so I figured instead of going off the beaten path on the threads we have, make an official to jam out in. A lot of good music coming out this year, and I figured there's a lot to go back and rediscover through rec's and whatnot.

So if you think Church Music is one of the best albums to come out this year, find Jesus Freak to be a classic, and remember when you used to consider Demon Hunter as Hardcore, this is the thread for you.

[xJesusFreakx]

Crap... You misspelled "official." This kind of thread will get enough ridicule with that, lol; might want to fix it.

I wholeheartedly support this thread's premise, though, particularly, the Jesus Freak reference. ;-)

[jtsnazzy]

I'ts a big big house, with lots and lots of room.

[Regards]

I don't think I can rename it unless I delete it. Ah well. I knew you'd like the jf reference. I was just jamming to Church music and thought this might have some potential. More than the idea of the Politics thread :-p.

Anyways I think a good started would be everyone's top 5 of all time/top 5 of the year. Either or work. I'll post mine after I study for this environment final a little more.

[xJesusFreakx]

I'ts a big big house, with lots and lots of room.

YES!!

Audio Adrenaline, dc Talk, Jars of Clay, the O.C. Supertones... I'm kind of a big fan of 90's CCM.

[stevo71]

I like bands with Christians in them more than bands who actually brand themselves as Christian bands, if that makes sense. My favorite Christian bands are probably Skillet, Underoath, and David Crowder Band.

And Jesus Freak eats my insides away. Good message, but it comes across as extremely sarcastic at times. Not my thing at all.

[Regards]

I found an O. C. Supertones album at a goodwill this summer, but regretfully didn't buy it.

[Rodeo]

My first ever concert was Alive '96 with MxPx, Driver 8, Zao, and the rest of the Tooth & Nail Line-up.

[Regards]

I like bands with Christians in them more than bands who actually brand themselves as Christian bands, if that makes sense. My favorite Christian bands are probably Skillet, Underoath, and David Crowder Band.

And Jesus Freak eats my insides away. Good message, but it comes across as extremely sarcastic at times. Not my thing at all.
Its the message that counts, not how they label themselves, or how others label the band.

[Regards]

My first ever concert was Alive '96 with MxPx, Driver 8, Zao, and the rest of the Tooth & Nail Line-up.
Seeing Zao and MXPX back in the late 90's would've been amazing. I saw mxpx 3 years ago and they put on a great show.

[xJesusFreakx]

I don't think I can rename it unless I delete it. Ah well. I knew you'd like the jf reference. I was just jamming to Church music and thought this might have some potential. More than the idea of the Politics thread :-p.

Anyways I think a good started would be everyone's top 5 of all time/top 5 of the year. Either or work. I'll post mine after I study for this environment final a little more.

Well, it's still pretty early, so maybe deleting it wouldn't be a bad thing? That, or it could be a running joke like the "Jokes, Pics you normally wouldn't psot" threads. Good first question, though. Hm... Oh, and lol at that thread. At least we tried?

[stevo71]

Yeah, I agree with that. Oh and add Derek Webb to my favorite Christian artists.

[Regards]

My first ever concert was Alive '96 with MxPx, Driver 8, Zao, and the rest of the Tooth & Nail Line-up.
It's good to see you back by the way. How have you been man? The band still going well?
Well, it's still pretty early, so maybe deleting it wouldn't be a bad thing? That, or it could be a running joke like the "Jokes, Pics you normally wouldn't psot" threads. Good first question, though. Hm... Oh, and lol at that thread. At least we tried?
Eh, sure. So official we needed two "l's", you know, for twice the love. And yeah, we tried, I really thought it was possible, I was naive haha.

[xJesusFreakx]

Top fives? Hm... We'll see how this goes.

All time:
1.) dc Talk - Jesus Freak (Duh. Favorite album ever.)
2.) mewithoutYou - Brother, Sister (Is this album still considered Christian? The new one was a vague spirituality, but I think this counts.)
3.) Bradley Hathaway - A Mouth Full of Dust (Yeah, it's recent, but I love it that much.)
4.) Project 86 - Truthless Heroes (This is a common least favorite album of theirs, but I love the social commentary.)
5.) David Crowder*Band - A Collision (This album's a worship masterpiece.)

This year:
1.) Bradley Hathaway - A Mouth Full of Dust
2.) David Crowder*Band - Church Music
3.) Relient K - Forget and Not Slow Down
4.) Project 86 - Picket Fence Cartel
5.) Hands - Creator

[Regards]

Top fives? Hm... We'll see how this goes.

All time:
1.) dc Talk - Jesus Freak (Duh. Favorite album ever.)
2.) mewithoutYou - Brother, Sister (Is this album still considered Christian? The new one was a vague spirituality, but I think this counts.)
3.) Bradley Hathaway - A Mouth Full of Dust (Yeah, it's recent, but I love it that much.)
4.) Project 86 - Truthless Heroes (This is a common least favorite album of theirs, but I love the social commentary.)
5.) David Crowder*Band - A Collision (This album's a worship masterpiece.)

This year:
1.) Bradley Hathaway - A Mouth Full of Dust
2.) David Crowder*Band - Church Music
3.) Relient K - Forget and Not Slow Down
4.) Project 86 - Picket Fence Cartel
5.) Hands - Creator
Mmm. Great list. mwY will definitely be on mine. I'm supprised to see Hands at number 5, I thought you really liked it? I wouldn't have thought a P86 album to beat it out

[Rodeo]

It's good to see you back by the way. How have you been man? The band still going well?


Thank you sooo much man! Yea, I really haven't had much time for AP due to writing the record. So far we have been in the studio for over 100 hours and we are halfway done through twelve songs. It is my magnum opus.

[stevo71]

5. Jars of Clay - Good Monsters
4. DCB - A Collision
3. Underoath - Lost in the Sound of Seperation
2. Derek Webb - Stockholm Syndrome
1. Anberlin - Cities

[Regards]

Thank you sooo much man! Yea, I really haven't had much time for AP due to writing the record. So far we have been in the studio for over 100 hours and we are halfway done through twelve songs. It is my magnum opus.
That's hardcore man. Awesome though, can't wait for you to get it out. If you want, my band finished up our album and its in my sig(selfless promo). If you guys are every playing in Chicago, I'm there.

[Regards]

5. Jars of Clay - Good Monsters
4. DCB - A Collision
3. Underoath - Lost in the Sound of Seperation
2. Derek Webb - Stockholm Syndrome
1. Anberlin - Cities
I never got the love for Cities. I loved Never Take Friendship Personal, and everything they've done since I really haven't enjoyed. Good to see some DCB on there though. I can't decide if I enjoy A Collision more or Illuminate. Although I might like Church Music more than both of them.

[xJesusFreakx]

Mmm. Great list. mwY will definitely be on mine. I'm supprised to see Hands at number 5, I thought you really liked it? I wouldn't have thought a P86 album to beat it out

Bradley released what may be one of my all time favorite albums, so he easily tops that list. Crowder gets the second spot because, well, it's just an amazing album, capable of lasting for over 70 min without any blatant filler tracks. Relient K's new one is my favorite of theirs, and it's just a really good pop album with a lot to like about it. Project 86 has become one of my favorite bands as of late, and their new album is just a really fun heavy album with some great lyrics (I love Andrew Schwab so much). Hands is great, but they just couldn't sneak their way up any higher than that.

[stevo71]

Cities is an epic album from beginning to end.

I haven't heard enough of Church Music yet, but i did not like Illuminate much.

[Regards]

Bradley released what may be one of my all time favorite albums, so he easily tops that list. Crowder gets the second spot because, well, it's just an amazing album, capable of lasting for over 70 min without any blatant filler tracks. Relient K's new one is my favorite of theirs, and it's just a really good pop album with a lot to like about it. Project 86 has become one of my favorite bands as of late, and their new album is just a really fun heavy album with some great lyrics (I love Andrew Schwab so much). Hands is great, but they just couldn't sneak their way up any higher than that.
Yeah, I totally get the top 2, but the other 2 surprised me. I haven't listened to either of those albums yet, so I'll have to check them out.

I think my top 5 for this year would be:

1. David Crowder Band - Church Music
2. Sleeping Giant - Sons of Thunder
3. Bradley Hathaway - Mouth Full Of Dust
4. As Cities Burn - Hell Or High Water
5. The Glorious Unseen - The Hope That Lies Within You

[stevo71]

I forgot about Hell or High Water. Good stuff, but not on my top 5. I stopped listening to it pretty fast...

[stevo71]

Oh, I wasn't really sure if it counts as Christian or not, but if it does (m)orning by Mae would my favorite Christian release of the year.

[xJesusFreakx]

Yeah, I totally get the top 2, but the other 2 surprised me. I haven't listened to either of those albums yet, so I'll have to check them out.

I think my top 5 for this year would be:

1. David Crowder Band - Church Music
2. Sleeping Giant - Sons of Thunder
3. Bradley Hathaway - Mouth Full Of Dust
4. As Cities Burn - Hell Or High Water
5. The Glorious Unseen - The Hope That Lies Within You

My favorite moments on Sons of Thunder are great, but the rest bores me. Sleeping Giant is one of those bands that love a lot more than I really like them, if that makes any sense. I wish I liked them more.

Hell of High Water was a favorite when I first heard it, but it just didn't have any significant replay value for me. When I put it in, I still thoroughly enjoy it, but that doesn't happen as much as it did earlier this year. I love "Daughter," "Made Too Pretty," and "Gates," though.

[Regards]

Oh, I wasn't really sure if it counts as Christian or not, but if it does (m)orning by Mae would my favorite Christian release of the year.
I heard those album(s? not sure if they did an evening) were actually really good. Mae I thought had an amazing release in The Everglow and then fizzled terribly with Singularity
My favorite moments on Sons of Thunder are great, but the rest bores me. Sleeping Giant is one of those bands that love a lot more than I really like them, if that makes any sense. I wish I liked them more.

Hell of High Water was a favorite when I first heard it, but it just didn't have any significant replay value for me. When I put it in, I still thoroughly enjoy it, but that doesn't happen as much as it did earlier this year. I love "Daughter," "Made Too Pretty," and "Gates," though.
I guess I'm just a sucker for the absolute intensity of Sons of Thunder, and the fact that those dudes practically make metal/hardcore worship albums. Absolutely love it. Hell Or High Water I can totally get what you're saying. I don't throw it in that much, but when I do I belt it. Pirate Blues is one of my favorite songs of the year easily.

[stevo71]

I really like Singularity, and I have yet to get Destination:Beautiful, but I'm sure its great. But with Singularity, it seems to be a love it or hate it thing. But The Everglow is greatness.

[Regards]

Never take down a full pot of coffee at 10pm at night.

[xJesusFreakx]

I guess I'm just a sucker for the absolute intensity of Sons of Thunder, and the fact that those dudes practically make metal/hardcore worship albums. Absolutely love it. Hell Or High Water I can totally get what you're saying. I don't throw it in that much, but when I do I belt it. Pirate Blues is one of my favorite songs of the year easily.

I love the passion of Sleeping Giant, but something about them just doesn't click for me as much as I'd think it would, especially since I like so much about them.

[boxingwithstars]

i've been really into Josh Garrels (http://www.myspace.com/joshgarrels) lately. i would usually consider lyrics like his a little too preachy or religion-centric for my tastes, but i just can't help but dig his music.

[brentywat]

i was a big steven curtis chapman fan back in the day.....

audio adrenaline, dc talk, oc supertones, relient k, five iron frenzy....all great bands.

[xJesusFreakx]

Never take down a full pot of coffee at 10pm at night.

Ha, great life choice. I drank large quantities of Mountain Dew tonight to stay awake for my two Bible study/classes (sick brag in a Christian music thread, I know), and I'm still not too tired. I'll regret it tomorrow.

[Regards]

i've been really into Josh Garrels (http://www.myspace.com/joshgarrels) lately. i would usually consider lyrics like his a little too preachy or religion-centric for my tastes, but i just can't help but dig his music.
A lot of great bands in his top friends. I'll check him out in a few.

[Regards]

Ha, great life choice. I drank large quantities of Mountain Dew tonight to stay awake for my two Bible study/classes (sick brag in a Christian music thread, I know), and I'm still not too tired. I'll regret it tomorrow.
I've got a final tomorrow for Enviroment, which I'm pretty sure I'll do find in, but I still haven't finished all the text reading and go through the review. Ahg. Yeah, tomorrow will be a fun day. Then Intro to Bible midterm to study for tomorrow night. Woo!

[xJesusFreakx]

I've got a final tomorrow for Enviroment, which I'm pretty sure I'll do find in, but I still haven't finished all the text reading and go through the review. Ahg. Yeah, tomorrow will be a fun day. Then Intro to Bible midterm to study for tomorrow night. Woo!

Ha, I love college. Art classes make my semester too easy for my own good. ;-) Good luck (or good predestination? Oh snap...) with those.

[Regards]

Ha, I love college. Art classes make my semester too easy for my own good. ;-) Good luck (or good predestination? Oh snap...) with those.
Hahaha. I'm stoked, I'm going into this final with a 99% in the class, so I don't want to bomb this. I can't remember the last time I got a legit A in a legit class. Also I should mention that the word legit in college drives me insane and I used it early today and I'm not letting myself live it down.

[murrich]

THlgU-8dMYg

[Regards]

THlgU-8dMYg
Woven Hand is the number 1 friend on that Josh Garrels dudes site. And yeah I've heard great things, same dude though, right?

And I'm really really digging Josh Garrels.

[xJesusFreakx]

Hahaha. I'm stoked, I'm going into this final with a 99% in the class, so I don't want to bomb this. I can't remember the last time I got a legit A in a legit class. Also I should mention that the word legit in college drives me insane and I used it early today and I'm not letting myself live it down.

Dude, but "legit" is such a legit word.

[Regards]

Dude, but "legit" is such a legit word.
I hate you. But not really. If you haven't check out this Josh Garrels dude, I think you'll love him if you haven't listened to him. It's like a christian Beck.

[xJesusFreakx]

I hate you. But not really. If you haven't check out this Josh Garrels dude, I think you'll love him if you haven't listened to him. It's like a christian Beck.

That sounds pretty sweet and legit. I'll have to give him a listen when I'm not too tired to really appreciate new music.

[bluecrunchy]

Is it just me, or has Facedown Records become the new Tooth and Nail/Solid State?

(This isn't a bad thing)

[awakeohsleeper]

Is it just me, or has Facedown Records become the new Tooth and Nail/Solid State?

(This isn't a bad thing)

In some ways, yes. There have definitely been more Facedown releases that I've enjoyed than T&N/SS. T&N seems so watered down at the moment.

My favourite label is definitely Come&Live! right now. Chad Johnson is doing some amazing, inspiring stuff. Great to witness.

[bluecrunchy]

In some ways, yes. There have definitely been more Facedown releases that I've enjoyed than T&N/SS. T&N seems so watered down at the moment.

My favourite label is definitely Come&Live! right now. Chad Johnson is doing some amazing, inspiring stuff. Great to witness.

I've only heard a few of their bands, but I love what the label is about.The Ember Days is really good.

[Regards]

That sounds pretty sweet and legit. I'll have to give him a listen when I'm not too tired to really appreciate new music.
Ha. Yeah, good call. Definitely GOOD. And I'm ending with that. Yeah, no other adjectives. My mind is melting from this review.
Is it just me, or has Facedown Records become the new Tooth and Nail/Solid State?

(This isn't a bad thing)
I've been super impressed with a lot of Facedows bands they've recently been signing. A lot of my favorite bands are coming from that label(Hands, Sleeping Giant, Take It Back)

[awakeohsleeper]

I've only heard a few of their bands, but I love what the label is about.The Ember Days is really good.

I really like Daniel Bashta and Ascend the Hill. Check them out if you like The Ember Days. They are in the same vein of worship sounding music. I think they're available for free if you are short of money.

[bluecrunchy]

I really like Daniel Bashta and Ascend the Hill. Check them out if you like The Ember Days. They are in the same vein of worship sounding music. I think they're available for free if you are short of money.

Thanks for the recs! There are a lot of really good bands on this label. Who knew Dallas Taylor had a post-rock side project?

[HometownHero]

Christian music that is preachy is obnoxious and stupid. I like bands with Christians in them. But they dont shove a message in your face. They just make music. Preachy bands make me want to hate Christians all together

[Regards]

Thanks for the recs! There are a lot of really good bands on this label. Who knew Dallas Taylor had a post-rock side project?
Dallas Taylor has a post-rock side project? What?

[Regards]

Christian music that is preachy is obnoxious and stupid. I like bands with Christians in them. But they dont shove a message in your face. They just make music. Preachy bands make me want to hate Christians all together
Sorry that you feel that way. If you thought you had the truth behind the existence of the Earth, and the salvation and purpose behind your life you'd want to share it too, right?

[HometownHero]

Sorry that you feel that way. If you thought you had the truth behind the existence of the Earth, and the salvation and purpose behind your life you'd want to share it too, right?
So by that logic people that believe in evolution should be singing about that? You can spread a positive message without praising the Lord in your lyrics and between songs. That is where you alienate fans. Thats why Relient K is good to me. None of that shit. Just great music

[Regards]

So by that logic people that believe in evolution should be singing about that? You can spread a positive message without praising the Lord in your lyrics and between songs. That is where you alienate fans. Thats why Relient K is good to me. None of that shit. Just great music
Evolution is a purpose behind life? Evolution is salvation? You related two things there were not even close to being the same. And believe it or not, there are Christians who believe in evolution. This isn't the place for this kind of debate though, you'd be better served in the politics thread if you want to stir up trouble.

[bluecrunchy]

Dallas Taylor has a post-rock side project? What?

http://www.myspace.com/theeverett

Apparently they put out an EP about 2 years ago. Good stuff.

[Regards]

Family Force 5's new Xmas album is pretty christ-o-riffic
They have an Christmas album? Haha, wow. Their first album is a definite guilty pleasure of mine, and they put on a great show, but they lost all credibility when they went the whole CRUUNKKK route.

[HometownHero]

Evolution is a purpose behind life? Evolution is salvation? You related two things there were not even close to being the same. And believe it or not, there are Christians who believe in evolution. This isn't the place for this kind of debate though, you'd be better served in the politics thread if you want to stir up trouble.
The purpose behind life is this: Live it. That's it. And that is not what I came in this thread to discuss. I just find preachy music to be a ridiculous platform. Hence why the "Christian/Gospel" section in my work place is so small. Its a joke. But some great Christians make great music. See: Sufjan Stevens. Dude makes great music but in no way is he shoving Jesus down my throat. If you open a show with a prayer you deserve to be punched

[Regards]

http://www.myspace.com/theeverett

Apparently they put out an EP about 2 years ago. Good stuff.
Hahahaha, they gave a shout out to Matt! (alice+interiors). That's amazing. I'm listening now and enjoying what I hear. What an interesting project coming from him.

[HometownHero]

Family Force 5's new Xmas album is pretty christ-o-riffic
I called something "Christ-O-Riffic" in conversation the other day. I had no idea where I had heard that before. Seeing you post it again reminds me. And I must thank you. It got many laughs

[Regards]

The purpose behind life is this: Live it. That's it. And that is not what I came in this thread to discuss. I just find preachy music to be a ridiculous platform. Hence why the "Christian/Gospel" section in my work place is so small. Its a joke. But some great Christians make great music. See: Sufjan Stevens. Dude makes great music but in no way is he shoving Jesus down my throat. If you open a show with a prayer you deserve to be punched
I opened every single one of my shows with a prayer with my band, and I'll continue in any musical endeavor to do the same. You're quick to get angry at people shoving their views down your throat, but you're pretty quick to throw yours right back at them. Hmm.

[HometownHero]

I opened every single one of my shows with a prayer with my band, and I'll continue in any musical endeavor to do the same. You're quick to get angry at people shoving their views down your throat, but you're pretty quick to throw yours right back at them. Hmm.
You asked the crowd to join you in prayer? Or you prayed with your band. If you want to pray with your fellow Christian band members then sure whatever. But if you do it on stage you are a prick cause you are alienating those who dont believe the same

[Regards]

You asked the crowd to join you in prayer? Or you prayed with your band. If you want to pray with your fellow Christian band members then sure whatever. But if you do it on stage you are a prick cause you are alienating those who dont believe the same
Nah, I ask everyone to place their arms on their brother or sister around them and politely bow their heads, and I tell them that if they don't believe in it, its totally cool, but just do it out of respect for your brother/sisters around you.

And that's fine if you want to call me what you want to call me, I have a ton of atheist/agnostic friends who frequented our shows and absolutely loved that we did that.

This isn't what this thread is for though, and if you want to cuss me out or yell at me or whatever you can PM me.

[Smeee]

A+ thread. Thousand Foot Krutch, Switchfoot and 12 Stones got me into Christian music. Those were the days...

[Jaimehere]

i have a large part of my music to be Christian, from metal, hardcore and pop punk and all the other sub-genres of these 3, it just feels good to rock out and chill while letting the music be the instrument for your worship to God and love for your fellow brothers and life ;-)

[batmannj]

I don't think I can rename it unless I delete it. Ah well. I knew you'd like the jf reference. I was just jamming to Church music and thought this might have some potential. More than the idea of the Politics thread :-p.

Anyways I think a good started would be everyone's top 5 of all time/top 5 of the year. Either or work. I'll post mine after I study for this environment final a little more.

I can't give you a solid top five because I haven't really worked on how it would be ordered, but my favorite Christian releases this year for me are:

As Cities Burn
August Burns Red
Bradley Hathaway
Burden Of A Day
The Chariot
Corpus Christi
David Crowder Band
For Today
Hands
mewithoutYou (I know this is viewed as a disappointment by some, but I love the lyrics of this record.)
If MuteMath counts them too.
Oh, Sleeper
Project 86
Relient K
Showbread
Sleeping Giant
I wish I could end it with Zao, but I just can't.

The ones I highlighted are the ones that I enjoy more than the rest. It's been a good year for Christian music.

[batmannj]

Family Force 5's new Xmas album is pretty christ-o-riffic

I'll probably check that record out in a month or two. Christmas songs in October is faaaaaar too early for me haha.

[awakeohsleeper]

I can't give you a solid top five because I haven't really worked on how it would be ordered, but my favorite Christian releases this year for me are:

As Cities Burn
August Burns Red
Bradley Hathaway
Burden Of A Day
The Chariot
Corpus Christi
David Crowder Band
For Today
Hands
mewithoutYou (I know this is viewed as a disappointment by some, but I love the lyrics of this record.)
If MuteMath counts them too.
Oh, Sleeper
Project 86
Relient K
Showbread
Sleeping Giant
I wish I could end it with Zao, but I just can't.

The ones I highlighted are the ones that I enjoy more than the rest. It's been a good year for Christian music.

From that list I loved As Cities Burn, Hands, Oh Sleeper, Bradley Hathaway, Showbread, mewithoutYou and Sleeping Giant. I've pre-ordered Relient K but it's not arrived in the UK yet. I'd probably add Ascend the Hill, Daniel Bashta, Holding Onto Hope and The Ember Days to that. And The Glorious Unseen.

[Jaimehere]

i'm curious as to what The Almost's sophomore album will sound like, hopefully it's gonna surpass their debut

[xJesusFreakx]

A+ thread. Thousand Foot Krutch, Switchfoot and 12 Stones got me into Christian music. Those were the days...

12 Stones was my jam back in the day. I saw them when they toured with Skillet and Pillar... Great show for the me back then.

i'm curious as to what The Almost's sophomore album will sound like, hopefully it's gonna surpass their debut

I can only enjoy a few songs from the first one. This one looks to be a step up (likely because it's a full band's effort), but I don't like Aaron's vocals very much anymore, so we'll see if I end up checking it out or not.

[Jennurna Gray]

Its the message that counts, not how they label themselves, or how others label the band.
Flyleaf?

[CS Lewis]

There's a difference between Christian bands and a band made up of Christians. I prefer the latter, by far. I think "Christian" music serves its purpose as far as lyrical content that is shaped to glorify God with glorious lyrics. Bands made up of Christians, however, who aren't necessarily Christian bands, express their art I think in a more honest sense which I prefer. They talk about Jesus just as much as he is in their present day-to-day life and address topics that most realistic Christians, the ones I know, struggle with. Doubt would be a good example. Anger with God would be a good example. Shame of sin, but indulging anyway. Brutal truths.

I'm pretty sure Aaron Weis and Andy Hull are Christians, and even more so positive that Dustin Kensure is. I'm a little less convinced about Jesse Lacey. And from what I gather it's a known fact that the guys from Anberlin, Mae, Underoath, and Relient K are all Christians. I guess in general, Christians put out the a lot of the best music out there.

[Jaimehere]

There's a difference between Christian bands and a band made up of Christians. I prefer the latter, by far. I think "Christian" music serves its purpose as far as lyrical content that is shaped to glorify God with glorious lyrics. Bands made up of Christians, however, who aren't necessarily Christian bands, express their art I think in a more honest sense which I prefer. They talk about Jesus just as much as he is in their present day-to-day life and address topics that most realistic Christians, the ones I know, struggle with. Doubt would be a good example. Anger with God would be a good example. Shame of sin, but indulging anyway. Brutal truths.

I'm pretty sure Aaron Weis and Andy Hull are Christians, and even more so positive that Dustin Kensure is. I'm a little less convinced about Jesse Lacey. And from what I gather it's a known fact that the guys from Anberlin, Mae, Underoath, and Relient K are all Christians. I guess in general, Christians put out the a lot of the best music out there.

yeah i agree, i don't like a band when what they only say is "hey pray and worship the lord or else" kind of shit, i much rather have a band that incorporates what they experience in real life and compliment it in accordance with their faith, not everyday does someone love God, some days you feel as if He's not there, and some of the songs from this bands reflect that and other topics which are all great.

[Regards]

Flyleaf?
What about them? Last I checked they were very Christian. Christian enough to have David Crowder do a cover of one of their songs :shrug:

[inthemidst]

Church Music is in my top ten for this year so far. Definitely the best D*CB album ever released. Yes, even better than A Collision.

[inthemidst]

From that list I loved As Cities Burn, Hands, Oh Sleeper, Bradley Hathaway, Showbread, mewithoutYou and Sleeping Giant. I've pre-ordered Relient K but it's not arrived in the UK yet. I'd probably add Ascend the Hill, Daniel Bashta, Holding Onto Hope and The Ember Days to that. And The Glorious Unseen.

Good call on all of the additions, my friend.

Let me also throw in my suggestion to any band on the label Come&Live! Records. If you haven't read the interview of the label head, I definitely recommend you to check it out:

http://www.absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?t=1350631

[Jennurna Gray]

What about them? Last I checked they were very Christian. Christian enough to have David Crowder do a cover of one of their songs :shrug:
They're basically the only Christian band that i listen to, but wouldn't mind listening to a few more. That's what caught my eye about this forum, I'm hoping i'll find a recommendation or two. :]

[inthemidst]

Here's a better link for the above label:

http://www.absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?p=54756881#post54756 881

[awakeohsleeper]

Here's a better link for the above label:

http://www.absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?p=54756881#post54756 881

Chad is such an inspiration.

[inthemidst]

Chad is such an inspiration.

I know, right? Without even thinking about it, I've been telling everyone about this label. It'd be different if the bands weren't so freaking talented. I mean, look at the lineup: Ascend the Hill, The Ember Days, Holding Onto Hope, So Long Forgotten, Lovelite, The Great Awakening, Ian McIntosh, and others. It's a great label, man, and he's doing some incredible things.

[awakeohsleeper]

I know, right? Without even thinking about it, I've been telling everyone about this label. It'd be different if the bands weren't so freaking talented. I mean, look at the lineup: Ascend the Hill, The Ember Days, Holding Onto Hope, So Long Forgotten, Lovelite, The Great Awakening, Ian McIntosh, and others. It's a great label, man, and he's doing some incredible things.

I've not heard much of The Great Awakening other than the sampler. I forgot about So Long Forgotten in my post earlier. I love that record. Lyrically amazing.

They're definitely blessed us with talented bands. Brilliant.

[inthemidst]

I've not heard much of The Great Awakening other than the sampler. I forgot about So Long Forgotten in my post earlier. I love that record. Lyrically amazing.

They're definitely blessed us with talented bands. Brilliant.

Yes, definitely. I forgot Daniel Bashta. I've listened to that record everyday since I got it over a month ago. Truly amazing.

[awakeohsleeper]

Yes, definitely. I forgot Daniel Bashta. I've listened to that record everyday since I got it over a month ago. Truly amazing.

Especially the last track. Love that. I find it quite prophetic for what's going on where I live at the moment. Dry bones dancing. Been trying to learn it on the guitar. It's pretty simply.

[inthemidst]

Especially the last track. Love that. I find it quite prophetic for what's going on where I live at the moment. Dry bones dancing. Been trying to learn it on the guitar. It's pretty simply.

Which song is that? I have all of the songs, but I think they're out of order..

[KingsCrossing]

Not sure if they were posted here yet, but check out Sent By Ravens ----> http://www.myspace.com/sentbyravens.

They're the newest addition to Tooth and Nail's roster.

[awakeohsleeper]

Which song is that? I have all of the songs, but I think they're out of order..

Awakening.

[inthemidst]

Awakening.

Oh yeah! That's an amazing song. You should check his Myspace if you haven't. He posted a video of him leading worship on the roof of a Buddhist temple in an Asian country. It's awesome! He's playing "Awakening" in the video.

I think I may use "Potter's Wheel" for the next time I lead worship at my church. Not sure yet, though. I have to clear it with our director to make sure it's "theologically correct". Also a great song that truly hits me.

[batmannj]

From that list I loved As Cities Burn, Hands, Oh Sleeper, Bradley Hathaway, Showbread, mewithoutYou and Sleeping Giant. I've pre-ordered Relient K but it's not arrived in the UK yet. I'd probably add Ascend the Hill, Daniel Bashta, Holding Onto Hope and The Ember Days to that. And The Glorious Unseen.

I totally missed Holding Onto Hope. I love that release they put out this year.

[CarouselBoy]

You asked the crowd to join you in prayer? Or you prayed with your band. If you want to pray with your fellow Christian band members then sure whatever. But if you do it on stage you are a prick cause you are alienating those who dont believe the same

You seem to assume that a band's message/lyrics/music have the goal of including everyone, of being accessible to everyone. You seem to think that you deserve to be appealed to. A band sings about something they truly believe in, something they care about, without being hateful and there's something wrong with that because it alienates you? Your whole premise for why a band shouldn't be "preachy" sounds pretty selfish and narrow to me. Just sayin

[HometownHero]

You seem to assume that a band's message/lyrics/music have the goal of including everyone, of being accessible to everyone. You seem to think that you deserve to be appealed to. A band sings about something they truly believe in, something they care about, without being hateful and there's something wrong with that because it alienates you? Your whole premise for why a band shouldn't be "preachy" sounds pretty selfish and narrow to me. Just sayin
You can spread your message just fine without "OH PRAISE GOD!!!!" in between songs. You don't need to have prayers. You can talk about your beliefs in your songs. That is your choice. I am listening to The Almost right now. Dude definitely praises God in his music. I'm fine with that. But when you ask the crowd to pray with you its disrespectful to those who would not feel comfortable participating.

[ninthandash]

Phil Wickham is hands down the best Christian artist right now, and nobody can make me change my mind.

[pleasedontpanic]

Every needs to check out Jesus Culture's new album "Consumed". So good.

And check this out: http://mudpuppy.wordpress.com/2008/05/04/mute-math-worship-cd/

Mute Math worship album?

[jwicklun]

I like five iron frenzy and thats about it

[s.t.e.v.e.n.]

Daniel Bashta is great. Love what he's doing. Anyone like Robbie Seay Band?

[Breathoffire]

I drink whiskey and smoke pot while listening to cap 'n jazz's "little league". Does that mke me christian?

[pleasedontpanic]

Daniel Bashta is great. Love what he's doing. Anyone like Robbie Seay Band?

Daniel Bashta is rad. Everything coming out of Come&Live! is amazing. And I'm a huge RSB band.

[Circa1628]

Regards >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> KidChino08

[Brand-new-123]

Blindside has a new album coming out early next year. I'm excited for that.

This Year:
1.The Earth and Everything In It - The Healer's Hands, The Beggars Palms
2.As Cities Burn - Hell or High Water
3.mewithout You - It's All Crazy, It's All False, It's All a Dream, It's Alright
4.Hands - Creator
5.So Long Forgotten - Things We Can See and Things We Cannot
6.Oh, Sleeper - Son of the Morning
7.Bradley Hathaway - Mouthful of Dust
8.The Glorious Unseen - Hope That Lies in You
9. Sleeping at Last - Storyboards
10. Relient K - Forget and Not Slow Down

And I'm not even going to attempt an all time list because it would be too difficult to narrow down and I'm afraid I'd be embarrassed by the presence of some of the 90's CCM I used to devour as a child.

EDIT: I still haven't had the chance to check out the new Showbread, David Crowder, Derek Webb and some others.

[Impress]

why has no one mentioned ADVENT?

Their new c.d. is amazing and you should probably check it

[Juliet!!]

I love Relient K.

:-d

[KoolAidMatt]

i'm curious as to what The Almost's sophomore album will sound like, hopefully it's gonna surpass their debut

I hope so too I kinda forced myself to listen to their debut just because I love Underoath and I did like a few songs but not really the album as a whole.

[Regards]

I drink whiskey and smoke pot while listening to cap 'n jazz's "little league". Does that mke me christian?
Nah, it makes you look like a 26 year old with a chip on his shoulder though :shrug:
Blindside has a new album coming out early next year. I'm excited for that.

This Year:
1.The Earth and Everything In It - The Healer's Hands, The Beggars Palms
2.As Cities Burn - Hell or High Water
3.mewithout You - It's All Crazy, It's All False, It's All a Dream, It's Alright
4.Hands - Creator
5.So Long Forgotten - Things We Can See and Things We Cannot
6.Oh, Sleeper - Son of the Morning
7.Bradley Hathaway - Mouthful of Dust
8.The Glorious Unseen - Hope That Lies in You
9. Sleeping at Last - Storyboards
10. Relient K - Forget and Not Slow Down

And I'm not even going to attempt an all time list because it would be too difficult to narrow down and I'm afraid I'd be embarrassed by the presence of some of the 90's CCM I used to devour as a child.

EDIT: I still haven't had the chance to check out the new Showbread, David Crowder, Derek Webb and some others.
David Crowder is amazing. Definitely check it out as soon as possible. That's a solid list by the way. I've never heard of The Eart and Everything In It, RILY?
why has no one mentioned ADVENT?

Their new c.d. is amazing and you should probably check it
Love Advent! I haven't checked out their new album, but Blackout is a jam.

[Brand-new-123]

David Crowder is amazing. Definitely check it out as soon as possible. That's a solid list by the way. I've never heard of The Eart and Everything In It, RILY?


Yeah, I'll probably check out the new DCB this weekend when I go home.

For the earth and everything in it, Whenever I listen to them I think of older mewithoutYou, Life in Your Way, and Explosions in the Sky type stuff. www.myspace.com/theearthandeverythinginit They have one of the coolest shows which is unfortunate because they live in Minot North Dakota and never tour anywhere relatively close to me, so I have to wait until Cornerstone to see them.

[Regards]

Yeah, I'll probably check out the new DCB this weekend when I go home.

For the earth and everything in it, Whenever I listen to them I think of older mewithoutYou, Life in Your Way, and Explosions in the Sky type stuff. www.myspace.com/theearthandeverythinginit They have one of the coolest shows which is unfortunate because they live in Minot North Dakota and never tour anywhere relatively close to me, so I have to wait until Cornerstone to see them.
That sounds like an amazing mixture. I'm going to check them out.

[Brand-new-123]

That sounds like an amazing mixture. I'm going to check them out.
Yeah I really really like them, and they have all their t-shirts and the on sale cheap right now.

[Regards]

Yeah I really really like them, and they have all their t-shirts and the on sale cheap right now.
Dang. Really really enjoying these dudes. There have been some phenomenal rec's so far in this thread. Was that album released this year?

[Regards]

Crap... You misspelled "official." This kind of thread will get enough ridicule with that, lol; might want to fix it.

I wholeheartedly support this thread's premise, though, particularly, the Jesus Freak reference. ;-)
Somebody changed official hahaha.

[Brand-new-123]

Dang. Really really enjoying these dudes. There have been some phenomenal rec's so far in this thread. Was that album released this year?
Yeah I think it was released in late January/February but I don't remember the exact date.

EDIT: It was released I think around February 10th.

[Regards]

Yeah I think it was released in late January/February but I don't remember the exact date.

EDIT: It was released I think around February 10th.
I just d/l'd it, I think I'm going to order it anyways, but if the rest of the album is like the first song on myspace, then this might invade my top albums list.

[Brand-new-123]

I just d/l'd it, I think I'm going to order it anyways, but if the rest of the album is like the first song on myspace, then this might invade my top albums list.
Yeah definitely order it. They drew pictures of turtles and wrote little jokes all over the shipping envelope with crayons which is super cool in my opinion. I'd post a picture if I had it with me.

[Regards]

Yeah definitely order it. They drew pictures of turtles and wrote little jokes all over the shipping envelope with crayons which is super cool in my opinion. I'd post a picture if I had it with me.
Hahah! Seriously? You have to post a picture the next time you're available to. I'm totally ordering it then. For 3 dollars why not? So good. Seriously though, get on Church Music its an amazing album.

[Brand-new-123]

Hahah! Seriously? You have to post a picture the next time you're available to. I'm totally ordering it then. For 3 dollars why not? So good. Seriously though, get on Church Music its an amazing album.
Haha alright. I plan on it sometime between tomorrow night and sunday afternoon. It has to be better than Remedy right?

[Dunn.Nope]

Phil Wickham is hands down the best Christian artist right now, and nobody can make me change my mind.
he played at our school for 2 nights. 1 night of straight worship and 1 of playing his own songs. it was incredible

[Regards]

Haha alright. I plan on it sometime between tomorrow night and sunday afternoon. It has to be better than Remedy right?
From what I heard about Remedy I never checked it out. All I know is that it rivals A Collision and Illuminate. Fo realz.

[ninthandash]

he played at our school for 2 nights. 1 night of straight worship and 1 of playing his own songs. it was incredible



That's amazing. I've been trying to get him to come to my college. I almost assumed you lived on the West Coast, since he's from there, but that's really cool haha.

Singalong is the perfect worship album.

[threethreethree]

God doesn't exist.

[Regards]

God doesn't exist.
Quality post. Great discussion. Hope you post around here more often.

[xJesusFreakx]

Somebody changed official hahaha.

My, how polite of whoever it was. I'd like to thank him/her for doing so if I knew his/her identity.

[awakeohsleeper]

Blindside has a new album coming out early next year. I'm excited for that.

This Year:
1.The Earth and Everything In It - The Healer's Hands, The Beggars Palms
2.As Cities Burn - Hell or High Water
3.mewithout You - It's All Crazy, It's All False, It's All a Dream, It's Alright
4.Hands - Creator
5.So Long Forgotten - Things We Can See and Things We Cannot
6.Oh, Sleeper - Son of the Morning
7.Bradley Hathaway - Mouthful of Dust
8.The Glorious Unseen - Hope That Lies in You
9. Sleeping at Last - Storyboards
10. Relient K - Forget and Not Slow Down

And I'm not even going to attempt an all time list because it would be too difficult to narrow down and I'm afraid I'd be embarrassed by the presence of some of the 90's CCM I used to devour as a child.

EDIT: I still haven't had the chance to check out the new Showbread, David Crowder, Derek Webb and some others.

I absolutely cannot wait for that new Blindside record.
Showbread's CD is pretty brilliant. I really like it.
The only band I'd not heard of in your list is 'The Earth and Everything In It'. Checked them out on Myspace and they seemed pretty decent but the sound quality wasn't great.

[Regards]

I absolutely cannot wait for that new Blindside record.
Showbread's CD is pretty brilliant. I really like it.
The only band I'd not heard of in your list is 'The Earth and Everything In It'. Checked them out on Myspace and they seemed pretty decent but the sound quality wasn't great.
I still haven't checked out Showbread's latest, is it worth checking out?

I was totally getting all nostalgic and jamming out About A Burning Fire yesterday. It was a good time.

[xJesusFreakx]

I still haven't checked out Showbread's latest, is it worth checking out?

I was totally getting all nostalgic and jamming out About A Burning Fire yesterday. It was a good time.

It's their best since No Sir and has some really good jams on it, but it also sounds a lot like a rehashing of previous material. If that won't be too distracting to enjoy the highlights, check it out.

Silence is my favorite Blindside album, but I also really like The Great Depression and don't understand why it gets so much hate. It has a lot of filler, but the overall sound and best moments were the band at their best. Hopefully the new album continues in the vein of that album and/or The Black Rose EP.

[awakeohsleeper]

It's their best since No Sir and has some really good jams on it, but it also sounds a lot like a rehashing of previous material. If that won't be too distracting to enjoy the highlights, check it out.

Silence is my favorite Blindside album, but I also really like The Great Depression and don't understand why it gets so much hate. It has a lot of filler, but the overall sound and best moments were the band at their best. Hopefully the new album continues in the vein of that album and/or The Black Rose EP.

The Great Depression is a favourite of mine. Which tracks do you consider filler? There are only a few tracks I don't like. In fact, When I Remember is probably one of my favourite songs ever but I always forget about it. To be honest, I cannot see this new album being bad. I hope I'm not being too optimistic.

I still haven't checked out Showbread's latest, is it worth checking out?

I was totally getting all nostalgic and jamming out About A Burning Fire yesterday. It was a good time.

I love it. Definitely think the slower songs are pretty amazing. If you like any of the other albums I'd recommend getting it because it is almost an amalgamation of all the styles they've delved into over the years. Lyrically I love the record too. There are only a few people that can match Showbread lyrically when they're on form in my opinion.

[Brand-new-123]

I absolutely cannot wait for that new Blindside record.
Showbread's CD is pretty brilliant. I really like it.
The only band I'd not heard of in your list is 'The Earth and Everything In It'. Checked them out on Myspace and they seemed pretty decent but the sound quality wasn't great.
Yeah they're a complete DIY band and I can sacrifice some pristine production quality because of the music and lyrics.

[awakeohsleeper]

Yeah they're a complete DIY band and I can sacrifice some pristine production quality because of the music and lyrics.

Awesome. I've added them on Myspace so I'll give them a proper listen later. I obviously need to pay a bit more attention. If the lyrics are good, that's all that primarily matters to me.

[Regards]

It's their best since No Sir and has some really good jams on it, but it also sounds a lot like a rehashing of previous material. If that won't be too distracting to enjoy the highlights, check it out.

Silence is my favorite Blindside album, but I also really like The Great Depression and don't understand why it gets so much hate. It has a lot of filler, but the overall sound and best moments were the band at their best. Hopefully the new album continues in the vein of that album and/or The Black Rose EP.
That sounds actually pretty sweet. Will check out.

I haven't listened to Silence, but I really enjoy The Great Depression as well. Any news on when the new album is slated to come out?
The Great Depression is a favourite of mine. Which tracks do you consider filler? There are only a few tracks I don't like. In fact, When I Remember is probably one of my favourite songs ever but I always forget about it. To be honest, I cannot see this new album being bad. I hope I'm not being too optimistic.



I love it. Definitely think the slower songs are pretty amazing. If you like any of the other albums I'd recommend getting it because it is almost an amalgamation of all the styles they've delved into over the years. Lyrically I love the record too. There are only a few people that can match Showbread lyrically when they're on form in my opinion.
Yeah, All Of Us is one of my favorite song ever from Blindside. Great jam. And I agree Josh Has some great lyrics. Definitely underrated. Have you ever listened to his solo project? I would really like to get the album, I've only heard the songs on his myspace, but they're good.

[xJesusFreakx]

That sounds actually pretty sweet. Will check out.

I haven't listened to Silence, but I really enjoy The Great Depression as well. Any news on when the new album is slated to come out?

Early next year, I think. Oh, and... How have you not listened to Silence? "Sleepwalking"? "Pitiful"? Honestly... I'm disappointed in you. It's like About a Burning Fire, except better.

[Regards]

Early next year, I think. Oh, and... How have you not listened to Silence? "Sleepwalking"? "Pitiful"? Honestly... I'm disappointed in you. It's like About a Burning Fire, except better.
Yeah yeah, I know. I've gotten it from a lot of people. I wasn't really introduced into the Christian music scene til about 5 years ago, so I had a lot of making up to do. I'll definitely check it out though, i've heard good things. I heard their self titled was the best though.

[xJesusFreakx]

Yeah yeah, I know. I've gotten it from a lot of people. I wasn't really introduced into the Christian music scene til about 5 years ago, so I had a lot of making up to do. I'll definitely check it out though, i've heard good things. I heard their self titled was the best though.

Ew, from who? It has some great songs and a cool sound, but I've never heard someone deem it their best. I could see an argument for A Though Crushed My Mind, but not their self-titled, lol. "Invert" is a sweet jam, though.

(I feel like I call songs "sweet jams" way tool much.)

[iloveblink182]

1. Eleventyseven - Adventures In Eville
2. Anberlin - New Surrender
3. Emery - The Question
4. MxPx - The Ever Passing Moment
5. Hawk Nelson - Letters To The President

[awakeohsleeper]

Yeah, All Of Us is one of my favorite song ever from Blindside. Great jam. And I agree Josh Has some great lyrics. Definitely underrated. Have you ever listened to his solo project? I would really like to get the album, I've only heard the songs on his myspace, but they're good.

I've only heard the Myspace songs too. I've never had any money when he's pressed copies.

[Regards]

Ew, from who? It has some great songs and a cool sound, but I've never heard someone deem it their best. I could see an argument for A Though Crushed My Mind, but not their self-titled, lol. "Invert" is a sweet jam, though.

(I feel like I call songs "sweet jams" way tool much.)
I can't remember who told me that, maybe I was thinking A Thought Crushed My Mind. Yeah, I need to check out some old Blindside though, I've heard amazing things.
1. Eleventyseven - Adventures In Eville
2. Anberlin - New Surrender
3. Emery - The Question
4. MxPx - The Ever Passing Moment
5. Hawk Nelson - Letters To The President
I enjoy Way Of The Buffalo more from MXPX, and Weak's End from Emery, but those were both solid releases by the bands.
I've only heard the Myspace songs too. I've never had any money when he's pressed copies.
Yeah, I'd like to download a copy just to hear the whole thing. Maybe order it online. I wouldn't mind reading his book either.

[Brand-new-123]

I can't remember who told me that, maybe I was thinking A Thought Crushed My Mind. Yeah, I need to check out some old Blindside though, I've heard amazing things.

I enjoy Way Of The Buffalo more from MXPX, and Weak's End from Emery, but those were both solid releases by the bands.

Yeah, I'd like to download a copy just to hear the whole thing. Maybe order it online. I wouldn't mind reading his book either.
His book is really entertaining and very easy to read. The only problem I had was a couple typos but that was probably because it is mostly self published. He has a new book coming out in november called Nevada. (see avatar)

[awakeohsleeper]

His book is really entertaining and very easy to read. The only problem I had was a couple typos but that was probably because it is mostly self published. He has a new book coming out in november called Nevada. (see avatar)

Yeah, I'd like to download a copy just to hear the whole thing. Maybe order it online. I wouldn't mind reading his book either.

My ex-girlfriend bought me the book for my birthday. It's pretty amazing. I haven't seen any typos - think it's a later edition. I'd recommend it though.

[xXxXx]

Satyricon
Dimmu Borgir

Check em out.

[Jaimehere]

Satyricon
Dimmu Borgir

Check em out.

Black MetalzZZ! < Antestor=Christian Black Metal, awesome

[theguy77]

sufjan stevens wins this thread.

[xJesusFreakx]

I can't remember who told me that, maybe I was thinking A Thought Crushed My Mind. Yeah, I need to check out some old Blindside though, I've heard amazing things.

I enjoy Way Of The Buffalo more from MXPX, and Weak's End from Emery, but those were both solid releases by the bands.

Yeah, I'd like to download a copy just to hear the whole thing. Maybe order it online. I wouldn't mind reading his book either.

This may or may not be related to the post I'm quoting, but what are the good recommendations that have come up in this thread that I should check out? I'm far too lazy to check myself.

[Regards]

Satyricon
Dimmu Borgir

Check em out.
Yeah, this is the internet. Most people know them. Cool though. Listen to Hands.
sufjan stevens wins this thread.
Jammin Sufjan a lot this week actually. I haven't listened to anything outside of Illinoise, but I've got some of His other stuff waiting for me to listen to.
This may or may not be related to the post I'm quoting, but what are the good recommendations that have come up in this thread that I should check out? I'm far too lazy to check myself.
Josh Garrels (http://www.myspace.com/joshgarrels) has by far been my favorite so far. Also The Earth And Everything In It (http://www.myspace.com/theearthandeverythinginit) was also amazing. Both very very good.

[eriatarka24]

1. Eleventyseven - Adventures In Eville
2. Anberlin - New Surrender
3. Emery - The Question
4. MxPx - The Ever Passing Moment
5. Hawk Nelson - Letters To The President


yes.

and

all three albums by As Cities Burn :p

and I love Cities by Anberlin too.

[Regards]

Come Now, Sleep was hands down the best album As Cities Burn ever did. I wish I could re-live the day I first listened to that album.

[Brand-new-123]

Come Now Sleep may be my favorite album ever. I still listen to it several times a week.

[theguy77]

Jammin Sufjan a lot this week actually. I haven't listened to anything outside of Illinoise, but I've got some of His other stuff waiting for me to listen to.

seven swans is more intimate and more focused on faith actually, so if you're looking for good christian music look no further than some other parts of his discography.

[xJesusFreakx]

Come Now, Sleep was hands down the best album As Cities Burn ever did. I wish I could re-live the day I first listened to that album.

I actually didn't care much for it at first. I was just a casual listener, and I had streamed the album on MySpace and didn't love it, but for some reason I decided to buy it anyways. Listening to the album from start to finish with the lyrics and artwork helped me to fall in love (especially with "Clouds"), but I use to (perhaps still now) randomly fall in love and then stop caring for a while. It took a year for everything to fall perfectly into place for me.

[Regards]

Come Now Sleep may be my favorite album ever. I still listen to it several times a week.
Yeah, I pretty consistently go back to it as well. It combines so much of what I love in music.

[Regards]

seven swans is more intimate and more focused on faith actually, so if you're looking for good christian music look no further than some other parts of his discography.
That's exactly what I have waiting, and its actually because of a facebook status of yours earlier this week:-p
I actually didn't care much for it at first. I was just a casual listener, and I had streamed the album on MySpace and didn't love it, but for some reason I decided to buy it anyways. Listening to the album from start to finish with the lyrics and artwork helped me to fall in love (especially with "Clouds"), but I use to (perhaps still now) randomly fall in love and then stop caring for a while. It took a year for everything to fall perfectly into place for me.
I could see how it would be like that in light of how Son, I Loved You was like. It was such a depature, but at the same time not, from what they were known for that I could be seen as "great, another band 'maturing' in sound" and just kind of looked over. Not saying that's how it was for you, but I could totally see that.

[xJesusFreakx]

I could see how it would be like that in light of how Son, I Loved You was like. It was such a depature, but at the same time not, from what they were known for that I could be seen as "great, another band 'maturing' in sound" and just kind of looked over. Not saying that's how it was for you, but I could totally see that.

Yeah, and such I was only a casual fan of SILYAYD (which didn't fully click for me until after CNS had), that made me that much less willing to give it another shot. I'm still not sure why I ended up buying it, lol, but I'm glad I did.

[theguy77]

That's exactly what I have waiting, and its actually because of a facebook status of yours earlier this week:-p

you're welcome. i thought is hould tell you in advance.

[Brand-new-123]

Hahah! Seriously? You have to post a picture the next time you're available to. I'm totally ordering it then. For 3 dollars why not? So good. Seriously though, get on Church Music its an amazing album.
I just found the envelope:
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs276.snc1/10324_1267382963717_1204080030_3079 0457_3289872_n.jpg

Front

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs256.snc1/10324_1267383163722_1204080030_3079 0458_5422315_n.jpg

back

You may notice the Jim Croce reference on the front and the fact that the back says "Merry Christmas" and the postmark is for January 26th. Needless to say, when this arrived I quite literally lol'd.

[awakeohsleeper]

My favourite As Cities Burn song is 'Wrong Body'. It means so much to me.

[Regards]

I just found the envelope:
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs276.snc1/10324_1267382963717_1204080030_3079 0457_3289872_n.jpg

Front

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs256.snc1/10324_1267383163722_1204080030_3079 0458_5422315_n.jpg

back

You may notice the Jim Croce reference on the front and the fact that the back says "Merry Christmas" and the postmark is for January 26th. Needless to say, when this arrived I quite literally lol'd.
LOL! Hahaha. That's hilarious. Amazing.
My favourite As Cities Burn song is 'Wrong Body'. It means so much to me.
Wrong Body is definitely my favorite as well. I can't say for personal reasons, but the lyrics just hit me like a ton of bricks when I first heard it.

[Shattered Glass]

Bradley Hathaway dangggg

[Brokenhill]

So what about spiritual song/hyms? What are some of everybody's favorite A Capellas?

I really like "Soldier's of Christ, Arise", "As the Deer", "Our God, He is Alive" - among others.

[Brand-new-123]

So what about spiritual song/hyms? What are some of everybody's favorite acapellas?

I really like "Soldier's of Christ, Arise", "As the Deer", "Our God, He is Alive" - among others.
Come Thou Fount and It Is Well With My Soul

[Brokenhill]

Come Thou Fount and It Is Well With My Soul

I love "It is Well with my Soul", such great flow.

[iloveblink182]

yes.

and

all three albums by As Cities Burn :p

and I love Cities by Anberlin too.
=]

[iloveblink182]

I can't remember who told me that, maybe I was thinking A Thought Crushed My Mind. Yeah, I need to check out some old Blindside though, I've heard amazing things.

I enjoy Way Of The Buffalo more from MXPX, and Weak's End from Emery, but those were both solid releases by the bands.

Yeah, I'd like to download a copy just to hear the whole thing. Maybe order it online. I wouldn't mind reading his book either.
buffalo rools!

[Dunn.Nope]

b1bSlS6OWTs
my favorite version of this song

[awakeohsleeper]

b1bSlS6OWTs
my favorite version of this song

I love his version of 'Amazing Grace' on the Christmas albums.

BUT my favourite version of 'Amazing Grace' is by Tree63 on their live/worship album. They play an amazing song 'Look What You've Done' and transition amazingly into 'Amazing Grace'. And as it's live, it's just brilliant. One of the best album ends ever. Just pure worship. Me and my dad love listening to it in the car.

And when we went to see them they ended the set in that way. Pretty amazing.

[xJesusFreakx]

So what about spiritual song/hyms? What are some of everybody's favorite acapellas?

I really like "Soldier's of Christ, Arise", "As the Deer", "Our God, He is Alive" - among others.

"As the Deer," "Come Thou Fount," and "I'll Fly Away" are my favorites. Worship groups at a summer church camp I attend always play "I'll Fly Away" towards the end of the set, and it's always a highlight.

I love his version of 'Amazing Grace' on the Christmas albums.

BUT my favourite version of 'Amazing Grace' is by Tree63 on their live/worship album. They play an amazing song 'Look What You've Done' and transition amazingly into 'Amazing Grace'. And as it's live, it's just brilliant. One of the best album ends ever. Just pure worship. Me and my dad love listening to it in the car.

And when we went to see them they ended the set in that way. Pretty amazing.

My favorite version of "Amazing Grace" has to be "Grace Like Rain" by Todd Agnew.

[Matthew Tsai]

You can spread your message just fine without "OH PRAISE GOD!!!!" in between songs. You don't need to have prayers. You can talk about your beliefs in your songs. That is your choice. I am listening to The Almost right now. Dude definitely praises God in his music. I'm fine with that. But when you ask the crowd to pray with you its disrespectful to those who would not feel comfortable participating.

You're generally a good poster, but ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! If you don't wanna pray, you have the option not to. Nobody's saying you have to pray with them. There's nothing wrong with an artist asking the audience to pray with them. Simply back out if you don't feel comfortable.

[Dre Okorley]

Haha. I remember I went to Icthus Festival in middle school. I saw the Supertones and Five Iron Frenzy.

[fanberlinboy]

Phil Wickham is awesome.

[Regards]

How Great Thou Art is probably my favorite. I know, a little cliche'. Becoming The Archetype does an excellent version.

[xJesusFreakx]

How Great Thou Art is probably my favorite. I know, a little cliche'. Becoming The Archetype does an excellent version.

Oh, I forgot that one. Great hymn. Becoming the Archetype's version is sick, but I wish they had done more to incorporate the music of the original into the song.

[threethreethree]

Quality post. Great discussion. Hope you post around here more often.
This is not the last of my dear friend!

[Regards]

This is not the last of my dear friend!
http://absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?p=55796881#post55796 881

http://absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?t=1308642


These are probably more the threads you're looking for.

[threethreethree]

http://absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?p=55796881#post55796 881

http://absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?t=1308642


These are probably more the threads you're looking for.
EXCUSE ME, I FIND THAT QUITE OFFENSIVE.

[HometownHero]

You're generally a good poster, but ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! If you don't wanna pray, you have the option not to. Nobody's saying you have to pray with them. There's nothing wrong with an artist asking the audience to pray with them. Simply back out if you don't feel comfortable.
And be the douche that runs out on prayer time? Most venues do not have re-entry anyway. I just think its uncalled for to pray at a concert. That is not what you are there for

[xJesusFreakx]

And be the douche that runs out on prayer time? Most venues do not have re-entry anyway. I just think its uncalled for to pray at a concert. That is not what you are there for

If you can't stand even being in the same room as some people praying, there is something seriously wrong with you.

[Dunn.Nope]

http://absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?p=55796881#post55796 881

http://absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?t=1308642


These are probably more the threads you're looking for.
what is your avatar from? it looks awesome

[HometownHero]

If you can't stand even being in the same room as some people praying, there is something seriously wrong with you.
I never said that

[xJesusFreakx]

I never said that

That's pretty much what you're saying. If it's not, please explain what's different because I don't see it.

[HometownHero]

That's pretty much what you're saying. If it's not, please explain what's different because I don't see it.
I have never walked out on a band praying. Even though I have wanted too. Its just unfair to me, that they would put me in an uncomfortable situation like that. I would never renounce God on stage.

[awakeohsleeper]

How Great Thou Art is probably my favorite. I know, a little cliche'. Becoming The Archetype does an excellent version.

My dad leads a church so when that album came out I sent him a link to that and said 'you should try getting the church band to play this new version of the song'. Because it starts off slow he was getting into it. But then it kicked in and he just laughed.

[raukura]

Hey guys, im going to a festival next january and underoath will be playing. I've tried to get into this band but just can't... any suggestions with what album to start with or certain songs? thanks.

Jesus freak is one of my favourite albums ever, I remember when i was young on long car trips my Mum would play it a lot.

the everglow is also a great album, I reguarly spin this.

nice thread!

[KoolAidMatt]

Hey guys, im going to a festival next january and underoath will be playing. I've tried to get into this band but just can't... any suggestions with what album to start with or certain songs? thanks.

Jesus freak is one of my favourite albums ever, I remember when i was young on long car trips my Mum would play it a lot.

the everglow is also a great album, I reguarly spin this.

nice thread!

Do you not like heavier music?
I personally like the album 'They're Only Chasing Safety' it's their oldest with Spencer as the lead singer
they have a song called 'Some will seek forgiveness, others escape' on that album that you'll probably like

another softer song is Too bright to see, too loud to hear [from Lost in the sound of separation]

and I agree The Everglow is excellent. Do you listen to Anberlin?

[raukura]

Do you not like heavier music?
I personally like the album 'They're Only Chasing Safety' it's their oldest with Spencer as the lead singer
they have a song called 'Some will seek forgiveness, others escape' on that album that you'll probably like

another softer song is Too bright to see, too loud to hear [from Lost in the sound of separation]

and I agree The Everglow is excellent. Do you listen to Anberlin?


thanks ill check out that album

I love anberlin, probably one of my favourite bands although I didn't love New Surrender when it came out, it has slowly grown on me.

[Bruised26]

Any fans of Hillsong United? I saw them live a few weeks ago, and was so impressed. Not only was the music great, but it was a fantastic worship experience. I highly recommend them.

[Bruised26]

. I just think its uncalled for to pray at a concert. That is not what you are there for

If its a Worship concert, then I think its very appropriate to pray. But when i saw FF5 at some festival this summer, the bassist prayed at the end and I did find it a bit awkward.. but ya know, the prayer only lasts a minute or two. just hold it out...

[xJesusFreakx]

I have never walked out on a band praying. Even though I have wanted too. Its just unfair to me, that they would put me in an uncomfortable situation like that. I would never renounce God on stage.

Why is it so uncomfortable? It might be awkward being the only person who doesn't believe in that or want to join, but that should be nothing more than a minor inconvenience. Besides, don't you think it's just a little selfish for you to expect everyone else to tailor their actions and words to fit whatever makes you feel the most comfortable?

[UnderMyDreams]

Why is it so uncomfortable? It might be awkward being the only person who doesn't believe in that or want to join, but that should be nothing more than a minor inconvenience. Besides, don't you think it's just a little selfish for you to expect everyone else to tailor their actions and words to fit whatever makes you feel the most comfortable?

Bands are there to play a concert. They can pray before it, they can pray after it, they can have a prayer time with fans, etc. There's no reason to take time during the concert to pray... Not everybody in that audience are going to be Christians and to take the time to do that is unnecessary... It's in a way pushing your opinions on others while you're in front of them and they can't do anything. If I go to a concert I don't want to have to pray because the band wants to, there's time for that and the stage isn't the place.

[xJesusFreakx]

Bands are there to play a concert. They can pray before it, they can pray after it, they can have a prayer time with fans, etc. There's no reason to take time during the concert to pray... Not everybody in that audience are going to be Christians and to take the time to do that is unnecessary... It's in a way pushing your opinions on others while you're in front of them and they can't do anything. If I go to a concert I don't want to have to pray because the band wants to, there's time for that and the stage isn't the place.

Maybe, or maybe they have other reasons for being there. Matty from For Today, for example, has mentioned before that he doesn't even particularly like that kind of music, but he plays shows because he feels very passionately about their message. Is this any less relevant of a reason to be there than merely to have a good time? Certainly not! I can understand why this wouldn't appeal to you, and I'm not saying that anyone is worse for not really appreciating it, but it's just a little ignorant to go the extra step and say bands shouldn't do it at all.

[Brand-new-123]

Bands are there to play a concert. They can pray before it, they can pray after it, they can have a prayer time with fans, etc. There's no reason to take time during the concert to pray... Not everybody in that audience are going to be Christians and to take the time to do that is unnecessary... It's in a way pushing your opinions on others while you're in front of them and they can't do anything. If I go to a concert I don't want to have to pray because the band wants to, there's time for that and the stage isn't the place.
Bands can incorporate prayer into their show and it'll become part of the concert. If you pay money to go to a show you are allowing the band to perform their show however they see fit. You don't get to choose the set list or length of the set so why should you feel entitled to determine anything else that goes on in the set? Praying with a large group of people isn't the same as forcing them to believe the same thing. If you don't believe in God then all they're seemingly doing is talking to the ceiling and/or comforting themselves and others. Surely, it shouldn't be that big of a deal.
Bands aren't allowed to pray with the audience on stage but they are allowed to use all kinds of profanities and derisive language that I may find offensive? How dare they!

[UnderMyDreams]

Bands can incorporate prayer into their show and it'll become part of the concert. If you pay money to go to a show you are allowing the band to perform their show however they see fit. You don't get to choose the set list or length of the set so why should you feel entitled to determine anything else that goes on in the set? Praying with a large group of people isn't the same as forcing them to believe the same thing. If you don't believe in God then all they're seemingly doing is talking to the ceiling and/or comforting themselves and others. Surely, it shouldn't be that big of a deal.
Bands aren't allowed to pray with the audience on stage but they are allowed to use all kinds of profanities and derisive language that I may find offensive? How dare they!

Words that you may find offensive is completely different than beliefs that many see as completely wrong. If the band prays, they're trying to spread their religion... If you think otherwise you're foolish.

[awakeohsleeper]

I agree strongly with this bit:

Maybe, or maybe they have other reasons for being there. Matty from For Today, for example, has mentioned before that he doesn't even particularly like that kind of music, but he plays shows because he feels very passionately about their message. Is this any less relevant of a reason to be there than merely to have a good time? Certainly not! I can understand why this wouldn't appeal to you, and I'm not saying that anyone is worse for not really appreciating it, but it's just a little ignorant to go the extra step and say bands shouldn't do it at all.

And these bits:

Bands can incorporate prayer into their show and it'll become part of the concert. If you pay money to go to a show you are allowing the band to perform their show however they see fit. You don't get to choose the set list or length of the set so why should you feel entitled to determine anything else that goes on in the set? Praying with a large group of people isn't the same as forcing them to believe the same thing. If you don't believe in God then all they're seemingly doing is talking to the ceiling and/or comforting themselves and others. Surely, it shouldn't be that big of a deal.
Bands aren't allowed to pray with the audience on stage but they are allowed to use all kinds of profanities and derisive language that I may find offensive? How dare they!

Interesting debate though. I'm surprised it's that much of a deal. I wouldn't be offended if someone started praying whether I believed in a God or not, it's up to them.

[Brand-new-123]

Words that you may find offensive is completely different than beliefs that many see as completely wrong. If the band prays, they're trying to spread their religion... If you think otherwise you're foolish.
Plenty of bands pray to do other things than spread a religion. For instance bands often pray for guidance, healing, and comfort. That isn't the same as evangelism at all.
And even if Christianity is wrong how is a band professing faith any worse than using offensive language? If you don't believe in Christianity, then talking about Jesus is somehow more detrimental than swearing? Plenty of people see swearing as completely wrong but bands aren't condemned for that. If you don't like it then don't participate in it, but don't expect others to cater to your whims.

[xJesusFreakx]

I agree strongly with this bit:

And these bits:

Interesting debate though. I'm surprised it's that much of a deal. I wouldn't be offended if someone started praying whether I believed in a God or not, it's up to them.

I mean, I want to be careful not to assume too much and overlook things because I'm a Christian, but I've been in a world literature class while my Buddhist teacher had us all sit in a circle and take part in some yoga meditation, and I didn't ask that she tone this down so as to make me more comfortable.

[batmannj]

Bands are there to play a concert. They can pray before it, they can pray after it, they can have a prayer time with fans, etc. There's no reason to take time during the concert to pray... Not everybody in that audience are going to be Christians and to take the time to do that is unnecessary... It's in a way pushing your opinions on others while you're in front of them and they can't do anything. If I go to a concert I don't want to have to pray because the band wants to, there's time for that and the stage isn't the place.

So if you go to a show of a band that has political beliefs that you may or may not agree with, like Anti-Flag for example, do you take exception to that too? What is the difference? I pay money to go to a concert, but if I have to listen to a vocalist say "Move motherfuckers!" almost every song, is it ok if I get offended?

[UnderMyDreams]

So if you go to a show of a band that has political beliefs that you may or may not agree with, like Anti-Flag for example, do you take exception to that too? What is the difference? I pay money to go to a concert, but if I have to listen to a vocalist say "Move motherfuckers!" almost every song, is it ok if I get offended?

Anti-Flag's songs are all about political stuff. You're not going to listen to Anti-Flag unless you agree with them. If you go to an Anti-Flag concert and don't want to hear political beliefs you'd just be there listening to nothing.

Most christian bands don't have songs all about jesus or whatever. It's one thing if it's just a chrisitan band that sings all christian music like David Crowder, but it's different if it's someone like Relient-k

[awakeohsleeper]

Anti-Flag's songs are all about political stuff. You're not going to listen to Anti-Flag unless you agree with them. If you go to an Anti-Flag concert and don't want to hear political beliefs you'd just be there listening to nothing.

Most christian bands don't have songs all about jesus or whatever. It's one thing if it's just a chrisitan band that sings all christian music like David Crowder, but it's different if it's someone like Relient-k

But Relient K often have explicit Christian lyrics. That makes no sense to me.

[batmannj]

Anti-Flag's songs are all about political stuff. You're not going to listen to Anti-Flag unless you agree with them. If you go to an Anti-Flag concert and don't want to hear political beliefs you'd just be there listening to nothing.

Most christian bands don't have songs all about jesus or whatever. It's one thing if it's just a chrisitan band that sings all christian music like David Crowder, but it's different if it's someone like Relient-k

I enjoy Anti-Flag's music but I definitely don't agree with all of or even most of their political leanings.

As for Relient K, I could find several examples where they say "Jesus" or even most of their lyrics aren't that vague.

My point is, there is a double standard. It's ok for a band to curse and swear on stage because that is the accepted norm, someone says "Jesus loves you" and you get the censorship police wanting to shut it down. As a man who is much wiser than me once stated, "Everyone loves free speech until you disagree with someone."

[Regards]

EXCUSE ME, I FIND THAT QUITE OFFENSIVE.
No you don't.
what is your avatar from? it looks awesome
I google image searched "Cherubim" after reading Ezekiel and it was one of the pictures that came up, pretty epic eh?
My dad leads a church so when that album came out I sent him a link to that and said 'you should try getting the church band to play this new version of the song'. Because it starts off slow he was getting into it. But then it kicked in and he just laughed.
Hahaha, that's awesome.

Seven Swans is awesome, for the record.

Also I really don't see the big deal in this whole praying at shows thing. I honestly could say that if I went to a show and a band that was say... Muslim had a prayer or something(probably way off on the theology of Muslim prayer), but I would bow my head respectively. I really don't see the issue here.

[Regards]

Oh, and I think God Of This City is one of my all time favorite worship songs. That whole songs pumps me up beyond belief.

[fanberlinboy]

Oh, and I think God Of This City is one of my all time favorite worship songs. That whole songs pumps me up beyond belief.
That's a great song. I love Hillsong United's From The Inside Out. That's probably my favorite worship song.

[xJesusFreakx]

My friends really like Hillsong, but they just haven't clicked with me for some reason.

[UnderMyDreams]

I enjoy Anti-Flag's music but I definitely don't agree with all of or even most of their political leanings.

As for Relient K, I could find several examples where they say "Jesus" or even most of their lyrics aren't that vague.

My point is, there is a double standard. It's ok for a band to curse and swear on stage because that is the accepted norm, someone says "Jesus loves you" and you get the censorship police wanting to shut it down. As a man who is much wiser than me once stated, "Everyone loves free speech until you disagree with someone."

Again, swear words are not beliefs. It's not nearly the same. At all. Stop trying to pretend it is.

And yes Relient K does say jesus in some of their songs, the majority do not though.

[xJesusFreakx]

Again, swear words are not beliefs. It's not nearly the same. At all. Stop trying to pretend it is.

And yes Relient K does say jesus in some of their songs, the majority do not though.

Hey, why are you responding to everything besides this?

Maybe, or maybe they have other reasons for being there. Matty from For Today, for example, has mentioned before that he doesn't even particularly like that kind of music, but he plays shows because he feels very passionately about their message. Is this any less relevant of a reason to be there than merely to have a good time? Certainly not! I can understand why this wouldn't appeal to you, and I'm not saying that anyone is worse for not really appreciating it, but it's just a little ignorant to go the extra step and say bands shouldn't do it at all.

[HometownHero]

Why is it so uncomfortable? It might be awkward being the only person who doesn't believe in that or want to join, but that should be nothing more than a minor inconvenience. Besides, don't you think it's just a little selfish for you to expect everyone else to tailor their actions and words to fit whatever makes you feel the most comfortable?
They are praying. Which tailors to Christians. But leaving me out? How about just don't do it and everyone is fine? The Christians are not going to be like "What the fuck?! Where was the prayer?!" Its just inappropriate. Or you can just read the post by Under Your Dreams. That sums it up nicely

[fanberlinboy]

My friends really like Hillsong, but they just haven't clicked with me for some reason.
I don't honestly like that much of their stuff. There's a few songs here and there, but I would agree with you on a lot of it.

[UnderMyDreams]

Hey, why are you responding to everything besides this?

I don't get what that post is trying to say. You're saying the guy doesn't like the music but likes the message in the music? Or what message? I'll guess they're a christian band and he's touring so he can pray and try and get people to convert?

Not exactly sure what you mean there...

[xJesusFreakx]

I don't honestly like that much of their stuff. There's a few songs here and there, but I would agree with you on a lot of it.

Most of it just feels like standard modern praise music to me. I'm sure there are good songs in there, but they're hard to find amidst everything else.

They are praying. Which tailors to Christians. But leaving me out? How about just don't do it and everyone is fine? The Christians are not going to be like "What the fuck?! Where was the prayer?!" Its just inappropriate. Or you can just read the post by Under Your Dreams. That sums it up nicely

So you want them to tailor everything to fit what you want? There's no shortage of bands to listen to, so you can just go see someone else if it's that big of an issue. Like I've been saying, though, I'm not going to get pissed and walk out of a show or anything else because the band, teacher, etc. decided to incorporate his/her/their beliefs into it. I respect what they're doing and don't tell the band afterwards, "Hey, uh, that prayer made me really uncomfortable. I know it's something you're passionate about and that really touches some of your fan base, but I feel awkward really easily, so could you cut that for me? Thanks."

I don't get what that post is trying to say. You're saying the guy doesn't like the music but likes the message in the music? Or what message? I'll guess they're a christian band and he's touring so he can pray and try and get people to convert?

Not exactly sure what you mean there...

They are a Christian band to the greatest extreme, praying and "preaching" at every show just as much as they play. I sadly have not seen them live yet, but my friends have, and it's been a great experience for them. I understand that not everyone has those same beliefs and therefore can't really appreciate this as much as we do, but how can you expect him to shut up, just so you feel more "comfortable"? There's no bashing of other beliefs involved. He doesn't trash talk Allah or call atheists idiots. He just praises his (and my) G-d. Keeping him from doing this is actually really intolerant and ignorant.

[Regards]

My friends really like Hillsong, but they just haven't clicked with me for some reason.
Yeah, me either. Then again I haven't really given them that fair of a listen. Everything I've heard though has just been kinda "Oh, that was a neat song" type deal.
They are praying. Which tailors to Christians. But leaving me out? How about just don't do it and everyone is fine? The Christians are not going to be like "What the fuck?! Where was the prayer?!" Its just inappropriate. Or you can just read the post by Under Your Dreams. That sums it up nicely
Yeah, I'm pretty sure if I went to a Sleeping Giant show I would be quite disappointed if there wasn't prayer. Why does it bother you if you're left out? One band surely cannot cater to the needs of an entire audience.

[HometownHero]

Yeah, me either. Then again I haven't really given them that fair of a listen. Everything I've heard though has just been kinda "Oh, that was a neat song" type deal.

Yeah, I'm pretty sure if I went to a Sleeping Giant show I would be quite disappointed if there wasn't prayer. Why does it bother you if you're left out? One band surely cannot cater to the needs of an entire audience.
You need to figure some shit out then if you are sad there wasn't a prayer at a concert. Maybe if mom and dad didn't pray before dinner time then you could throw that fit. But to be sad they didn't pray before the only reason they are there in the first place? That is the music in case you were wondering

[Brand-new-123]

You need to figure some shit out then if you are sad there wasn't a prayer at a concert. Maybe if mom and dad didn't pray before dinner time then you could throw that fit. But to be sad they didn't pray before the only reason they are there in the first place? That is the music in case you were wondering
You obviously have never seen Sleeping Giant or For Today.

[xJesusFreakx]

You need to figure some shit out then if you are sad there wasn't a prayer at a concert. Maybe if mom and dad didn't pray before dinner time then you could throw that fit. But to be sad they didn't pray before the only reason they are there in the first place? That is the music in case you were wondering

You again ignored my post, and you're assuming too much, and you're being really wishy-washy, and you're bordering on being a troll at this point.

[HometownHero]

You again ignored my post, and you're assuming too much, and you're being really wishy-washy, and you're bordering on being a troll at this point.
Didn't ignore you. Had not got there yet. But why am I being a troll? Because I disagree with you and almost everyone else in this thread?

[HometownHero]

You obviously have never seen Sleeping Giant or For Today.
Hopefully will keep it that way

[UnderMyDreams]

Most of it just feels like standard modern praise music to me. I'm sure there are good songs in there, but they're hard to find amidst everything else.



So you want them to tailor everything to fit what you want? There's no shortage of bands to listen to, so you can just go see someone else if it's that big of an issue. Like I've been saying, though, I'm not going to get pissed and walk out of a show or anything else because the band, teacher, etc. decided to incorporate his/her/their beliefs into it. I respect what they're doing and don't tell the band afterwards, "Hey, uh, that prayer made me really uncomfortable. I know it's something you're passionate about and that really touches some of your fan base, but I feel awkward really easily, so could you cut that for me? Thanks."



They are a Christian band to the greatest extreme, praying and "preaching" at every show just as much as they play. I sadly have not seen them live yet, but my friends have, and it's been a great experience for them. I understand that not everyone has those same beliefs and therefore can't really appreciate this as much as we do, but how can you expect him to shut up, just so you feel more "comfortable"? There's no bashing of other beliefs involved. He doesn't trash talk Allah or call atheists idiots. He just praises his (and my) G-d. Keeping him from doing this is actually really intolerant and ignorant.
I already said. It's one thing if you're a christisan band to the greatest extreme, another if you sing more about other stuff that everyone can relate to rather than god.

[Brand-new-123]

I already said. It's one thing if you're a christisan band to the greatest extreme, another if you sing more about other stuff that everyone can relate to rather than god.
It's not like anyone is making you go to a Christian show or listen to Christian music. If you don't want to be present when someone is praying then don't be.

[xJesusFreakx]

Didn't ignore you. Had not got there yet. But why am I being a troll? Because I disagree with you and almost everyone else in this thread?

You replied to a post after mine before mine, and you've overlooked me before.

The poor case that you are using to defend your intolerant ignorance in this thread is so absurd that I hope it's trolling, not actually what you think.

I already said. It's one thing if you're a christisan band to the greatest extreme, another if you sing more about other stuff that everyone can relate to rather than god.

Your Relient K example was poor because they do sing about G-d in their songs, and I still can't see how it's wrong for people to express their beliefs onstage and encourage others who believe the same to join with them in prayer. Again, they don't bash anyone else's beliefs in the process, and it's sad if you're really that insecure that something like a prayer can upset you this much. I've been in a room with people executing a different religious practice, and it wasn't that bad.

[UnderMyDreams]

It's not like anyone is making you go to a Christian show or listen to Christian music. If you don't want to be present when someone is praying then don't be.

You're completely missing he whole point of what I was saying.

[HometownHero]

You replied to a post after mine before mine, and you've overlooked me before.

The poor case that you are using to defend your intolerant ignorance in this thread is so absurd that I hope it's trolling, not actually what you think.



Your Relient K example was poor because they do sing about G-d in their songs, and I still can't see how it's wrong for people to express their beliefs onstage and encourage others who believe the same to join with them in prayer. Again, they don't bash anyone else's beliefs in the process, and it's sad if you're really that insecure that something like a prayer can upset you this much. I've been in a room with people executing a different religious practice, and it wasn't that bad.
Once more. I don't give a shit if you sing about your faith. That is fine. Spread your happy message to the masses. I like plenty of Christian music with religious undertones. But it is IGNORANT and INTOLERANT to ask your entire crowd to pray. And it's just stupid. Pray for guidance, help, strength, whatever before the show with your bandmates and give thanks after. Its not that hard to cater to EVERYONE

[UnderMyDreams]

You replied to a post after mine before mine, and you've overlooked me before.

The poor case that you are using to defend your intolerant ignorance in this thread is so absurd that I hope it's trolling, not actually what you think.



Your Relient K example was poor because they do sing about G-d in their songs, and I still can't see how it's wrong for people to express their beliefs onstage and encourage others who believe the same to join with them in prayer. Again, they don't bash anyone else's beliefs in the process, and it's sad if you're really that insecure that something like a prayer can upset you this much. I've been in a room with people executing a different religious practice, and it wasn't that bad.

I'm saying that the stage isn't the right place to try and promote your religious ideologies. Again, yes Relient K has written songs about Jesus. BUT, the majority of their songs are not. And their whole new CD isn't about God either. If you're a band that primarily sings about god, and you're on a christian tour go ahead. I saw Relient K with New Found Glory a few years back, they didn't pray.

It's not necessary to pray. There is absolutely nothing that that is going to accomplish at all. Like I said, if you're an absolute christian band on a christian tour go ahead and pray. If you're playing with bands like New Found Glory, or your music isn't mostly about god, you shouldn't be praying.

Another example would be FF5 on the AP tour, they didn't pray and they shouldn't have.

[Regards]

There is an obvious lack of understanding of the power of prayer to people who do not believe.

Also no one is forcing you to pray. All that's being asked is that for the people that do want to pray, join in. If you don't then just let us have our moment and be done with it.

[Brand-new-123]

I'm saying that the stage isn't the right place to try and promote your religious ideologies. Again, yes Relient K has written songs about Jesus. BUT, the majority of their songs are not. And their whole new CD isn't about God either. If you're a band that primarily sings about god, and you're on a christian tour go ahead. I saw Relient K with New Found Glory a few years back, they didn't pray.

It's not necessary to pray. There is absolutely nothing that that is going to accomplish at all. Like I said, if you're an absolute christian band on a christian tour go ahead and pray. If you're playing with bands like New Found Glory, or your music isn't mostly about god, you shouldn't be praying.

Another example would be FF5 on the AP tour, they didn't pray and they shouldn't have.
root of disagreement.

What makes you an authority on this issue? whatever happened to the band's freedom of speech? does their prayer infringe on your rights in any way whatsoever? if not, then why is it an issue at all?

[UnderMyDreams]

root of disagreement.

What makes you an authority on this issue? whatever happened to the band's freedom of speech? does their prayer infringe on your rights in any way whatsoever? if not, then why is it an issue at all?

What does praying in the middle of the show do?

[UnderMyDreams]

Once more. I don't give a shit if you sing about your faith. That is fine. Spread your happy message to the masses. I like plenty of Christian music with religious undertones. But it is IGNORANT and INTOLERANT to ask your entire crowd to pray. And it's just stupid. Pray for guidance, help, strength, whatever before the show with your bandmates and give thanks after. Its not that hard to cater to EVERYONE

This.

[KoolAidMatt]

What does praying in the middle of the show do?

Possibly save you from a lost eternity

[HometownHero]

Possibly save you from a lost eternity
Those who don't believe in that don't give a shit

[KoolAidMatt]

I'm just pointing out the bands point of view

[Matthew Tsai]

I have never walked out on a band praying. Even though I have wanted too. Its just unfair to me, that they would put me in an uncomfortable situation like that. I would never renounce God on stage.

That's like saying that at a concert full of Harry Potter fans, the band saying "We think Twilight is a pretty good book" would be "unfair" and "uncomfortable" for people who like Harry Potter. I've said it before and I'll say it again - I think you're a good poster on this site, but you're just not being rational at all here. The band can do whatever they please - nobody can cater to everybody's interests. In this country we have free speech. If you wanna express your religion, that's ok. But that's why it's free speech, if you don't wanna participate, you don't have to. Is it so offensive that you can't tolerate 10 seconds of some people praying to their god? If so, then you've got a religion-phobia problem, not an "unfair" problem.

[Brand-new-123]

What does praying in the middle of the show do?
first off, thanks for answering my questions. I thought your responses were well organized, articulate, and illuminating.

Now in response to your inquiry, prayer in the middle of a show can serve a variety of purposes. Some being intercessory and others confessional. Bands may want to have a prayer to God with a community of like minded believers for the purpose of encouragement and guidance as part of the larger worship emphasis of their show, or they may join together to offer a prayer of thanksgiving to the Most High for the opportunity and ability to commune with fellow brothers and sisters in a public forum.

[Matthew Tsai]

What does praying in the middle of the show do?

That didn't answer his question. Does prayer infringe on personal rights? Especially when the band invites the crowd to pray, and not forces, which would be true intolerance and bigotry. Whether or not prayer "does" something is irrelevant here.

[UnderMyDreams]

first off, thanks for answering my questions. I thought your responses were well organized, articulate, and illuminating.

Now in response to your inquiry, prayer in the middle of a show can serve a variety of purposes. Some being intercessory and others confessional. Bands may want to have a prayer to God with a community of like minded believers for the purpose of encouragement and guidance as part of the larger worship emphasis of their show, or they may join together to offer a prayer of thanksgiving to the Most High for the opportunity and ability to commune with fellow brothers and sisters in a public forum.

Aw. Now, if the band would like to have a prayer session with their fans/ "community of like mided believers"(however, many of the fans are not like minded believers, and if you want like minded believers go to church.), wouldn't it be more beneficial to have a prayer session for the fans who would like to attend after the show? That way the fans who do not want religious ideals fed to them at shows don't have to go, and those who are religious or would like to learn more can go have a prayer session or bible study with the band after the show.

If they want to offer a thanksgiving to the man in the sky, they can easily do this before or after the show, and instead thank the fans for getting them to where they are during the show.

[HometownHero]

That's like saying that at a concert full of Harry Potter fans, the band saying "We think Twilight is a pretty good book" would be "unfair" and "uncomfortable" for people who like Harry Potter. I've said it before and I'll say it again - I think you're a good poster on this site, but you're just not being rational at all here. The band can do whatever they please - nobody can cater to everybody's interests. In this country we have free speech. If you wanna express your religion, that's ok. But that's why it's free speech, if you don't wanna participate, you don't have to. Is it so offensive that you can't tolerate 10 seconds of some people praying to their god? If so, then you've got a religion-phobia problem, not an "unfair" problem.
I'm trying to be rational here with this question. Not trying to be a smart ass at all. Do you not think by them praying at a show they are asking for your support/respect in doing so?

[UnderMyDreams]

root of disagreement.

What makes you an authority on this issue? whatever happened to the band's freedom of speech? does their prayer infringe on your rights in any way whatsoever? if not, then why is it an issue at all?

Once more. I don't give a shit if you sing about your faith. That is fine. Spread your happy message to the masses. I like plenty of Christian music with religious undertones. But it is IGNORANT and INTOLERANT to ask your entire crowd to pray. And it's just stupid. Pray for guidance, help, strength, whatever before the show with your bandmates and give thanks after. Its not that hard to cater to EVERYONE

Dont ask questions that have been answered many times. Just because it doesn't infringe on freedom of speech doesn't make it right. If I go outside my dorm and say that black people should be segregated, I have the right to do that because of freedom of speech. Is that right? Surely not.

[KoolAidMatt]

I do think that them praying is asking for their respect, but in saying that is that too much to ask? I mean I've never been to a show with a band made of Christian members praying but why is that such a big deal for people?

[Brand-new-123]

That's like saying that at a concert full of Harry Potter fans, the band saying "We think Twilight is a pretty good book" would be "unfair" and "uncomfortable" for people who like Harry Potter. I've said it before and I'll say it again - I think you're a good poster on this site, but you're just not being rational at all here. The band can do whatever they please - nobody can cater to everybody's interests. In this country we have free speech. If you wanna express your religion, that's ok. But that's why it's free speech, if you don't wanna participate, you don't have to. Is it so offensive that you can't tolerate 10 seconds of some people praying to their god? If so, then you've got a religion-phobia problem, not an "unfair" problem.

That didn't answer his question. Does prayer infringe on personal rights? Especially when the band invites the crowd to pray, and not forces, which would be true intolerance and bigotry. Whether or not prayer "does" something is irrelevant here.
Thank you sir.

[HometownHero]

Dont ask questions that have been answered many times. Just because it doesn't infringe on freedom of speech doesn't make it right. If I go outside my dorm and say that black people should be segregated, I have the right to do that because of freedom of speech. Is that right? Surely not.
You are my new favorite poster haha

[Matthew Tsai]

I'm trying to be rational here with this question. Not trying to be a smart ass at all. Do you not think by them praying at a show they are asking for your support/respect in doing so?

No band needs an audience's support/respect to do anything. Yes, the band owes its existence to their fans and they should respect them, but they're not obligated to have the audience's respect to do anything.

But that's besides the point. The major issue here is whether prayer is "bigotry" or "ignorance" or whatever. A lot of bands smash their guitars on stage. I don't like violence. Am I going to go out and say they're being intolerant of people who don't like violence? No, cause it's their show, and it's your option if you want to come or not. They're not forcing you to do anything, which automatically disqualifies any validity in the intolerance argument. They simply invite you to pray. Imagine, something as harmless as that - close your eyes for a few seconds, say some words to a higher being, amen. And you don't have to if you don't want to. If a band prays on stage, it's likely because that's their lifestyle. As a fan, you need to respect that.

[UnderMyDreams]

That's like saying that at a concert full of Harry Potter fans, the band saying "We think Twilight is a pretty good book" would be "unfair" and "uncomfortable" for people who like Harry Potter. I've said it before and I'll say it again - I think you're a good poster on this site, but you're just not being rational at all here. The band can do whatever they please - nobody can cater to everybody's interests. In this country we have free speech. If you wanna express your religion, that's ok. But that's why it's free speech, if you don't wanna participate, you don't have to. Is it so offensive that you can't tolerate 10 seconds of some people praying to their god? If so, then you've got a religion-phobia problem, not an "unfair" problem.

THAT'S COMPLETELY DIFFERENT! How can you compare people liking a book to people believing in a divine power!? It's not quite the same thing at all. If you go to a concert full of harry potter fans and say "Twilight is a pretty good book" that's not the same as going to a concert of believers and non believers and saying "Alright will the whole crowd please bow their heads and pray with us." How exactly is that the same thing...? That's the dumbest comparison I have ever heard. Unless you think that Harry Potter and Twilight are religions. In which case, you're crazy and carry on.

[Matthew Tsai]

Dont ask questions that have been answered many times. Just because it doesn't infringe on freedom of speech doesn't make it right. If I go outside my dorm and say that black people should be segregated, I have the right to do that because of freedom of speech. Is that right? Surely not.

Really? You're comparing praying to endorsing segregation? Really?

Appealing to a higher being doesn't involve harming anyone. This is the worst post I've read all day.

[Matthew Tsai]

THAT'S COMPLETELY DIFFERENT! How can you compare people liking a book to people believing in a divine power!? It's not quite the same thing at all. If you go to a concert full of harry potter fans and say "Twilight is a pretty good book" that's not the same as going to a concert of believers and non believers and saying "Alright will the whole crowd please bow their heads and pray with us." How exactly is that the same thing...? That's the dumbest comparison I have ever heard. Unless you think that Harry Potter and Twilight are religions. In which case, you're crazy and carry on.

It's a valid comparison because they lie in the same vein - it's a matter of preference. If you prefer atheism, fine. If you prefer religion, fine. Nobody is saying you must bend to a certain side. Fact: you have to option to pray w/ them or not. End of story.

[Brand-new-123]

Aw. Now, if the band would like to have a prayer session with their fans/ "community of like mided believers"(however, many of the fans are not like minded believers, and if you want like minded believers go to church.), wouldn't it be more beneficial to have a prayer session for the fans who would like to attend after the show? That way the fans who do not want religious ideals fed to them at shows don't have to go, and those who are religious or would like to learn more can go have a prayer session or bible study with the band after the show.

If they want to offer a thanksgiving to the man in the sky, they can easily do this before or after the show, and instead thank the fans for getting them to where they are during the show.
All of those are great ideas, and a lot of bands do that. However, not all of a band's fans can do all kinds of extra stuff outside of just going to a show. A lot of Christian bands that tour with non christian bands take their message very seriously and consider it their ministry. I don't understand why they should water down their message on stage just because people get uncomfortable. If something is so important to you and has changed the person you are in a good way, wouldn't you want to share that experience with others? and a stage is a great place to do it.
Also, a really easy way to avoid uncomfortable feelings for yourself is to avoid participating in the activities that cause them like avoiding bands that pray on stage if it irks you.

[UnderMyDreams]

Really? You're comparing praying to endorsing segregation? Really?

Appealing to a higher being doesn't involve harming anyone. This is the worst post I've read all day.

I'm not gonna take offense to that considering most posts aren't so "bad," so by saying that it really doesn't mean much. Anyways, you're right it was a bit extreme. The point was that free speech protects lots of different things, but that doesn't mean that they're right. There are people sometimes that visit campus and stand outside a building with signs and say how everybody on campus are going to hell and they're so much better than us and we need to repent and all this bull shit, that's not right. But freedom of speech protects that...

Just because there's freedom of speech doesn't make it right. You need to respect people.

[Matthew Tsai]

I'm not gonna take offense to that considering most posts aren't so "bad," so by saying that it really doesn't mean much. Anyways, you're right it was a bit extreme. The point was that free speech protects lots of different things, but that doesn't mean that they're right. There are people sometimes that visit campus and stand outside a building with signs and say how everybody on campus are going to hell and they're so much better than us and we need to repent and all this bull shit, that's not right. But freedom of speech protects that...

Just because there's freedom of speech doesn't make it right. You need to respect people.

You're right, but I think you're confusing praying and true "repent or die" bigotry. There's a difference.

[UnderMyDreams]

All of those are great ideas, and a lot of bands do that. However, not all of a band's fans can do all kinds of extra stuff outside of just going to a show. A lot of Christian bands that tour with non christian bands take their message very seriously and consider it their ministry. I don't understand why they should water down their message on stage just because people get uncomfortable. If something is so important to you and has changed the person you are in a good way, wouldn't you want to share that experience with others? and a stage is a great place to do it.
Also, a really easy way to avoid uncomfortable feelings for yourself is to avoid participating in the activities that cause them like avoiding bands that pray on stage if it irks you.

If you went to a concert and the band asked you to pray to the devil and did satanist stuff on stage, would you feel comfortable?

[Brand-new-123]

If you went to a concert and the band asked you to pray to the devil and did satanist stuff on stage, would you feel comfortable?
lol probably not but as long as they are not doing anything illegal i.e. sacrificing goats or something then they can do whatever they want. I might even step outside the venue or remain seated in the back, but them doing that has no effect on me at all. (not that actual satanists even believe in Satan, let alone pray to him)

[UnderMyDreams]

It's a valid comparison because they lie in the same vein - it's a matter of preference. If you prefer atheism, fine. If you prefer religion, fine. Nobody is saying you must bend to a certain side. Fact: you have to option to pray w/ them or not. End of story.

If you go to a concert of all harry potter fans(ridiculous) and the band decides to say "Hey we should all read Twilight instaed of Harry Potter" that's not gonna go over so well.

Ridiculous comparison.

[KoolAidMatt]

If you went to a concert and the band asked you to pray to the devil and did satanist stuff on stage, would you feel comfortable?

No I would not feel comfortable but I would not go to that kind of show if I knew that's what the band members stood for

[Regards]

If you went to a concert and the band asked you to pray to the devil and did satanist stuff on stage, would you feel comfortable?
I wouldn't complain about it. They wouldn't be asking me, they'd be asking the people who believed in that to do so. Also the Harry Potter comparison was just as off the path as your walking out into a college dorm and yelling a racist remark comparison. Big difference.

[UnderMyDreams]

lol probably not but as long as they are not doing anything illegal i.e. sacrificing goats or something then they can do whatever they want. I might even step outside the venue or remain seated in the back, but them doing that has no effect on me at all. (not that actual satanists even believe in Satan, let alone pray to him)

So it would make you uncomfortable.

[Regards]

So it would make you uncomfortable.
Just because something makes you uncomfortable doesn't mean that they don't have a right to still do it. What are you trying to get across here?

[Matthew Tsai]

If you went to a concert and the band asked you to pray to the devil and did satanist stuff on stage, would you feel comfortable?

I might not feel comfortable because I'm not a satanist, but I would hardly consider it offensive or intolerant. Religion is a part of many people's lives, and if that's who they are, then go ahead, pray to the devil and do satanist stuff. That's your choice. I'm not offended because I'm not obligated to participate.

[Brand-new-123]

So it would make you uncomfortable.
maybe, I've seen self proclaimed satanist bands before and it hasn't affected me one way or another. If it's what they do, they can do it. Even if I might feel somewhat uncomfortable, they can still do what they want without having to cater to my preference. I would honestly be slightly disappointed if a "satanist" band didn't throw in the obligatory "Hail Satan!" at least a couple times in their set. It's something that's expected.

[UnderMyDreams]

Just because something makes you uncomfortable doesn't mean that they don't have a right to still do it. What are you trying to get across here?
I'm not saying they don't have a right to do it, obviously they do. I'm saying that it's not right to do it.

I might not feel comfortable because I'm not a satanist, but I would hardly consider it offensive or intolerant. Religion is a part of many people's lives, and if that's who they are, then go ahead, pray to the devil and do satanist stuff. That's your choice. I'm not offended because I'm not obligated to participate.

maybe, I've seen self proclaimed satanist bands before and it hasn't affected me one way or another. If it's what they do, they can do it. Even if I might feel somewhat uncomfortable, they can still do what they want without having to cater to my preference. I would honestly be slightly disappointed if a "satanist" band didn't throw in the obligatory "Hail Satan!" at least a couple times in their set. It's something that's expected.
I highly doubt this. If a band comes on stage and asks the audience to pray to satin, I highly doubt that you would feel comfortable while the audience and band does that. And therefore they shouldn't do it. The stage is no place to promote your religious views, unless, again, you're on a full christian tour(like the Winter Wonderland Tour featuring Toby Mac and Relient K).

[Matthew Tsai]

I'm not saying they don't have a right to do it, obviously they do. I'm saying that it's not right to do it.




I highly doubt this. If a band comes on stage and asks the audience to pray to satin, I highly doubt that you would feel comfortable while the audience and band does that. And therefore they shouldn't do it. The stage is no place to promote your religious views, unless, again, you're on a full christian tour(like the Winter Wonderland Tour featuring Toby Mac and Relient K).

I would defend completely their right to do it. I would've known before hand that they were Satanists, and would have expected this. But since it was my option to go to the show, I would respect that they want to do this and would be comfortable in my option not to participate. If I hadn't known, it would be fine with me too because when it comes down to it, it's their choice. If it's part of their lifestyle, then it's part of their lifestyle. I can't change that, and at the same time, I don't have to encourage them to suppress their sense of religion/belonging to the Satanist church (or whatever it's called).

[Brand-new-123]

I'm not saying they don't have a right to do it, obviously they do. I'm saying that it's not right to do it.




I highly doubt this. If a band comes on stage and asks the audience to pray to satin, I highly doubt that you would feel comfortable while the audience and band does that. And therefore they shouldn't do it. The stage is no place to promote your religious views, unless, again, you're on a full christian tour(like the Winter Wonderland Tour featuring Toby Mac and Relient K).
Why would I care if someone wanted me to pray to a fabric? I still don't have to do it. I don't want a band to cater their show to me. Fat Mike talking about politics makes me uncomfortable. They don't tour exclusively with political bands. Should he stop because it makes me uncomfortable? If they want to do something I don't like, that's fine but I'll probably abstain.

[Jake Denning]

I'm not saying they don't have a right to do it, obviously they do. I'm saying that it's not right to do it.




I highly doubt this. If a band comes on stage and asks the audience to pray to satin, I highly doubt that you would feel comfortable while the audience and band does that. And therefore they shouldn't do it. The stage is no place to promote your religious views, unless, again, you're on a full christian tour(like the Winter Wonderland Tour featuring Toby Mac and Relient K).

Bands like Carnifex and Deicide would never exist if this were enforced.

[Regards]

I'm not saying they don't have a right to do it, obviously they do. I'm saying that it's not right to do it.




I highly doubt this. If a band comes on stage and asks the audience to pray to satin, I highly doubt that you would feel comfortable while the audience and band does that. And therefore they shouldn't do it. The stage is no place to promote your religious views, unless, again, you're on a full christian tour(like the Winter Wonderland Tour featuring Toby Mac and Relient K).
I think if anything I'd more want to know why they're praying to a fabric instead of caring about the fact that they were praying.

[UnderMyDreams]

Bands like Carnifex and Deicide would never exist if this were enforced.
Never heard of them, but I doubt that.

I think if anything I'd more want to know why they're praying to a fabric instead of caring about the fact that they were praying.
Typo, my bad.

[Sic Transit Zeb]

Go ahead and pray but don't call anyone out who isn't praying. My two cents.

[awakeohsleeper]

Hahaha, that's awesome.

Seven Swans is awesome, for the record.

I've only ever heard Illinoise and his Christmas CDs. Really should check that out.

There is an obvious lack of understanding of the power of prayer to people who do not believe.

Also no one is forcing you to pray. All that's being asked is that for the people that do want to pray, join in. If you don't then just let us have our moment and be done with it.

Love that!

Just to add an extra dimension to this exciting debate: a lot of Christian bands have lyrics that are basically prayers? For example, many aforementioned bands such as Sleeping Giant or For Today's lyrics can resemble a prayer. Even Relient K saying "I need you, I need you, I need you here, I need you now" for me is a prayer. What about Underoath? "I'm the desperate, you're the saviour... tear me down, let me start again". There are numerous examples.

The thing is, in my opinion, we're not 'Christians', we just follow Jesus. We're not in it for a title or a label, we're in it because we see something in Jesus that makes us take note. And this thing that we see makes us want to change our whole lives to reflect him. So whether it's lyrics or a prayer during a show or helping out a homeless dude or making someone a sandwich or being there for our best friend or hanging out at church or going for a walk or giving water bottles to dehydrated drunk people outside a club... we want our lives to be a prayer that echoes who Jesus is and what he stands for. We cannot hide behind anything other than that. That's what it's about. It's a lifestyle not something we can switch on and off. And sure, Christians mess up because we're not perfect, but we still want to try and reflect Jesus in what we do.