Christian Rock

[Zummy]

I was listening to House of Heroes who I just found out is Christian Rock group. This got me thinking: I was wondering what people thought of Christian Rock in general. Do you automatically avoid it? Are you willing to give a chance? Are there some types of christian rock you can't bring yourself to listen to? Let me know.

[duhpunk]

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/70/199102600_463beca9a3.jpg

[thesafeword]

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/70/199102600_463beca9a3.jpg
Maybe one of the funniest/most pathetic things that I have ever seen.

[ergo]

Most Christian music just sucks (tooth and nail).

I enjoy some christian bands though, 16 Horsepower are great.

[chipdip18]

It's usually all bland and generic.

[maxvsmaradona]

Well there are two different Christian Rocks. The stereotypical "Jesus, fill me with your hot sticky love" christian rock, and then the screamo christian rock, like UO and TDWP, which, I'm pretty sure Jesus himself wouldn't listen to.

[duhpunk]

jesus brings teh mosh

[Colorblind!]

listen to bradley hathaway, and then leave.

[Colorblind!]

www.myspace.com/lifestorymonologue
www.myspace.com/ascitiesburn

[xJesusFreakx]

Well there are two different Christian Rocks. The stereotypical "Jesus, fill me with your hot sticky love" christian rock, and then the screamo christian rock, like UO and TDWP, which, I'm pretty sure Jesus himself wouldn't listen to.

:hitself:

[BryterJonah]

If it's somebody like Sufjan Stevens, who doesn't limit himself to the confines of thy "christian music" label, we're good.

Sufjan has vision. And is subtle in his writing when he does bring up religious subjects.

[BryterJonah]

Oh and yes, I generally avoid it.

[PunksNotDead!]

If it's somebody like Sufjan Stevens, who doesn't limits himself to the confines of thy "christian music" label, we're good.
took the words right out of my mouth. but i was gonna say someone like as i lay dying or norma jean. christian metalcore and post hardcore are pretty popular and i generally like it

[about3fitty]

7Jii68NPRSA

[Duexy]

my children my bride

[mick_jagger]

mewithoutYou. I mean, they don't consider themselves one, but they still talk personally about the subject.

[Cockstrong]

It's usually all bland and generic.


Exactly, that doesn't mean I hate all christian bands, but in general Christian Rock is very bland.

[BryterJonah]

eKV2yzbv8vI

[3eb23]

i dig some relient k and as cities burn. and some old beloved.

[_Andrew]

I got love for Sufjan, MxPx and Relient K.

[PardonMyFreedom]

Eh, Christian rock's too broad of a term. There's, like, Christian pop punk, Christian hardcore, Christian metalcore... Etc.
Some of it's good, but if the lyrics are up your ass about believing, then it's not really.

[Aninda Antar]

I heard somewhere that Bring Me The Horizon were a Christian band. Lolz were had that day.

[bard]

this subject always kills me. why does it matter if they're christian?

should non-christian bands have their religion put in front of their genre? like "athiest pop/punk" or "buddhist r & b"

just let the music speak for itself.

i'm fine with them being called christian bands, but there isn't a genre called christian rock or christian metal. it's just rock and metal, and the members of the band happen to be christian.

also, there are great christian bands.

first and foremost - mewithoutYou

also:

norma jean
zao
beloved
surfjan (sp?)

[nikaidoh]

Christian rock is for pussies, and it's all pretty bland and generic.

[UnderMyDreams]

I like Relient K

[Colorblind!]

Sufjan Stevens and mewithoutYou are both extremely bland and generic.
Brilliant guys.

[bard]

Sufjan Stevens and mewithoutYou are both extremely bland and generic.
Brilliant guys.
i'm confused by this post

[MADSTA]

As long as they're not too preachy and the music's good I'll listen.
Needtobreathe is a really good christian band.

[MADSTA]

Christian rock is for pussies, and it's all pretty bland and generic.

i'm confused by this post
He's referencing the above post and being sarcastic.

[Colorblind!]

He's referencing the above post and being sarcastic.

Haha, thanks.

I forgot the thread topic was about christian rock, which would make sense, but then we started talking about actually good music and still people were going on about how it's bland and generic. Pretty dumb statement.

[maxvsmaradona]

<3 Sufjan Stevens

[rising_tied]

I dont believe in Jesus whatso ever nor do I believe the Bibles events were real. I dont like religion at all yet I listen to Norma Jean, Haste The Day, Gwen Stacy, Attack Attack! and shit like that.
I respect them for what THEY believe and how they put it into music, and the music each of these bands has is good in my opinoin, but that will not change my views

[nikaidoh]

He's referencing the above post and being sarcastic.


That doesn't change my opinion of christian rock.

[UnderMyDreams]

That doesn't change my opinion of christian rock.

So you think mewithoutYou is bland and generic?

[batmannj]

Maybe one of the funniest/most pathetic things that I have ever seen.
The picture was probably taken why he was headbanging during a song. It was probably in the middle of it.
Well there are two different Christian Rocks. The stereotypical "Jesus, fill me with your hot sticky love" christian rock, and then the screamo christian rock, like UO and TDWP, which, I'm pretty sure Jesus himself wouldn't listen to.
That doesn't describe Christian music at all.
this subject always kills me. why does it matter if they're christian?

should non-christian bands have their religion put in front of their genre? like "athiest pop/punk" or "buddhist r & b"

just let the music speak for itself.

i'm fine with them being called christian bands, but there isn't a genre called christian rock or christian metal. it's just rock and metal, and the members of the band happen to be christian.

also, there are great christian bands.

first and foremost - mewithoutYou

also:

norma jean
zao
beloved
surfjan (sp?)
I totally agree with you. Just because a band is Christian doesn't mean they are bad. I am glad that someone has some sense in this thread.

Also, the bands he recommends are great.
Christian rock is for pussies, and it's all pretty bland and generic.
What bands have you listened to? Obviously not many.

[MADSTA]

That doesn't change my opinion of christian rock.
I wasn't trying to change your opinion, I wasn't even talking to you.

[bard]

Fight Fight Fight Fight Fight

[PunksNotDead!]

i find it funny that my agnostic friend wants to start a christian post hardcore band

[nikaidoh]

So you think mewithoutYou is bland and generic?

Mewithoutyou isn't a Christian rock band at all, considering that the "Christian Rock" I was referring to was a specific genre. Just because a band has themes that refer to Christianity or any religion doesn't make them a band that should be placed under that specific genre.



What bands have you listened to? Obviously not many.
And again, the bands that I refer to when I sat "Christian rock" IS NOT a band that has Christian lyrical themes or some aspect of religion in part of their music. The "Christian rock" I refer to is a genre of music with the specific intent of converting/spreading the word of Christ through their music.

[nikaidoh]

I wasn't trying to change your opinion, I wasn't even talking to you.


You did quote me though, so I assumed you were talking to me.

[BryterJonah]

yet I listen to Norma Jean, Haste The Day, Gwen Stacy, Attack Attack! and shit like that.
I'm so sorry to hear that.

[nikaidoh]

I'm so sorry to hear that.

bahaha

[MADSTA]

Fight Fight Fight Fight Fight
E-fighting is for lame-os.

[batmannj]

Mewithoutyou isn't a Christian rock band at all, considering that the "Christian Rock" I was referring to was a specific genre. Just because a band has themes that refer to Christianity or any religion doesn't make them a band that should be placed under that specific genre.



And again, the bands that I refer to when I sat "Christian rock" IS NOT a band that has Christian lyrical themes or some aspect of religion in part of their music. The "Christian rock" I refer to is a genre of music with the specific intent of converting/spreading the word of Christ through their music.

If you are talking about worship music then I see what your point is. To be honest, the artists making worship music are catering to a specific market and are not really looking at innovating their respective genre's, they are more looking for music that is powerful and can influence a congregation on a Sunday. Sometimes even those bands (David Crowder Band) will try and go against the grain and make some music that is more innovative than the traditional worship fare.

Other bands that specifically make music to bring people closer to Jesus can be innovative. Zao's earlier music pioneered some forms of hardcore, and after Dan joined the band as the vocalist, they broke out of the conventional bounds of heavy music, and his vocal pattern has been attempted to be copied several times over, but no one has even come close. Living Sacrifice has always had straightforward lyrics about Jesus and they have helped to shape the landscape of heavier styles of music. Bless the Martyr, Kiss the Child by Norma Jean is another record that comes to mind.

House Of Heroes record is one that is held in high esteem by Christian and non-Christian audiences, mewithoutYou, while not specifically Christian, has lyrical themes and stories taken directly from the Bible and they are just as influential as any band out there making music today. There is more innovation in Christian music than it gets credit for.

[npmshah]

i listen to alot of christian artists and dont find much wrong with it
my only problem is when they start getting preachy like
"jesus is all, jseus is one, jesus is my father and knows all" sorta stuff

[Skadrist]

To quote Hank Hill when he was talking to a Christian Rock Group "Can't you see your not making Christianity any better your just making Rock and Roll worse."

[FailedRepublic]

Mewithoutyou isn't a Christian rock band at all, considering that the "Christian Rock" I was referring to was a specific genre. Just because a band has themes that refer to Christianity or any religion doesn't make them a band that should be placed under that specific genre.
.
I completely agree, that's like saying that Avenged Sevenfold is a christian band. Personally, I try to stay away from Christian things, because I'm a bit of a religiphobe (not a word but oh well). It's pretty much because the town I live in is filled with baptists who try to shove the bible up your ass at any opportunity.

[micahistheballs]

The idiocy on both sides is amazing.

[batmannj]

The idiocy on both sides is amazing.

Ironic post is ironic.

[thespearkid]

mewithoutYou is good shit.

[batmannj]

mewithoutYou is good shit.

For sure. Just got done listening to Brother, Sister and I keep thinking about how May 19th is a long way away for the new one.

[bard]

mewithoutYou makes me feel closer to God than anything else in my life.

real talk

[Zummy]

I feel the same way as a lot of you do. To me it seems pointless to try and quantify a band as this or that before even checking them out. In my opinion people should listen to a band and then decide if they are good or not. The distinction in my mind comes down to bands that have christian beliefs but make "normal"( or whatever you would call the shit we listen to) music and those that make music which refers to"Jesus our savior" and stuff like that. If you wanna belief in JC and be a part of the scene then go ahead. Just don't try to convert me or give me a baptism.... considering I'm atheist that wouldn't go over too well.

[FailedRepublic]

I feel the same way as a lot of you do. To me it seems pointless to try and quantify a band as this or that before even checking them out. In my opinion people should listen to a band and then decide if they are good or not. The distinction in my mind comes down to bands that have christian beliefs but make "normal"( or whatever you would call the shit we listen to) music and those that make music which refers to"Jesus our savior" and stuff like that. If you wanna belief in JC and be a part of the scene then go ahead. Just don't try to convert me or give me a baptism.... considering I'm atheist that wouldn't go over too well.
Agree-eth-ed
I'm an atheist in a tiny town where every other living object is either a Seventh Day Adventist, Baptist, or Latter Day Saint. I can get along with these people fine, as long as they don't force their beliefs upon me.

[chipdip18]

Agree-eth-ed
I'm an atheist in a tiny town where every other living object is either a Seventh Day Adventist, Baptist, or Latter Day Saint. I can get along with these people fine, as long as they don't force their beliefs upon me.

I wish everyone had this attitude. Everybody does their own thing, to each his own.

[mick_jagger]

I dont believe in Jesus whatso ever nor do I believe the Bibles events were real. I dont like religion at all yet I listen to Norma Jean, Haste The Day, Gwen Stacy, Attack Attack! and shit like that.
I respect them for what THEY believe and how they put it into music, and the music each of these bands has is good in my opinoin, but that will not change my views

Technically you can't not believe in Jesus because he was a real person. It's sort of like saying you don't believe in Abraham Lincoln. My friend tried to say he didn't believe in Jesus too. You can, however, say that you don't believe in God, as there is no physical proof that God existed. I'm not saying Jesus could do all the magic stuff the bible claims he could, and I myself am an agnostic, but he was a real person who was crucified, as were others at the time, he was just one of the main spreaders of Christianity at the time and the people viewed him as a profit, which is why he is bigger than others who also spread Christian ideals. It's still good that you respect their views though.

[VampiresRevenge]

Agree-eth-ed
I'm an atheist in a tiny town where every other living object is either a Seventh Day Adventist, Baptist, or Latter Day Saint. I can get along with these people fine, as long as they don't force their beliefs upon me.
This. I'm surrounded by Christians. I don't have a problem with them until they start asking me stupid questions. My grandparents are always trying to convert my brother, my parents, and me. It gets really annoying.

As for Christian music, if I like the music and then find out that it is Christian, I don't have a problem with it. The fact that it is Christian isn't enough to make me dislike it.

[chipdip18]

Technically you can't not believe in Jesus because he was a real person. It's sort of like saying you don't believe in Abraham Lincoln. My friend tried to say he didn't believe in Jesus too. You can, however, say that you don't believe in God, as there is no physical proof that God existed. I'm not saying Jesus could do all the magic stuff the bible claims he could, and I myself am an agnostic, but he was a real person who was crucified, as were others at the time, he was just one of the main spreaders of Christianity at the time and the people viewed him as a profit, which is why he is bigger than others who also spread Christian ideals. It's still good that you respect their views though.

Hahhaa sorry, but it's prophet, not profit. But yeah good post.

[VampiresRevenge]

Technically you can't not believe in Jesus because he was a real person. It's sort of like saying you don't believe in Abraham Lincoln. My friend tried to say he didn't believe in Jesus too. You can, however, say that you don't believe in God, as there is no physical proof that God existed. I'm not saying Jesus could do all the magic stuff the bible claims he could, and I myself am an agnostic, but he was a real person who was crucified, as were others at the time, he was just one of the main spreaders of Christianity at the time and the people viewed him as a profit, which is why he is bigger than others who also spread Christian ideals. It's still good that you respect their views though.
I agree with all of this.

[mick_jagger]

Hahhaa sorry, but it's prophet, not profit. But yeah good post.

My mistake. I knew something looked wrong about that. Haha.

[chipdip18]

My mistake. I knew something looked wrong about that. Haha.

It's understandable haha, but it made me laugh aloud.

[mick_jagger]

It's understandable haha, but it made me laugh aloud.

I bet it did. Haha. Or maybe I'm trying to start a new scam involving "Jesus", "Abraham Lincoln", and "profit". Hidden messages. Haha.

[hours_of_wealth]

ever heard of Darkthrone? they promote good Christian morals and make enjoyable music.

[chipdip18]

I bet it did. Haha. Or maybe I'm trying to start a new scam involving "Jesus", "Abraham Lincoln", and "profit". Hidden messages. Haha.

Hahahah now that's a scam i'd buy into.

[mick_jagger]

Hahahah now that's a scam i'd buy into.

Yeah. It will most likely involve American-made bread, seeing as the bread industry is thriving in this economy. Haha.

[3eb23]

Technically you can't not believe in Jesus because he was a real person. It's sort of like saying you don't believe in Abraham Lincoln. My friend tried to say he didn't believe in Jesus too. You can, however, say that you don't believe in God, as there is no physical proof that God existed. I'm not saying Jesus could do all the magic stuff the bible claims he could, and I myself am an agnostic, but he was a real person who was crucified, as were others at the time, he was just one of the main spreaders of Christianity at the time and the people viewed him as a profit, which is why he is bigger than others who also spread Christian ideals. It's still good that you respect their views though.

prove it. ;-)

[FailedRepublic]

prove it. ;-)

*gaspalicious!* He never said Jesus Christ, so it could have been hey-zeus xP

I don't think there's much doubt that he was a real person, just that he was some miracle working witch doctor.

[VampiresRevenge]

prove it. ;-)
He thought, therefore he was.

[FailedRepublic]

Therefore the majority of the American public is not?

Couldn't resist xD

[VampiresRevenge]

Therefore the majority of the American public is not?

Couldn't resist xD
Haha! This is very true.

[3eb23]

no really. i think there is plenty of doubt of his existence. besides the new testament, i've heard of only a few instances that he has even been mentioned by historians that lived during his era.

[chipdip18]

no really. i think there is plenty of doubt of his existence. besides the new testament, i've heard of only a few instances that he has even been mentioned by historians that lived during his era.

I thought it was accepted by historians that he did exist actually.

[VampiresRevenge]

I thought it was accepted by historians that he did exist actually.
Me, too.

[FailedRepublic]

I'm pretty sure you're right, chipdip.
But then again, people thought the world was flat for 100s of years.
But I'm no one to judge :)

[mick_jagger]

prove it. ;-)

The bible, aside from being a religious reference, is also a very reliable historical source. While it does contain fictional events that have been disproved by science, a lot of the people listed in the bible were real. If that is not proof enough for you, Flavius Josephus, a Jewish historian of the time, and Carius Cornelius Tacticus, a Roman historian of the time both mention Jesus is some of their works. I believe my 6th grade history teacher told us that Jesus wasn't Jesus Christ, but Christus. I think he took that as his surname when he became of Christian, so if that's the case, his real last name wouldn't be known.

[3eb23]

I thought it was accepted by historians that he did exist actually.

you know i'm not really sure man. i know that historians these days attest to his existence. but for those that actually lived in his lifetime, i haven't seen much documentation or mention. obviously i need to do more research, as we all do, but to my current knowledge that's what i know.

[FailedRepublic]

You know who does exist? Jesus H. Christ - Vampire Slayer. Now that's a sexy man

[3eb23]

The bible, aside from being a religious reference, is also a very reliable historical source. While it does contain fictional events that have been disproved by science, a lot of the people listed in the bible were real. If that is not proof enough for you, Flavius Josephus, a Jewish historian of the time, and Carius Cornelius Tacticus, a Roman historian of the time both mention Jesus is some of their works. I believe my 6th grade history teacher told us that Jesus wasn't Jesus Christ, but Christus. I think he took that as his surname when he became of Christian, so if that's the case, his real last name wouldn't be known.

There is much debate on the validity of Josephus's accounts of Jesus. It very well could have been the church's attempt to cross reference his life if anyone questioned. Supposedly the historian Philo lived near Jerusalem during Jesus' life and chronicled the lives of the Judeans, yet he doesn't mention him. :shrug:

[FailedRepublic]

Honestly, I doubt we're going to know until:
a) Time Travel
b) Some for-sure document
c) It turns out that all atheists are wrong (damn us non-believers) and the second coming actually happens

[VampiresRevenge]

Honestly, I doubt we're going to know until:
a) Time Travel
b) Some for-sure document
c) It turns out that all atheists are wrong (damn us non-believers) and the second coming actually happens
Pretty sure that this isn't going to happen, but you never know.

[mick_jagger]

There is much debate on the validity of Josephus's accounts of Jesus. It very well could have been the church's attempt to cross reference his life if anyone questioned. Supposedly the historian Philo lived near Jerusalem during Jesus' life and chronicled the lives of the Judeans, yet he doesn't mention him. :shrug:

Ah, the wonders of Google. So much information. Haha. But why would Josephus, a Jew, mention Jesus if the Jews viewed him as a false prophet?

[FailedRepublic]

Pretty sure that this isn't going to happen, but you never know.
errr You did catch the sarcasm in that didn't you?

[VampiresRevenge]

errr You did catch the sarcasm in that didn't you?
Maybe...

[3eb23]

Ah, the wonders of Google. So much information. Haha. But why would Josephus, a Jew, mention Jesus if the Jews viewed him as a false prophet?

Haha indeed the wonders of google. I actually got this information from a couple books I read awhile back and I was like hmmm let's see if google says anything about this. I had looked up the Josephus thing before you even mentioned it because I remember that argument from awhile back haha. But yeah really, I don't know man. I'm just trying to learn like you are.

[3eb23]

This is from wikipedia, obviously not the most reliable source but at least it can spark thought and more research:

The following passage appears in the Greek version of Antiquities of the Jews 18.63-64, in the translation of William Whiston (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Whiston):
3.3 Now there was about this time Jesus, a wise man, if it be lawful to call him a man; for he was a doer of wonderful works, a teacher of such men as receive the truth with pleasure. He drew over to him both many of the Jews and many of the Gentiles. He was [the] Christ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christ). And when Pilate (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pontius_Pilate), at the suggestion of the principal men amongst us, had condemned him to the cross (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crucifixion), those that loved him at the first did not forsake him; for he appeared to them alive again the third day; as the divine prophets had foretold these and ten thousand other wonderful things concerning him. And the tribe of Christians, so named from him, are not extinct at this day.

[FailedRepublic]

Well that could be interpreted as he was still alive three days after being crucified, and it never says he worked magic. Just that he taught great things.

[mick_jagger]

Haha indeed the wonders of google. I actually got this information from a couple books I read awhile back and I was like hmmm let's see if google says anything about this. I had looked up the Josephus thing before you even mentioned it because I remember that argument from awhile back haha. But yeah really, I don't know man. I'm just trying to learn like you are.

Yeah. I guess until someone finds some hard evidence or builds a time machine, we'll never know.

Speaking of Jesus and time machines...

One of the only decent Mad TV skits.
GIiFGMYpLUc

[3eb23]

the why would he say "appeared to them live again"?

[FailedRepublic]

He could have appeared to be dead, then received a burst of adrenaline or something along those lines

[VampiresRevenge]

Well that could be interpreted as he was still alive three days after being crucified, and it never says he worked magic. Just that he taught great things.
This. The Bible is filled with metaphors that people take seriously. It says something like "he gave the blind sight," which really means that he gave them spiritual guidance. People think that he gave the blind literal sight, and that he's some miracle worker.

[3eb23]

This. The Bible is filled with metaphors that people take seriously. It says something like "he gave the blind sight," which really means that he gave them spiritual guidance. People think that he gave the blind literal sight, and that he's some miracle worker.

the text quoted was not from the Bible, it was supposedly from a historian. i always thought historians were supposed to document facts.

[VampiresRevenge]

the text quoted was not from the Bible, it was from a historian. i always thought historians were supposed to document facts.
Haha, my bad. I got confused.

So did I.

[3eb23]

it's cool. but yeah what you said about the Bible is the way I see fit to read it.

[FailedRepublic]

Wait.....historians document HISTORY?! Well fuck this changes everything :P

[fly_guy]

Anyone hear about Showbread? Ick, they suck

[3eb23]

Wait.....historians document HISTORY?! Well fuck this changes everything :P

hahaha i thought they were supposed to! but hey "History is the lie commonly agreed upon."

[VampiresRevenge]

it's cool. but yeah what you said about the Bible is the way I see fit to read it.
I wish everyone would read it like that, and use some common sense.
Wait.....historians document HISTORY?! Well fuck this changes everything :P
Haha, I know.

[FailedRepublic]

Yeah and here I was thinking that it was FOX telling the facts, my life is so screwed now

[oncedarkness]

This. The Bible is filled with metaphors that people take seriously. It says something like "he gave the blind sight," which really means that he gave them spiritual guidance. People think that he gave the blind literal sight, and that he's some miracle worker.
The thing is, the Bible does document that he gave the blind literal sight. It is true though, there are many many metaphors in the Bible. When it says "he gave the blind sight," it could be spiritual guidance, but all I'm saying is that other verses record Jesus doing real miracle-working that cannot be interpreted metaphorically if you believe what is written there.

[ForeverDelayed]

I went through a phase where I pretty much listened to nothing but Christian rock. I was told all this secular rock I liked was evil, and that music was supposed to praise Jesus first and foremost. The problem with that is when you have an agenda such as preaching, the overall quality of the music tends to come in second. After a while I got so burnt out on all these shitty bands singing about God but having little to no skill on their instruments or songwriting. I started listening to more fringe Christian bands, the kinds that would say in interviews they were Christians in a band but not a Christian band, and sometimes say controversial things like a bad word or talk about drinking or sex or something. After a while I got bored with that and moved on to all of those bands who were firmly in the mainstream but were Christians. Then I got bored with the whole thing and gave up. These days there's a handful of "Christian" bands I can still listen to, but the vast majority of Christian music depresses me and makes me feel naseous. Chances are most of the ones I can still tolerate no one here has ever heard of. Oh well.

[_Andrew]

I went through a phase where I pretty much listened to nothing but Christian rock. I was told all this secular rock I liked was evil, and that music was supposed to praise Jesus first and foremost. The problem with that is when you have an agenda such as preaching, the overall quality of the music tends to come in second. After a while I got so burnt out on all these shitty bands singing about God but having little to no skill on their instruments or songwriting. I started listening to more fringe Christian bands, the kinds that would say in interviews they were Christians in a band but not a Christian band, and sometimes say controversial things like a bad word or talk about drinking or sex or something. After a while I got bored with that and moved on to all of those bands who were firmly in the mainstream but were Christians. Then I got bored with the whole thing and gave up. These days there's a handful of "Christian" bands I can still listen to, but the vast majority of Christian music depresses me and makes me feel naseous. Chances are most of the ones I can still tolerate no one here has ever heard of. Oh well.

can you name some? I'm curious...

[xashkox]

i think that as a general rule, any band that labels itself anything pretty much sucks. this is particularly true when it comes to Christian bands. Those bands who may have Christian members or include Christian overtones in their lyrics, but do not tout themselves as a "Christian band" are the ones that I like the most. This includes bands like mewithoutYou, Mute Math, Anberlin, The Classic Crime, and This Day and Age.

[porttheman]

As long as the music is good,i dont care what you believe or dont believe in.

[FailedRepublic]

As long as the music is good,i dont care what you believe or dont believe in.
This is true, but unfortunately a whole lot of Christian Rock is completely terrible, as has been stated by pretty much everyone in this thread.

[DejaNew]

Most Christian music just sucks (tooth and nail).

I enjoy some christian bands though, 16 Horsepower are great.
You're kidding right, tooth and nail has put out a shitload of amazing christian rock albums. For example, MxPx, The Juliana Theory, MeWithoutYou to name a few.

[nikaidoh]

If you are talking about worship music then I see what your point is. To be honest, the artists making worship music are catering to a specific market and are not really looking at innovating their respective genre's, they are more looking for music that is powerful and can influence a congregation on a Sunday. Sometimes even those bands (David Crowder Band) will try and go against the grain and make some music that is more innovative than the traditional worship fare.

Other bands that specifically make music to bring people closer to Jesus can be innovative. Zao's earlier music pioneered some forms of hardcore, and after Dan joined the band as the vocalist, they broke out of the conventional bounds of heavy music, and his vocal pattern has been attempted to be copied several times over, but no one has even come close. Living Sacrifice has always had straightforward lyrics about Jesus and they have helped to shape the landscape of heavier styles of music. Bless the Martyr, Kiss the Child by Norma Jean is another record that comes to mind.

House Of Heroes record is one that is held in high esteem by Christian and non-Christian audiences, mewithoutYou, while not specifically Christian, has lyrical themes and stories taken directly from the Bible and they are just as influential as any band out there making music today. There is more innovation in Christian music than it gets credit for.

This is true, I'll concede that I haven't listened to many bands that are openly Christian simply because of my own beliefs: Christian members or a Christian message is kind of a turn off for me, probably unnecessarily, considering most of those bands actually end up being pretty great. I get what you're saying.

I completely agree, that's like saying that Avenged Sevenfold is a christian band. Personally, I try to stay away from Christian things, because I'm a bit of a religiphobe (not a word but oh well). It's pretty much because the town I live in is filled with baptists who try to shove the bible up your ass at any opportunity.

Yeah, I feel you. I've lived with Christians most of my life, and it starts to get pretty fucking annoying after the nth time of hearing about Jesus being my saviour.

[Regards]

If you don't hold the Bible up to the same historical scope you hold up other historical texts then you may as well disregard history as a whole. Historians have held it to the exact same standards ands it's stood the tests, heck, it's proabably been held up to even higher standards and its still regarded as historically sound.

[batmannj]

This is true, I'll concede that I haven't listened to many bands that are openly Christian simply because of my own beliefs: Christian members or a Christian message is kind of a turn off for me, probably unnecessarily, considering most of those bands actually end up being pretty great. I get what you're saying.



Yeah, I feel you. I've lived with Christians most of my life, and it starts to get pretty fucking annoying after the nth time of hearing about Jesus being my saviour.
And that is totally cool man. I just don't like it when some people say that they are all the same, and while lyrically that can be true, there are some bands out there that are doing different stuff.

I understand the message being a turn-off, because I don't really find Bill Maher that funny, but then again, I totally disagree with him on certain subjects. Not saying he is bad, but sometimes too, I can totally relate the difference between liking Christian bands and not liking them. There is nothing wrong with not listening to something that is not what you believe, and I totally understand that.
If you don't hold the Bible up to the same historical scope you hold up other historical texts then you may as well disregard history as a whole. Historians have held it to the exact same standards ands it's stood the tests, heck, it's proabably been held up to even higher standards and its still regarded as historically sound.
Yeah, I agree with you here. Back there when they were talking about doing Google searches on stuff I groaned. Once they get to college and realize if they want to write a research paper and they can't use internet sources they won't know what to do. If they want to research what all this stuff is about they need to go to the library and look up some real texts before they can say that the Bible is not that historically accurate.

[bard]

Yeah, I agree with you here. Back there when they were talking about doing Google searches on stuff I groaned. Once they get to college and realize if they want to write a research paper and they can't use internet sources they won't know what to do. If they want to research what all this stuff is about they need to go to the library and look up some real texts before they can say that the Bible is not that historically accurate.

lol yeah, so true

[xJesusFreakx]

There is much debate on the validity of Josephus's accounts of Jesus. It very well could have been the church's attempt to cross reference his life if anyone questioned. Supposedly the historian Philo lived near Jerusalem during Jesus' life and chronicled the lives of the Judeans, yet he doesn't mention him. :shrug:

From what I've seen, it's generally accepted that the church changed the passage to be more positive about Christ, but there was still something about Him in the original.

As for the main topic... I don't mind Christian rock at all (the cheesy stuff from the 90s was the bomb!), but I'm a Christian, so I can relate to the lyrics much more easily. On the other hand, there are bands I like that have lyrics I disagree with, but I still like their music. Really, if the music is good enough, you should be able to appreciate the band as a whole. (Sadly, so many Christian bands today don't fall into that category, but to assume this is true for them all is like turning on the radio and, ten minutes later, deciding that good rap doesn't exist.)

[mybreakingpoint]

i don't care for most bands who label themselves "Christian" bands, but there are a few winners.

http://myspace.com/yourbestfriend

one of the best up-and-coming bands around right now. they're a Christian band, but not a "gottamakesureveryoneintheworldknows it" kind of band.

http://myspace.com/regulatethechemicals

Christ Staples of Discover America before DA. just fucking great pop rock, you wouldn't really know they were a Christian band either unless you knew they were on T&N.

http://myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke

Some beautifully written, incredible music. Lyrically, they are pretty Christian, but they're not nearly as generic as 95% of the Christian rock scene.

http://myspace.com/relientk

The most obvious example of an awesome Christian band, imo. They've put out some of the best pop rock & pop-punk albums of the last 10 years. Always consistent, always fun, always clever, and never over-the-top.

http://myspace.com/terminal

Their lone album "How The Lonely Keep" is still one of my favorite records. They're not blatantly Christian, but the members are Christian & they were on a Christian label. Their record is still such a fun record to sing along to & jam along with.

http://myspace.com/deasvail

Some of the most beautiful vocals I've heard since the first time I heard Aaron Marsh. This guy might even be better than him. Maybe. Regardless, he's very good, and these guys write some very chill, relaxing, beautiful music, and the Christian overtones of some of their songs are not overbearing, in my opinion.

http://myspace.com/copeland

I don't know if they've ever come right out and said "We are a Christian band", but they've always had a Christian overtone to their music, and they are some classy guys for sure, and apparently they were Christian enough to be signed by Tooth & Nail, which typically always automatically labels you a Christian band (which some bands apparently don't appreciate, see: Mae). I don't care if these guys were a straight Up Praise & Worship band though, they write some of the most gorgeous, awesome music I've ever heard, so they could sing about whatever the hell they wanted & I'd still love them.


http://myspace.com/mewithoutYou

Nothing needs to be said; they're just that good.


Anyway, typically, I hate most Christian rock bands because they're so ridiculously predictable. Most Christian bands are walking definitions of "generic", but you can't generalize and assume all Christian bands are generic and terrible just because most of them are. Not all of them are, and I think those^ bands, at least in my opinion, prove that.

[nikaidoh]

And that is totally cool man. I just don't like it when some people say that they are all the same, and while lyrically that can be true, there are some bands out there that are doing different stuff.

I understand the message being a turn-off, because I don't really find Bill Maher that funny, but then again, I totally disagree with him on certain subjects. Not saying he is bad, but sometimes too, I can totally relate the difference between liking Christian bands and not liking them. There is nothing wrong with not listening to something that is not what you believe, and I totally understand that.



Bill Maher is so self-righteous it's unbearable. He's rarely funny.

[rising_tied]

Technically you can't not believe in Jesus because he was a real person. It's sort of like saying you don't believe in Abraham Lincoln. My friend tried to say he didn't believe in Jesus too. You can, however, say that you don't believe in God, as there is no physical proof that God existed. I'm not saying Jesus could do all the magic stuff the bible claims he could, and I myself am an agnostic, but he was a real person who was crucified, as were others at the time, he was just one of the main spreaders of Christianity at the time and the people viewed him as a profit, which is why he is bigger than others who also spread Christian ideals. It's still good that you respect their views though.
People see evidence that he was real but I do not. This is just what I Believe. I know its far from what others believe, but I do not call myself agnostic or atheist. I just rather not pay religion any mind. I worded that wrong. I rather not worship or believe in anything because I do not feel the need to look up to anyone. We should know good when we see good. But my situation is weird because I am REALLY interested in other peoples religions and cultures and I like learning about it. Im not one of those A-Holes that just wnats to hear about someones religion so I can shoot them down and be like YOU BELIEVE THAT??? WHAT?, but because its something of interest to me.

[imahoodlum]

http://myspace.com/terminal

Their lone album "How The Lonely Keep" is still one of my favorite records. They're not blatantly Christian, but the members are Christian & they were on a Christian label. Their record is still such a fun record to sing along to & jam along with.

Yes, Terminal is good. I remember they had a picture of one of the guys in the band with a cigarette in his hand on their myspace and everybody was appalled because it "wasn't a very Christian like thing to do" (according to some of the comments left).

[mybreakingpoint]

Yes, Terminal is good. I remember they had a picture of one of the guys in the band with a cigarette in his hand on their myspace and everybody was appalled because it "wasn't a very Christian like thing to do" (according to some of the comments left).

hahahaha wow, really? i'd like someone to point out in the bible for me where it says smoking cigarettes is against God.

that's so stupid hahaha wow.

[Regards]

www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke (http://www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke) <-- Cool Hand Luke's real myspace. The one you posted was not.

edit: That came off very cold when is wasn't meant to. Good band though.

[mybreakingpoint]

www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke (http://www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke) <-- Cool Hand Luke's real myspace. The one you posted was not.

edit: That came off very cold when is wasn't meant to. Good band though.

haha my bad. i figured since they've been a bad for so long that they were able to get the URL before someone else did, so i posted it without checking lol

my bad haha

[JunBringer]

I enjoy some:

Skillet
Orange County Supertones
Five Iron Frenzy
Slick Shoes
MxPx (old)

[3eb23]

http://www.myspace.com/sleepingatlast

this is a Christian band I can completely get behind

[mybreakingpoint]

i forgot that sleeping at last are christian. they're good.

[bard]

http://wwww.myspace.com/zaoonline

best metal band ever

[mht]

jesus lovers:

Ljgjr0i03cg

[VampiresRevenge]

The thing is, the Bible does document that he gave the blind literal sight. It is true though, there are many many metaphors in the Bible. When it says "he gave the blind sight," it could be spiritual guidance, but all I'm saying is that other verses record Jesus doing real miracle-working that cannot be interpreted metaphorically if you believe what is written there.
Exactly.

[Phish724]

If you are talking about worship music then I see what your point is. To be honest, the artists making worship music are catering to a specific market and are not really looking at innovating their respective genre's, they are more looking for music that is powerful and can influence a congregation on a Sunday.
QFT

http://www.myspace.com/sleepingatlast

this is a Christian band I can completely get behind

very good band

[Fin.]

There's plenty of good christian artists. Some examples are:

Sufjan Stevens, Anathallo, mewithoutYou, Life In Your Way, Hands, Further Seems Forever, Zao, Strongarm, Cool Hand Luke, Copeland, Deas Vail, Five O'Clock People, Burlap To Cashmere, Derek Webb, Steven Delopoulos, Damien Jurado, The Danielson Famile, Mute Math, Woven Hand, Waterdeep, Over The Rhine, Aaron Sprinkle, etc.

[starsonblack]

Do I run away screaming when I find out that its a Xian band? Nah.
Do I go out looking for them? Nah.
I think its just a stupid to avoid a band because its a Christian band~ than to avoid one if its a straightedge band~
I'm strong enough in my own beliefs that I don't care if the band tries to push their own on me. And if they're good, why would I care?

[xJesusFreakx]

jesus lovers:

Ljgjr0i03cg

Not gonna lie... I love those guys. They've played little shows here in Beaver County, and it's always a good time. Also, that video is so hilarious. I know that any slight scene points I ever had in my life are being wiped out with this post, but I don't care.

[.jm]

There's plenty of good christian artists. Some examples are:

Sufjan Stevens, Anathallo, mewithoutYou, Life In Your Way, Hands, Further Seems Forever, Zao, Strongarm, Cool Hand Luke, Copeland, Deas Vail, Five O'Clock People, Burlap To Cashmere, Derek Webb, Steven Delopoulos, Damien Jurado, The Danielson Famile, Mute Math, Woven Hand, Waterdeep, Over The Rhine, Aaron Sprinkle, etc.

The band you have on your picture kicks any of those band's ass

[handlikesecret]

it's such an ambiguous term, it's hard to really talk about it.

[nikaidoh]

Do I run away screaming when I find out that its a Xian band? Nah.
Do I go out looking for them? Nah.
I think its just a stupid to avoid a band because its a Christian band~ than to avoid one if its a straightedge band~
I'm strong enough in my own beliefs that I don't care if the band tries to push their own on me. And if they're good, why would I care?

There's plenty of good christian artists. Some examples are:

Sufjan Stevens, Anathallo, mewithoutYou, Life In Your Way, Hands, Further Seems Forever, Zao, Strongarm, Cool Hand Luke, Copeland, Deas Vail, Five O'Clock People, Burlap To Cashmere, Derek Webb, Steven Delopoulos, Damien Jurado, The Danielson Famile, Mute Math, Woven Hand, Waterdeep, Over The Rhine, Aaron Sprinkle, etc.


The artists Fin listed are pretty kickass.

But what I don't understand is what defines a Christian artist. I mean, does it mean religiously that the artist as a person is a Christian? Or does it mean that the music they make is based mainly in Christianity? Because with Stevens, Jurado, and OTR they are Christians personally, but I don't think the purpose of their music is to spread the word of Christianity, it's just because they happen to be Christian, and so that shows up in their music. But bands that's sole purpose is to spread the word is Christianity is a turn off to me simply because the music that is usually associated with it is usually bland and generic.

[Fin.]

The artists Fin listed are pretty kickass.

But what I don't understand is what defines a Christian artist. I mean, does it mean religiously that the artist as a person is a Christian? Or does it mean that the music they make is based mainly in Christianity? Because with Stevens, Jurado, and OTR they are Christians personally, but I don't think the purpose of their music is to spread the word of Christianity, it's just because they happen to be Christian, and so that shows up in their music. But bands that's sole purpose is to spread the word is Christianity is a turn off to me simply because the music that is usually associated with it is usually bland and generic.


I guess it just depends. Alot of "christian bands" won't call themselves that because they are not a "ministry band". They say they are christians who are in a band. Some have used the example that you don't call a christian who is a plumber a "christian plumber", so why is it different for musicians? I have thought about your question numerous times considering I used to run a "christian music" website. I guess any artist who has very blatant christian lyrics would definitely be a christian artist, but I'm not sure where the line is drawn to where an artist who is a christian is no longer a "christian artist".

[imahoodlum]

hahahaha wow, really? i'd like someone to point out in the bible for me where it says smoking cigarettes is against God.

that's so stupid hahaha wow.
I know. I was taken back at the fact that people were genuinely mad at that. It's kind sucks because they want to openly be Christians but if someone does one thing that's not acceptable or slip up, people get upset and freak out about it.

[nkalldayyy]

http://www.myspace.com/theghostinside

i'm obsessed.

[anthonydarko]

Mosh 4 Jeezuz!

[11:11]

Relient K anyone?

[acfrue]

I hate that people judge bands on if they're "Christian", like some of my friends will listen to music, like it and then when they find out they're a "Christian" band they hate them.

On that note I dig Relient K, Paramore (theyre all fairly religious but never actually claim to be a "Christian" band), Family Force 5, Hawk Nelson, Anberlin, The Almost, some UnderØath and I'm sure there are plenty of other bands too that I forgot.

[ForeverDelayed]

can you name some? I'm curious...
Christian bands I still like? Sure...


The Violet Burning - www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork (http://www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork)

Cool Hand Luke - www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke (http://www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke) (their old stuff is a very different, and IMO better, but they're still making decent music)

Derek Webb - www.myspace.com/derekwebb (http://www.myspace.com/derekwebb)

Caedmon's Call - www.myspace.com/caedmonscall (http://www.myspace.com/caedmonscall) (probably the preachiest sounding band I listen to, I'm not sure why but their music touches me, even if I no longer believe in the things they're singing about)

Starflyer 59 - www.myspace.com/starflyer59 (http://www.myspace.com/starflyer59)

Aaron Sprinkle - www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle (http://www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle) (he was in a band called Poor Old Lu that was quite good as well. His brother Jesse has done a few projects, including The World Inside, and drumming for a ton of bands)

[mick_jagger]

Creed...

[thesafeword]

Christian bands I still like? Sure...


The Violet Burning - www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork (http://www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork)

Cool Hand Luke - www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke (http://www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke) (their old stuff is a very different, and IMO better, but they're still making decent music)

Derek Webb - www.myspace.com/derekwebb (http://www.myspace.com/derekwebb)

Caedmon's Call - www.myspace.com/caedmonscall (http://www.myspace.com/caedmonscall) (probably the preachiest sounding band I listen to, I'm not sure why but their music touches me, even if I no longer believe in the things they're singing about)

Starflyer 59 - www.myspace.com/starflyer59 (http://www.myspace.com/starflyer59)

Aaron Sprinkle - www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle (http://www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle) (he was in a band called Poor Old Lu that was quite good as well. His brother Jesse has done a few projects, including The World Inside, and drumming for a ton of bands)
What's cooler than Christian rock? Everything. Christian rock bands that nobody's heard of! Sweet brag man.

[_Andrew]

Christian bands I still like? Sure...


The Violet Burning - www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork (http://www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork)

Cool Hand Luke - www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke (http://www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke) (their old stuff is a very different, and IMO better, but they're still making decent music)

Derek Webb - www.myspace.com/derekwebb (http://www.myspace.com/derekwebb)

Caedmon's Call - www.myspace.com/caedmonscall (http://www.myspace.com/caedmonscall) (probably the preachiest sounding band I listen to, I'm not sure why but their music touches me, even if I no longer believe in the things they're singing about)

Starflyer 59 - www.myspace.com/starflyer59 (http://www.myspace.com/starflyer59)

Aaron Sprinkle - www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle (http://www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle) (he was in a band called Poor Old Lu that was quite good as well. His brother Jesse has done a few projects, including The World Inside, and drumming for a ton of bands)

Out of all the bands you've listed, I'm only familiar with Cool Hand Luke, which I believe... are awesome!

[mybreakingpoint]

What's cooler than Christian rock? Everything. Christian rock bands that nobody's heard of! Sweet brag man.

Christian bands I still like? Sure...


The Violet Burning - www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork (http://www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork)

Cool Hand Luke - www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke (http://www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke) (their old stuff is a very different, and IMO better, but they're still making decent music)

Derek Webb - www.myspace.com/derekwebb (http://www.myspace.com/derekwebb)

Caedmon's Call - www.myspace.com/caedmonscall (http://www.myspace.com/caedmonscall) (probably the preachiest sounding band I listen to, I'm not sure why but their music touches me, even if I no longer believe in the things they're singing about)

Starflyer 59 - www.myspace.com/starflyer59 (http://www.myspace.com/starflyer59)

Aaron Sprinkle - www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle (http://www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle) (he was in a band called Poor Old Lu that was quite good as well. His brother Jesse has done a few projects, including The World Inside, and drumming for a ton of bands)

haha i know the violet burning, cool hand luke, starflyer 59, and aaron sprinkle. :shrug:

i don't think he was trying to just choose bands no one's heard of; in fact, cool hand luke was mentioned 2 or 3 times before his post.

[Regards]

What's cooler than Christian rock? Everything. Christian rock bands that nobody's heard of! Sweet brag man.
Those are all pretty well known artists.

[batmannj]

lol yeah, so true
yeah its a rude awakening lol
Bill Maher is so self-righteous it's unbearable. He's rarely funny.
Agreed.
http://wwww.myspace.com/zaoonline

best metal band ever
Their new album drops May 5th!! I am stoked for that.

[batmannj]

What's cooler than Christian rock? Everything. Christian rock bands that nobody's heard of! Sweet brag man.
Whats more ignorant that just about all of you posts? nothing.

[batmannj]

Christian bands I still like? Sure...


The Violet Burning - www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork (http://www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork)

Cool Hand Luke - www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke (http://www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke) (their old stuff is a very different, and IMO better, but they're still making decent music)

Derek Webb - www.myspace.com/derekwebb (http://www.myspace.com/derekwebb)

Caedmon's Call - www.myspace.com/caedmonscall (http://www.myspace.com/caedmonscall) (probably the preachiest sounding band I listen to, I'm not sure why but their music touches me, even if I no longer believe in the things they're singing about)

Starflyer 59 - www.myspace.com/starflyer59 (http://www.myspace.com/starflyer59)

Aaron Sprinkle - www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle (http://www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle) (he was in a band called Poor Old Lu that was quite good as well. His brother Jesse has done a few projects, including The World Inside, and drumming for a ton of bands)
I love Starflyer, they have been making solid albums since the 90s.

[Regards]

www.myspace.com/jonforeman (http://www.myspace.com/jonforeman) <-- Also excellent.

[Colorblind!]

What's cooler than Christian rock? Everything. Christian rock bands that nobody's heard of! Sweet brag man.

That's really dumb as all of those bands are/were fairly popular. Thanks for coming out.

[Colorblind!]

Good christian artists I can think of at the moment:

www.myspace.com/anathallo (http://www.myspace.com/anathallo)
www.myspace.com/saxonshore (http://www.myspace.com/saxonshore)
www.myspace.com/ascitiesburn (http://www.myspace.com/ascitiesburn)
www.myspace.com/derekwebb (http://www.myspace.com/derekwebb)
www.myspace.com/jonforeman (http://www.myspace.com/jonforeman)
www.myspace.com/myepic (http://www.myspace.com/myepic)
www.myspace.com/lifestorymonologue (http://www.myspace.com/lifestorymonologue)
www.myspace.com/saintsneversurrender (http://www.myspace.com/saintsneversurrender)
www.myspace.com/mewithoutyou (http://www.myspace.com/mewithoutyou)
www.myspace.com/takeitbackar (http://www.myspace.com/takeitbackar)
www.myspace.com/wrenchintheworks (http://www.myspace.com/wrenchintheworks)
www.myspace.com/adventnc (http://www.myspace.com/adventnc)
www.myspace.com/dustinkensrue (http://www.myspace.com/dustinkensrue)

There's some bands that I enjoy.

[mht]

how the fuck is saxon shore a "christian" artist....they don't even have words in their music.....

you can tell they bible thump based upon certain guitar tones or....?

[Charles777]

The Wedding. (http://www.purevolume.com/thewedding)

[bard]

how the fuck is saxon shore a "christian" artist....they don't even have words in their music.....

you can tell they bible thump based upon certain guitar tones or....?
you moron, if they are christians in a band, than they are a christian band.

either way, just pay attention to the music, not the band members

[Charles777]

Christian bands I still like? Sure...


The Violet Burning - www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork (http://www.myspace.com/thevioletburningnetwork)

Cool Hand Luke - www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke (http://www.myspace.com/therealcoolhandluke) (their old stuff is a very different, and IMO better, but they're still making decent music)

Derek Webb - www.myspace.com/derekwebb (http://www.myspace.com/derekwebb)

Caedmon's Call - www.myspace.com/caedmonscall (http://www.myspace.com/caedmonscall) (probably the preachiest sounding band I listen to, I'm not sure why but their music touches me, even if I no longer believe in the things they're singing about)

Starflyer 59 - www.myspace.com/starflyer59 (http://www.myspace.com/starflyer59)

Aaron Sprinkle - www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle (http://www.myspace.com/aaronsprinkle) (he was in a band called Poor Old Lu that was quite good as well. His brother Jesse has done a few projects, including The World Inside, and drumming for a ton of bands)
Aaron Sprinkle produced The Almosts album too. I'm pretty sure he's doing the next one also

[Colorblind!]

how the fuck is saxon shore a "christian" artist....they don't even have words in their music.....

you can tell they bible thump based upon certain guitar tones or....?

Sorry, christians in a band that play at christian festivals.
my bad.

[mht]

you moron, if they are christians in a band, than they are a christian band.

either way, just pay attention to the music, not the band members


this is the worst logic i have ever heard.


there are straight edge guys in Converge, by your stupidity that makes their band a straight edge band.


personal beliefs don't always reflect musical ideals MORON. especially when you music has NO FUCKING LYRICS to determine that.

[Here It Goes]

I don't understand the term "Christian rock". If someone really wanted to imitate Jesus Christ and the way he lived, they wouldn't put themselves in the kind of atmosphere that a rock concert provides. They probably would also be more familiar with the scripture at 1 Corinthians 11:14, which clearly states that it is dishonorable for a man to have long hair. Wonder how Underoath keeps missing that one on their tour bus Bible study sessions.

[Colorblind!]

this is the worst logic i have ever heard.


there are straight edge guys in Converge, by your stupidity that makes their band a straight edge band.


personal beliefs don't always reflect musical ideals MORON. especially when you music has NO FUCKING LYRICS to determine that.

You are over analyzing this so much.
I can go back and edit my post to say " here are some bands I like that are composed of christians, play at christian festivals, and are usually associated with the label of a christian band" if you would prefer?

When making that list, I was thinking more along the lines of bands that I know are christians, not so much the music that they make. I'm aware they have no lyrics, I have listened to the band before believe it or not.

[bard]

this is the worst logic i have ever heard.


there are straight edge guys in Converge, by your stupidity that makes their band a straight edge band.


personal beliefs don't always reflect musical ideals MORON. especially when you music has NO FUCKING LYRICS to determine that.
if you would've paid attention to this thread, you would've known that i don't agree with that logic. i was just explaining the theory to you why they're called a christian band.

i agree that putting the band members religion in front of -band or -genre is retarded

[Colorblind!]

I don't understand the term "Christian rock". If someone really wanted to imitate Jesus Christ and the way he lived, they wouldn't put themselves in the kind of atmosphere that a rock concert provides. They probably would also be more familiar with the scripture at 1 Corinthians 11:14, which clearly states that it is dishonorable for a man to have long hair. Wonder how Underoath keeps missing that one on their tour bus Bible study sessions.

How does the "rock concert" atmosphere go against Jesus' teachings? I'm just curious.
I knew the long hair thing at one point, but it was a cultural issue of their day and not relevant today. I think it had something to do with Jewish law at the time, but that wasn't one of Jesus' teachings. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[bard]

if anything, christian bands SHOULD be at bigger secular concerts. jesus said that believers didn't need him around, non-believers did.

[Colorblind!]

Correct. And if you're going to say that it's a sinful environment or something, Jesus hung out with prostitutes and tax collectors which weren't necessarily the saints of society.
Why would Jesus or his followers just want to congregate amongst themselves? How would anything spread? Which is why bands exist without the stupid "christian" label: So they can reach certain people without already having a bias against them.

[Regards]

I don't understand the term "Christian rock". If someone really wanted to imitate Jesus Christ and the way he lived, they wouldn't put themselves in the kind of atmosphere that a rock concert provides. They probably would also be more familiar with the scripture at 1 Corinthians 11:14, which clearly states that it is dishonorable for a man to have long hair. Wonder how Underoath keeps missing that one on their tour bus Bible study sessions.
lol, classic case of taking scripture wayyyy out of context. Read the whole chapter before you start assuming stuff like that.

[cscwell107]

Some of my favorite bands are christian bands.

[ForeverDelayed]

What's cooler than Christian rock? Everything. Christian rock bands that nobody's heard of! Sweet brag man.
How exactly was that bragging in any way? In my first post I said there are only a handful of Christian bands I still listen to. Someone asked me to name a few, so I did. Don't you have better things to do with your time?

[Zummy]

I think should be a Christian extravaganza where all the good Christian bands play together and rock out. Like an all day thing but with no group prayer.

[eraserhead]

Christian rock concerts are some of the preachiest, most annoying spectacles I've ever witnessed. Shut up and play a song for fuck's sake, I came to hear music not a church sermon.

[Colorblind!]

I think should be a Christian extravaganza where all the good Christian bands play together and rock out. Like an all day thing but with no group prayer.

This is called a christian festival.
There's only hundreds of giant ones scattered throughout our continent.

[Colorblind!]

Christian rock concerts are some of the preachiest, most annoying spectacles I've ever witnessed. Shut up and play a song for fuck's sake, I came to hear music not a church sermon.

I know what you mean. It's kind of like a straight edge band talking about edge: their songs should speak for themselves. Alot of christian bands just go out with the mentality of spreading the gospel or what have you, so they think this is their big chance to convert, except it only pisses people off.

[3eb23]

Good christian artists I can think of at the moment:

www.myspace.com/anathallo (http://www.myspace.com/anathallo)
www.myspace.com/saxonshore (http://www.myspace.com/saxonshore)
www.myspace.com/ascitiesburn (http://www.myspace.com/ascitiesburn)
www.myspace.com/derekwebb (http://www.myspace.com/derekwebb)
www.myspace.com/jonforeman (http://www.myspace.com/jonforeman)
www.myspace.com/myepic (http://www.myspace.com/myepic)
www.myspace.com/lifestorymonologue (http://www.myspace.com/lifestorymonologue)
www.myspace.com/saintsneversurrender (http://www.myspace.com/saintsneversurrender)
www.myspace.com/mewithoutyou (http://www.myspace.com/mewithoutyou)
www.myspace.com/takeitbackar (http://www.myspace.com/takeitbackar)
www.myspace.com/wrenchintheworks (http://www.myspace.com/wrenchintheworks)
www.myspace.com/adventnc (http://www.myspace.com/adventnc)
www.myspace.com/dustinkensrue (http://www.myspace.com/dustinkensrue)

There's some bands that I enjoy.

YES

[MyNameIsRoss]

mewithoutYou.......


that's about it.

[FailedRepublic]

this is the worst logic i have ever heard.


there are straight edge guys in Converge, by your stupidity that makes their band a straight edge band.


personal beliefs don't always reflect musical ideals MORON. especially when you music has NO FUCKING LYRICS to determine that.

I think I love you.

[Here It Goes]

lol, classic case of taking scripture wayyyy out of context. Read the whole chapter before you start assuming stuff like that.

I've read the whole book, bro. How else exactly would you interpret that scripture?

[rising_tied]

Technically you can't not believe in Jesus because he was a real person. .
Actually I can not believe in Jesus. because I bellieve he was not a real person. I believe he is equal to Sam I Am.. a fictional character.

[mick_jagger]

Actually I can not believe in Jesus. because I bellieve he was not a real person. I believe he is equal to Sam I Am.. a fictional character.

I went into like a huge explanation of remarks like this a few pages back, which was followed by a discussion of historians of the time period, and how some think the church forced them to mention certain people. Either way, I don't feel like going into it again.

[rising_tied]

I went into like a huge explanation of remarks like this a few pages back, which was followed by a discussion of historians of the time period, and how some think the church forced them to mention certain people. Either way, I don't feel like going into it again.
Its all good.. I'll go peep it

[mick_jagger]

Its all good.. I'll go peep it

Haha. Yeah. It was a pretty good conversation. A lot of info came from the wonder that is Google. Haha.

[fenderkid212]

christian rock is kind of an oxymoron

[flks511]

Well there are two different Christian Rocks. The stereotypical "Jesus, fill me with your hot sticky love" christian rock, and then the screamo christian rock, like UO and TDWP, which, I'm pretty sure Jesus himself wouldn't listen to.
Ever heard of Skillet?

[oh! tony]

hey, check out hillsong united

[Cheshire_Buddha]

christian rock is kind of an oxymoron

We have Christian 'death metal' bands here.

[handlikesecret]

hey, check out hillsong united
good stuff. From the Inside Out is a great song.

[Colorblind!]

Used to be into United. Now I find all that evangelical worship stuff kind of phony.
Christian Rock isn't an oxymoron.

and Advent rules.

[kdefrisc]

i think the distinction for me comes from discerning bands that identify as christians and may sometimes have christian themes, and christian bands.

i really love bands like as cities burn, mae, anberlin, sufjan, showbread, mewithoutYou (do they count? they clearly have theological themes but i think the weiss bros are sufi)

i do avoid those bands that stick to modern christian devotional rock, you know the kind you hear in non-denominational christian churches, campus crusade, and late night worship CD infomercials. that kind of music doesnt really do it for me.

[dancelukedance]

Christian rock for life \m/

[awakeohsleeper]

I don't understand the term "Christian rock". If someone really wanted to imitate Jesus Christ and the way he lived, they wouldn't put themselves in the kind of atmosphere that a rock concert provides. They probably would also be more familiar with the scripture at 1 Corinthians 11:14, which clearly states that it is dishonorable for a man to have long hair. Wonder how Underoath keeps missing that one on their tour bus Bible study sessions.

I think this is nonsense. From my limited Bible knowledge, surely you should attend to the plank in your own eye before picking out other people's 'faults'? And anyway, I heard God looks on the inside anyway, whilst humans forever judge outward appearances.

As someone pointed out earlier, it is pretty clear in the Bible that Jesus hung out with the lowest - the people society rejected - the people religious hypocrites rejected.

[awakeohsleeper]

On a total side topic, what do people think about sacrificing beliefs for record sales? I'm talking re-recording a song and taking out words like 'Christ'.

[dancelukedance]

The bible is absurd

[Chris Fallon]

I actually listen to a lot of music considered to be (or at one time) "Christian" -- and I am agnostic. Praise songs are what I tend to delete, but if the references are in context of the song, I can live with that. Doesn't really bug me.

[xJesusFreakx]

Christian bands I love: dc Talk, As Cities Burn, (mostly old) Disciple, Audio Adrenaline, Jars of Clay, the O.C. Supertones, David Crowder*Band, the Glorious Unseen, Anberlin, the Chariot, Project 86... Yeah, I like a lot of Christian rock. Look at my user name, though. What do you expect? ;-)

[Jefferson Rank]

I actually listen to a lot of music considered to be (or at one time) "Christian" -- and I am agnostic. Praise songs are what I tend to delete, but if the references are in context of the song, I can live with that. Doesn't really bug me.

Its the same for me. The constant references get annoying, but if it's a good band, I can deal with it.

[Misstamara]

underoath??

[Misstamara]

Him ??

[mmmmmpoetry]

I can't stand Jars Of Clays O_O

[batmannj]

Christian bands I love: dc Talk, As Cities Burn, (mostly old) Disciple, Audio Adrenaline, Jars of Clay, the O.C. Supertones, David Crowder*Band, the Glorious Unseen, Anberlin, the Chariot, Project 86... Yeah, I like a lot of Christian rock. Look at my user name, though. What do you expect? ;-)

lol same here my friend. I listen to a lot of Christian music (I am Christian, so I dig it) and it helps me in my faith too. I saw that Project 86 is finishing their 7th album, I am stoked

[trappedintime]

Anberlin are no longer christian since they ditched T&N.

[awakeohsleeper]

Anberlin are no longer christian since they ditched T&N.

That seems a rather unjustified statement. There have been quite a few bands with no Christian beliefs signed to T&N or Solid State. Leaving a label with predominately Christian artists does not mean you are not Christians anymore.

Or were you just trying to provoke reaction?

[brwnhawaiin]

Starflyer '59. They are the only band that I listen to that are a "christian band", they/he are great.

[xJesusFreakx]

lol same here my friend. I listen to a lot of Christian music (I am Christian, so I dig it) and it helps me in my faith too. I saw that Project 86 is finishing their 7th album, I am stoked

Hecks yeah, I'm so pumped for new Project. Have you read Andrew Schwab's blogs for Relevant before? They're always so good.

[batmannj]

Hecks yeah, I'm so pumped for new Project. Have you read Andrew Schwab's blogs for Relevant before? They're always so good.

I have not read his blog but I will most definitely check it out. He seems like a guy who would have a lot of interesting things to say in a blog.

[Zummy]

I pretty much got the response that I thought I would get. I feel the same way as most of you. I can stand a band like Anberlin that has christian beliefs but does not make every song about god, Jesus, and all that jazz. Even though I'm atheist it doesn't seem to bother me when a band talks about god. I happen to think that it is foolish to believe in something that is not real but if that's what you believe in then I'm not gonna tell you not to. To me, that seems to be the theme of Christianity. It's believe in what we believe or else you will spend eternity in hell. However, what they have failed to realize, is that there is no heaven and no hell so I can't really be sent anywhere for not believing. The reason you should live your life is because you always have something to live for. If you're a law abiding person it's because you think that is the right thing to do and not because you fear what will happen to you when you die. If fear of ending up in hell is the only reason that you abide by the rules then you have completely missed the point the rules serve in the first place and you will be shocked when death eventually comes and nothing happens. Again, this is just my opinion and you are free to believe whatever you want. I would rather people believe in what people think is right than listen to me or anyone else because they've been told to.

[Regards]

I pretty much got the response that I thought I would get. I feel the same way as most of you. I can stand a band like Anberlin that has christian beliefs but does not make every song about god, Jesus, and all that jazz. Even though I'm atheist it doesn't seem to bother me when a band talks about god. I happen to think that it is foolish to believe in something that is not real but if that's what you believe in then I'm not gonna tell you not to. To me, that seems to be the theme of Christianity. It's believe in what we believe or else you will spend eternity in hell. However, what they have failed to realize, is that there is no heaven and no hell so I can't really be sent anywhere for not believing. The reason you should live your life is because you always have something to live for. If you're a law abiding person it's because you think that is the right thing to do and not because you fear what will happen to you when you die. If fear of ending up in hell is the only reason that you abide by the rules then you have completely missed the point the rules serve in the first place and you will be shocked when death eventually comes and nothing happens. Again, this is just my opinion and you are free to believe whatever you want. I would rather people believe in what people think is right than listen to me or anyone else because they've been told to.
According to Atheism there can't be a "right" though?

[Zummy]

Here's the thing I consider my self an atheist but I don't really view it as a religion. It's more of a way of life. There are people who feel that they need to actively go out and make point of people telling them that they are wrong. That's not how I am. I don't believe that god exists and I think that the bible is the greatest non-fiction book ever written. However, I am not going to stand on the street and tell every person that walks by that. That is the exact part of religion that I don't like. The whole do as I do, believe as I believe. I don't need to push my views on everyone else and I don't need them to push their views on me. When I speak of what's right I speak of what you would personally think is right. My view is that for example, people abstain from killing not because they think that god would be mad or they will go to hell but rather because the don't think it's right to kill another. To be frank, you don't need to live your life in fear of god or in the expectation that jesus will come back because there is no god and jesus will never return. If you think that god does exist then answer me this: if god exists then how come good things happen to bad people and bad things happen to good people?

[Colorblind!]

I pretty much got the response that I thought I would get. I feel the same way as most of you. I can stand a band like Anberlin that has christian beliefs but does not make every song about god, Jesus, and all that jazz. Even though I'm atheist it doesn't seem to bother me when a band talks about god. I happen to think that it is foolish to believe in something that is not real but if that's what you believe in then I'm not gonna tell you not to. To me, that seems to be the theme of Christianity. It's believe in what we believe or else you will spend eternity in hell. However, what they have failed to realize, is that there is no heaven and no hell so I can't really be sent anywhere for not believing. The reason you should live your life is because you always have something to live for. If you're a law abiding person it's because you think that is the right thing to do and not because you fear what will happen to you when you die. If fear of ending up in hell is the only reason that you abide by the rules then you have completely missed the point the rules serve in the first place and you will be shocked when death eventually comes and nothing happens. Again, this is just my opinion and you are free to believe whatever you want. I would rather people believe in what people think is right than listen to me or anyone else because they've been told to.

You happen to think it's foolish to believe in something that is not real? Uh, well duh. But Christians believe that the contents of the bible are true, so to them it is real. Either ignorant or just poorly worded.

Christianity has never been about abiding by laws so that you can avoid punishment. Jesus was crucified by the people upholding the law, and he came to turn the world upside down and show them another way.
I don't see why people make it such a big deal about following laws.
Is it really that hard to love people? Jesus came teaching non-violence and to stand up for the oppressed/poor/homeless/marginalized people. I really don't think I will regret living that way even if I find out there is no heaven or hell.

[Colorblind!]

I think this is nonsense. From my limited Bible knowledge, surely you should attend to the plank in your own eye before picking out other people's 'faults'? And anyway, I heard God looks on the inside anyway, whilst humans forever judge outward appearances.

As someone pointed out earlier, it is pretty clear in the Bible that Jesus hung out with the lowest - the people society rejected - the people religious hypocrites rejected.

Thank you. I'm so sick of hearing this argument.

[Regards]

Here's the thing I consider my self an atheist but I don't really view it as a religion. It's more of a way of life. There are people who feel that they need to actively go out and make point of people telling them that they are wrong. That's not how I am. I don't believe that god exists and I think that the bible is the greatest non-fiction book ever written. However, I am not going to stand on the street and tell every person that walks by that. That is the exact part of religion that I don't like. The whole do as I do, believe as I believe. I don't need to push my views on everyone else and I don't need them to push their views on me. When I speak of what's right I speak of what you would personally think is right. My view is that for example, people abstain from killing not because they think that god would be mad or they will go to hell but rather because the don't think it's right to kill another. To be frank, you don't need to live your life in fear of god or in the expectation that jesus will come back because there is no god and jesus will never return. If you think that god does exist then answer me this: if god exists then how come good things happen to bad people and bad things happen to good people?
Free will broski. You have the free will to say you don't believe in God just as much as I have it to say that I do.

I really don't want this to get into a huge theological debate, because I don't believe either side goes anywhere, especially via Internet web forums, my case and point is that if you're going to come into a MUSIC thread and write a paragraph that goes on about how there is no heaven nor hell and that the Bible is made up and yada yada (By the way you seem to be very actively telling a certain group of people their wrong there), don't expect not to get criticized when you contradict yourself.

[Zummy]

The whole point of what I was writing was to express my opinion. If didn't make it clear before I will now. This is only what I believe. You are free to believe whatever you want but I happen to disagree with religion. I am of the opinion that there is no heaven or hell, I am of the opinion there is reason to believe in god. All it is is an opinion. If you disagree then you disagree.

[Colorblind!]

What do you have to say to me? I'm just curious.

[Zummy]

I don't really have anything to say. I wasn't trying to start a whole debate I was just trying to express an opinion. You can believe whatever you want. I told you what I believe and that's it. Take it however you want to.

[Here It Goes]

I think this is nonsense. From my limited Bible knowledge, surely you should attend to the plank in your own eye before picking out other people's 'faults'? And anyway, I heard God looks on the inside anyway, whilst humans forever judge outward appearances.

As someone pointed out earlier, it is pretty clear in the Bible that Jesus hung out with the lowest - the people society rejected - the people religious hypocrites rejected.

Nice dodge.

God judging people based on outward appearances has more to do with people's actions, not their appearance, any Bible reader should be discerning enough to know that. He doesn't reject people for being ugly, or not cutting their hair, but if a person makes a deliberate choice to ignore scriptures, like Underoath seems to, then how can they have God's approval?

I'm not being self-righteous; we all make mistakes, and I'm certainly not perfect. But I try to at least portray myself as a Christian would, and I'm proud of that.

In any light, how is the scripture that I brought out, and the fact that Underoath ignores it, nonsense? They're the hypocrites.

[salad fingers]

I'll listen as long as it isn't too preachy. Impending Doom...goddamn they're horrible. Shove it down the listeners' ears and basically say "IF YOU DON'T AGREE WITH US YOU ARE FUCKED".

[rising_tied]

Yea ima non believer aas well as I established earlier in this thread, but I get into hella bands and then end up finding out they are Christian which is all good, but I didnt come here to shoot down anyone. I just wanted to say that Zummy, you might wanna watch how you word things. IDK if you were trying to come off like that but some people may have taken offense to how you worte what you did. It seemed like you were saying "I wont shoot anyone down for what they believe in even if they are fucking stupid and wrong" just in long paragraphs. I just wanted to say that it seemed like you were at first saying your not trying to diss anyone, and then started dissin em. It basically seemed like you wanted to start an argument

[awakeohsleeper]

Nice dodge.

God judging people based on outward appearances has more to do with people's actions, not their appearance, any Bible reader should be discerning enough to know that. He doesn't reject people for being ugly, or not cutting their hair, but if a person makes a deliberate choice to ignore scriptures, like Underoath seems to, then how can they have God's approval?

I'm not being self-righteous; we all make mistakes, and I'm certainly not perfect. But I try to at least portray myself as a Christian would, and I'm proud of that.

In any light, how is the scripture that I brought out, and the fact that Underoath ignores it, nonsense? They're the hypocrites.

From my experience (as a History and Politics student - and my History research has focussed a lot on late antiquity/medieval Christian history) the scripture you referenced can be taken as contextual. As in Paul was writing regarding customs prevalent in his contemporary society. To me, it doesn't seem plausible that the God of the Bible would condemn someone for having long hair.

The thing is, Underoath will naturally have gone against things in the Bible. So will I. I lied earlier today you see - I told my brother I'd help him upload some music to his MP3 player when I had no intention of doing so. As a Christian though, I don't think we should pick out what other people are doing wrong, but focus on our own shortfalls. If you cannot love people who believe the same sort of thing as you (ie. Underoath - because even if they have different theological beliefs they still believe in God and that Jesus died for the forgiveness of sins) then how will you be able to love your the rest of the world? Because Jesus said that the most important commandment behind loving God with everything is loving your neighbour as yourself. And when asked who our neighbour is he gave a pretty clear story stating that everyone is.

My problem is this - you should never be picking out other people and calling them hypocrites. The Pharisees pretty much did this. They gave everyone unattainable targets. They give little from their everything. They condemned. They forgot the point.

I think Christians miss the point far too often. I include myself in that. We're all hypocrites. I've not met one person that lives totally like the Bible teaches. That hasn't lied once. That hasn't lusted after someone. That hasn't coveted someone else's possessions. Jealousy. Hatred. We're humans! But the point is that Jesus provides salvation from that. From what I gather his nails were meant to be ours - he took our punishment so our relationship with God could be restored.

The debate about long hair or rock bands with Christians within it is totally ridiculous therefore. Underoath are making a difference in people's lives whether they have long hair or not. I'd rather they be loving people than focussing on something as contextually trivial as long hair. And maybe I am wrong. But I think God would rather we be loving as he loved rather than picking out each others faults.

So criticise me again. As I said, I have a limited knowledge of the Bible (believe it or not) and I'd love you to convince me sufficiently to your way of thinking. Point is, currently, I don't feel that coming onto a music forum thread and labelling Underoath hypocrites is beneficial to anyone.

[xJesusFreakx]

Oh great... Any time a debate about long hair, tattoos, or anything like that comes up, I just have to roll my eyes. You'd think people would have gotten the main idea by now. There are also passages about women submitting to men, and slaves to masters. Does that make the Bible sexist, or in support of slavery? You have to read things in context. The Bible isn't a rule book. The book of Titus is a pretty good read on this topic.

[xponyxboyx]

my children my bride
is the greatest christian band ever

[trappedintime]

That seems a rather unjustified statement. There have been quite a few bands with no Christian beliefs signed to T&N or Solid State. Leaving a label with predominately Christian artists does not mean you are not Christians anymore.

Or were you just trying to provoke reaction?

yea... just being sarcastic.

[awakeohsleeper]

yea... just being sarcastic.

Haha, I always miss internet sarcasm.

[Here It Goes]

From my experience (as a History and Politics student - and my History research has focussed a lot on late antiquity/medieval Christian history) the scripture you referenced can be taken as contextual. As in Paul was writing regarding customs prevalent in his contemporary society. To me, it doesn't seem plausible that the God of the Bible would condemn someone for having long hair.

The thing is, Underoath will naturally have gone against things in the Bible. So will I. I lied earlier today you see - I told my brother I'd help him upload some music to his MP3 player when I had no intention of doing so. As a Christian though, I don't think we should pick out what other people are doing wrong, but focus on our own shortfalls. If you cannot love people who believe the same sort of thing as you (ie. Underoath - because even if they have different theological beliefs they still believe in God and that Jesus died for the forgiveness of sins) then how will you be able to love your the rest of the world? Because Jesus said that the most important commandment behind loving God with everything is loving your neighbour as yourself. And when asked who our neighbour is he gave a pretty clear story stating that everyone is.

My problem is this - you should never be picking out other people and calling them hypocrites. The Pharisees pretty much did this. They gave everyone unattainable targets. They give little from their everything. They condemned. They forgot the point.

I think Christians miss the point far too often. I include myself in that. We're all hypocrites. I've not met one person that lives totally like the Bible teaches. That hasn't lied once. That hasn't lusted after someone. That hasn't coveted someone else's possessions. Jealousy. Hatred. We're humans! But the point is that Jesus provides salvation from that. From what I gather his nails were meant to be ours - he took our punishment so our relationship with God could be restored.

The debate about long hair or rock bands with Christians within it is totally ridiculous therefore. Underoath are making a difference in people's lives whether they have long hair or not. I'd rather they be loving people than focussing on something as contextually trivial as long hair. And maybe I am wrong. But I think God would rather we be loving as he loved rather than picking out each others faults.

So criticise me again. As I said, I have a limited knowledge of the Bible (believe it or not) and I'd love you to convince me sufficiently to your way of thinking. Point is, currently, I don't feel that coming onto a music forum thread and labelling Underoath hypocrites is beneficial to anyone.

I think in most ways you hit the nail on the head, and your understanding of the Bible seems to be closer to mine than you think.

I'll just never understand how people pick and choose what to believe from the Bible. Again, I'm not perfect, but I do try and follow everything the Bible clearly states. For the guys from Underoath to publicly decry homosexuality, for example (which I also believe is wrong, straight from the Bible), but then ignore the apostle Paul's counsel on how men are to appear in the congregation, it's hypocritical. Very much so. It doesn't discount the good things that they do, but it most likely does detract from the message they bring.

[Regards]

This may spark a little controversy, or at least a little flaming my way, but that's alright. I'm just starting to get into worship, like really good worship, and discovering that I really dig some worship bands and songs.

Anyone else along these lines? Want to share some good worship bands/songs?

The two I jam out the most recently have been David Crowder Band and The Glorious Unseen, but I really dig some Tree63 here and there. Blessed Be You Name has got to be one of my favorite worship songs.

[TheMisanthrope]

i dont like the genere of christian music however i do like some christian band such as TDWP and relient k

[xJesusFreakx]

This may spark a little controversy, or at least a little flaming my way, but that's alright. I'm just starting to get into worship, like really good worship, and discovering that I really dig some worship bands and songs.

Anyone else along these lines? Want to share some good worship bands/songs?

The two I jam out the most recently have been David Crowder Band and The Glorious Unseen, but I really dig some Tree63 here and there. Blessed Be You Name has got to be one of my favorite worship songs.

You are just now getting into worship? Shame on you, lol... David Crowder is easily the best, and the Glorious Unseen are a sweet up-and-coming worship band, so good choices. I suggest you check out some 90s Christian music; some excellent worship came out of that decade. They might not be strict worship bands, but dc Talk ("In the Light"), Audio Adrenaline (the Underdog album), and Jars of Clay ("Love Song for a Savior," "Flood") really rocked some uplifting jams back in the day.

[batmannj]

This may spark a little controversy, or at least a little flaming my way, but that's alright. I'm just starting to get into worship, like really good worship, and discovering that I really dig some worship bands and songs.

Anyone else along these lines? Want to share some good worship bands/songs?

The two I jam out the most recently have been David Crowder Band and The Glorious Unseen, but I really dig some Tree63 here and there. Blessed Be You Name has got to be one of my favorite worship songs.
David Crowder Band is probably my favorite worship band, I love how good the music is.

[Regards]

You are just now getting into worship? Shame on you, lol... David Crowder is easily the best, and the Glorious Unseen are a sweet up-and-coming worship band, so good choices. I suggest you check out some 90s Christian music; some excellent worship came out of that decade. They might not be strict worship bands, but dc Talk ("In the Light"), Audio Adrenaline (the Underdog album), and Jars of Clay ("Love Song for a Savior," "Flood") really rocked some uplifting jams back in the day.
Oh I know man! I mean I sing and whatnot at church, but it's a pretty chill church. I started going to this Thursday night group and the worship is amazing. Totally realized that I'm missing out on such an amazing thing. Definitely going to check them out. I've listened to Audio Adrenaline, and I actually saw Newboys this past weekend with Michael Tait filling in for lead vocals. What an amazing experience.
David Crowder Band is probably my favorite worship band, I love how good the music is.
Yeah, A Collision is phenomenal.

Though it may be lame, I love a lot of Chris Tomlin's songs as well. Oh, and Better Is One Day by Kutless is pretty excellent.

[lonelysuperstar]

I'll just never understand how people pick and choose what to believe from the Bible. Again, I'm not perfect, but I do try and follow everything the Bible clearly states. For the guys from Underoath to publicly decry homosexuality, for example (which I also believe is wrong, straight from the Bible), but then ignore the apostle Paul's counsel on how men are to appear in the congregation, it's hypocritical. Very much so. It doesn't discount the good things that they do, but it most likely does detract from the message they bring.
This is easy. People generally interpret Paul's comments about hair coverings and what not to be cultural issues of the day, and are thus no longer necessarily applicable to today's congregations. Homosexuality, on the other hand, is a moral issue. God's morals should remain unchanged, since the bible teaches that he is the same yesterday, today and forever. It's not a matter of picking and choosing - it's a matter of interpretation. For instance, in Old Testament law women who had their periods were told to stay outside of the camp until their cycle had finished because they were regarded as "unclean". I don't suppose you still ascribe to this law?

[Here It Goes]

This is easy. People generally interpret Paul's comments about hair coverings and what not to be cultural issues of the day, and are thus no longer necessarily applicable to today's congregations. Homosexuality, on the other hand, is a moral issue. God's morals should remain unchanged, since the bible teaches that he is the same yesterday, today and forever. It's not a matter of picking and choosing - it's a matter of interpretation. For instance, in Old Testament law women who had their periods were told to stay outside of the camp until their cycle had finished because they were regarded as "unclean". I don't suppose you still ascribe to this law?

Nope, I don't, nor to I ascribe to any laws directly part of the Mosaic Law, because, as Hebrews chapter 5 (could be the wrong chapter) shows, Christ's coming to the earth and dying in behalf of sinful mankind initiated a new covenant in place of the old covenant that God had with the nation of Israel through the Mosaic Law. So Christ's death invalidated the Mosiac Law (as well of the sanctity of the Jewish nation, which failed miserably as a whole), and from then on, people from all nations, not just the nation of Israel, could have the opportunity to worship God through faith in and imitation of his son, Jesus Christ, thus becoming known as "Christians".

[batmannj]

You are just now getting into worship? Shame on you, lol... David Crowder is easily the best, and the Glorious Unseen are a sweet up-and-coming worship band, so good choices. I suggest you check out some 90s Christian music; some excellent worship came out of that decade. They might not be strict worship bands, but dc Talk ("In the Light"), Audio Adrenaline (the Underdog album), and Jars of Clay ("Love Song for a Savior," "Flood") really rocked some uplifting jams back in the day.
Good choices all around, the 90's had some real good stuff.
Oh I know man! I mean I sing and whatnot at church, but it's a pretty chill church. I started going to this Thursday night group and the worship is amazing. Totally realized that I'm missing out on such an amazing thing. Definitely going to check them out. I've listened to Audio Adrenaline, and I actually saw Newboys this past weekend with Michael Tait filling in for lead vocals. What an amazing experience.

Yeah, A Collision is phenomenal.

Though it may be lame, I love a lot of Chris Tomlin's songs as well. Oh, and Better Is One Day by Kutless is pretty excellent.
Chris Tomlin really hits hard in the Christian setting for sure, he writes some beautiful worship songs. Jeremy Camp (The album's Stay and Carried Me: The Worship Project) is an artist I enjoy too, and those two albums are my favorites.

Even some Third Day is stuff that I like too.

[bard]

i recently downloaded jesus freak out of a kind of nostalgia music freakout, and that is such an incredible album. every song is great, the best being day by day and like it, love it, need it

[Regards]

I've got a lot of catching up to do music wise here haha. I've definitely been wanting to get Jesus Freak, I've heard nothing but good things about it.

[walkonpastme]

im not sure where this thread is at right now but anyways i like listening to a bunch of christian bands such as impending doom, norma jean, mychildren mybride, august burns red, gwen stacy, with blood comes cleansing, as i lay dying and like old haste the day. honestly i have no problem with the meaning of the lyrics etc as its just music. what i do have a problem with is when the band is on stage at a show such as bamboozle (where this happened multiple times)and not everyone is christian, nor is the show related to religion (obviously at corner stone or scream for a prayer this is ok) and being talking about how much jesus christ loves all of us. now look everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and the bands even state this (allthough in the case of haste the day this is bullshit cause they kicked their guitar player out cause he was an athiest). when i go to a show i go to hear music. not to hear some speach about jesus and have religion shoved down my throat.

[Volo]

im not sure where this thread is at right now but anyways i like listening to a bunch of christian bands such as impending doom, norma jean, mychildren mybride, august burns red, gwen stacy, with blood comes cleansing, as i lay dying and like old haste the day. honestly i have no problem with the meaning of the lyrics etc as its just music. what i do have a problem with is when the band is on stage at a show such as bamboozle (where this happened multiple times)and not everyone is christian, nor is the show related to religion (obviously at corner stone or scream for a prayer this is ok) and being talking about how much jesus christ loves all of us. now look everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and the bands even state this (allthough in the case of haste the day this is bullshit cause they kicked their guitar player out cause he was an athiest). when i go to a show i go to hear music. not to hear some speach about jesus and have religion shoved down my throat....You're really complaining about Christian bands doing a little bit of between-song preaching?

Seriously?

Fuck, deal with it. Brand New asked us all to say a prayer when someone got hurt at the Indy show, it happens.

[xJesusFreakx]

I've got a lot of catching up to do music wise here haha. I've definitely been wanting to get Jesus Freak, I've heard nothing but good things about it.

It is a Christian music masterpiece. It's not accident that I chose it as my user name, lol. Every Christian who likes rock music should have it.

[lonelysuperstar]

Nope, I don't, nor to I ascribe to any laws directly part of the Mosaic Law, because, as Hebrews chapter 5 (could be the wrong chapter) shows, Christ's coming to the earth and dying in behalf of sinful mankind initiated a new covenant in place of the old covenant that God had with the nation of Israel through the Mosaic Law. So Christ's death invalidated the Mosiac Law (as well of the sanctity of the Jewish nation, which failed miserably as a whole), and from then on, people from all nations, not just the nation of Israel, could have the opportunity to worship God through faith in and imitation of his son, Jesus Christ, thus becoming known as "Christians".

careful, Jesus didn't do away with the law. he brought new light to it, and as such we no longer stand condemned by it. however, he said himself that he didn't come to abolish it, but to fulfill it.

[batmannj]

i recently downloaded jesus freak out of a kind of nostalgia music freakout, and that is such an incredible album. every song is great, the best being day by day and like it, love it, need it
Totally agree.

What do you think of the new Zao album?

[Duexy]

christian rock, a successful african american comedian/actor.

[Five-Star]

lollll.. i like uo and tdwp

[walkonpastme]

...You're really complaining about Christian bands doing a little bit of between-song preaching?

Seriously?

Fuck, deal with it. Brand New asked us all to say a prayer when someone got hurt at the Indy show, it happens.


there is a big difference between saying a prayer for someone who was hurt and telling us "there is someone who loves all of us and his name is jesus christ". all religion does is persecute people. i dont need a band telling me that whatever we believe in is ok when they dont really mean it.

[Cody Nelson]

This thread is pretty Christ-o-riffic. My favorite Christcore bands would be FF5 or Underoath.


Please tell me you just came up with that, cause if you did, that's fucking hilarious.

[poi]

im not sure where this thread is at right now but anyways i like listening to a bunch of christian bands such as impending doom, norma jean, mychildren mybride, august burns red, gwen stacy, with blood comes cleansing, as i lay dying and like old haste the day. honestly i have no problem with the meaning of the lyrics etc as its just music. what i do have a problem with is when the band is on stage at a show such as bamboozle (where this happened multiple times)and not everyone is christian, nor is the show related to religion (obviously at corner stone or scream for a prayer this is ok) and being talking about how much jesus christ loves all of us. now look everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and the bands even state this (allthough in the case of haste the day this is bullshit cause they kicked their guitar player out cause he was an athiest). when i go to a show i go to hear music. not to hear some speach about jesus and have religion shoved down my throat. dont listen to shitty music and this will happen less.

[awakeohsleeper]

The two I jam out the most recently have been David Crowder Band and The Glorious Unseen, but I really dig some Tree63 here and there. Blessed Be You Name has got to be one of my favorite worship songs.
Tree63 are absolutely great. My dad actually has a really good taste in music and they are his favourite band. We listen to them whenever I'm in the car with him. Turn it up really loud! It's great.

(Just to illustrate how cool my dad is... when mewithoutYou were last over here in the UK the closest show was too far away with no trains back afterwards so my dad came and watched them. They were supporting Brand New. He stayed for the whole show and said he enjoyed it quite a lot. I have a lot of respect for him! He loves songs like 'The Secret' by Emery as well. It's amazing.)

[Regards]

dont listen to shitty music and this will happen less.
You're such a pleasant person to have in these forums.
Tree63 are absolutely great. My dad actually has a really good taste in music and they are his favourite band. We listen to them whenever I'm in the car with him. Turn it up really loud! It's great.

(Just to illustrate how cool my dad is... when mewithoutYou were last over here in the UK the closest show was too far away with no trains back afterwards so my dad came and watched them. They were supporting Brand New. He stayed for the whole show and said he enjoyed it quite a lot. I have a lot of respect for him! He loves songs like 'The Secret' by Emery as well. It's amazing.)
Haha, nice! Yeah, Tree63 definitely has some jams, I saw them about 2 years ago and they put on a great show as well. Your dad seems like a really cool dude, especially if he digs Emery.

[xJesusFreakx]

im not sure where this thread is at right now but anyways i like listening to a bunch of christian bands such as impending doom, norma jean, mychildren mybride, august burns red, gwen stacy, with blood comes cleansing, as i lay dying and like old haste the day. honestly i have no problem with the meaning of the lyrics etc as its just music. what i do have a problem with is when the band is on stage at a show such as bamboozle (where this happened multiple times)and not everyone is christian, nor is the show related to religion (obviously at corner stone or scream for a prayer this is ok) and being talking about how much jesus christ loves all of us. now look everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and the bands even state this (allthough in the case of haste the day this is bullshit cause they kicked their guitar player out cause he was an athiest). when i go to a show i go to hear music. not to hear some speach about jesus and have religion shoved down my throat.

1.) What's wrong with Haste the Day kicking out a band member for not being a Christian? How is that being intolerant in any way? They are an openly Christian band, so they should have all Christian members. It's just part of what their band is, and what it was intended to be from the start. If they called themselves a Christian band and then allowed an atheist in the band, I would be highly disappointed, not because I'm against Christians and atheists being in the same band, but because I expect any band willing to take a stand on anything (whatever it may be) to actually show some conviction.

2.) So, if someone gets onstage and talks about what Jesus has done in his/her life, that's automatically shoving religion down your throat? If the band took time to talk about something that you strongly believe in, then you wouldn't care, but because their beliefs aren't your beliefs, them sharing their beliefs (in a very simple, personal, from-the-heart kind of way) is somehow intolerant. Honestly, the average non-Christian is probably more intolerant of the average Christian these days than the other way around.

[Regards]

im not sure where this thread is at right now but anyways i like listening to a bunch of christian bands such as impending doom, norma jean, mychildren mybride, august burns red, gwen stacy, with blood comes cleansing, as i lay dying and like old haste the day. honestly i have no problem with the meaning of the lyrics etc as its just music. what i do have a problem with is when the band is on stage at a show such as bamboozle (where this happened multiple times)and not everyone is christian, nor is the show related to religion (obviously at corner stone or scream for a prayer this is ok) and being talking about how much jesus christ loves all of us. now look everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and the bands even state this (allthough in the case of haste the day this is bullshit cause they kicked their guitar player out cause he was an athiest). when i go to a show i go to hear music. not to hear some speach about jesus and have religion shoved down my throat.
If that's the case then you must get pretty angry when punk bands talk about their politcal thoughts on stage.

[batmannj]

im not sure where this thread is at right now but anyways i like listening to a bunch of christian bands such as impending doom, norma jean, mychildren mybride, august burns red, gwen stacy, with blood comes cleansing, as i lay dying and like old haste the day. honestly i have no problem with the meaning of the lyrics etc as its just music. what i do have a problem with is when the band is on stage at a show such as bamboozle (where this happened multiple times)and not everyone is christian, nor is the show related to religion (obviously at corner stone or scream for a prayer this is ok) and being talking about how much jesus christ loves all of us. now look everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and the bands even state this (allthough in the case of haste the day this is bullshit cause they kicked their guitar player out cause he was an athiest). when i go to a show i go to hear music. not to hear some speach about jesus and have religion shoved down my throat.

1.) What's wrong with Haste the Day kicking out a band member for not being a Christian? How is that being intolerant in any way? They are an openly Christian band, so they should have all Christian members. It's just part of what their band is, and what it was intended to be from the start. If they called themselves a Christian band and then allowed an atheist in the band, I would be highly disappointed, not because I'm against Christians and atheists being in the same band, but because I expect any band willing to take a stand on anything (whatever it may be) to actually show some conviction.

2.) So, if someone gets onstage and talks about what Jesus has done in his/her life, that's automatically shoving religion down your throat? If the band took time to talk about something that you strongly believe in, then you wouldn't care, but because their beliefs aren't your beliefs, them sharing their beliefs (in a very simple, personal, from-the-heart kind of way) is somehow intolerant. Honestly, the average non-Christian is probably more intolerant of the average Christian these days than the other way around.

If that's the case then you must get pretty angry when punk bands talk about their politcal thoughts on stage.
Just to add on to what xJesusFreakx and Regards said, but why is it bad if a Christian band wants to talk about how their life has changed for the better? Honestly it is kind of silly to get upset when they talk about Jesus, it's like if you hear that name you instantly think are preaching. What if I got legitimately upset when I go to a secular concert and the guy is calling the crowd mother f-er's and dropping Jesus' name in vain all the time? I wouldn't be able to hardly go to any show.

I guess my point is, don't shut off everything you hear after 'Jesus.' If someone talks about personal examples you don't have to take them to heart, but don't get upset because some insinuates that their life was positively influenced because of something that you don't agree with.

[bard]

Totally agree.

What do you think of the new Zao album?
i like it a lot. took a few listens to go from "normal zao album" to "really good Zao album"

couldn't rank it yet though, too early to tell

[Colorblind!]

This may spark a little controversy, or at least a little flaming my way, but that's alright. I'm just starting to get into worship, like really good worship, and discovering that I really dig some worship bands and songs.

Anyone else along these lines? Want to share some good worship bands/songs?

The two I jam out the most recently have been David Crowder Band and The Glorious Unseen, but I really dig some Tree63 here and there. Blessed Be You Name has got to be one of my favorite worship songs.

I absolutely love The Glorious Unseen as they're one of the few "worship" bands I can get into. It's simple and genuine. I think worship music as a whole can be shallow, and I'm sick of the glamour and hype of it all. (ie. United, which you may really enjoy. I would suggest you listen if you haven't?)
I personally connect with God through instrumental music, as I kind of feel like worship in general has just become a cliche and has been boxed in as a certain style of music rather then an action.

Best worship experience ever: Sleeping Giant at cornerstone.

[Colorblind!]

im not sure where this thread is at right now but anyways i like listening to a bunch of christian bands such as impending doom, norma jean, mychildren mybride, august burns red, gwen stacy, with blood comes cleansing, as i lay dying and like old haste the day. honestly i have no problem with the meaning of the lyrics etc as its just music. what i do have a problem with is when the band is on stage at a show such as bamboozle (where this happened multiple times)and not everyone is christian, nor is the show related to religion (obviously at corner stone or scream for a prayer this is ok) and being talking about how much jesus christ loves all of us. now look everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and the bands even state this (allthough in the case of haste the day this is bullshit cause they kicked their guitar player out cause he was an athiest). when i go to a show i go to hear music. not to hear some speach about jesus and have religion shoved down my throat.

Yeah! Let's all be agreeable all the time, and make sure that we only say things that everybody watching us agrees because who really makes music to inspire/change people's mindsets?
That would be controversial.

...You're really complaining about Christian bands doing a little bit of between-song preaching?

Seriously?

Fuck, deal with it. Brand New asked us all to say a prayer when someone got hurt at the Indy show, it happens.
Brand New asked people to pray?
Do they have some sort of faith or was it just for good measure? haha.

[batmannj]

i like it a lot. took a few listens to go from "normal zao album" to "really good Zao album"

couldn't rank it yet though, too early to tell
I honestly think music wise, it is their best album since Liberate. I like the vocals, but the lyrics are choppier than Dan's usually are. I think it might be my favorite since Liberate to be honest. I really enjoy it.
I absolutely love The Glorious Unseen as they're one of the few "worship" bands I can get into. It's simple and genuine. I think worship music as a whole can be shallow, and I'm sick of the glamour and hype of it all. (ie. United, which you may really enjoy. I would suggest you listen if you haven't?)
I personally connect with God through instrumental music, as I kind of feel like worship in general has just become a cliche and has been boxed in as a certain style of music rather then an action.

Best worship experience ever: Sleeping Giant at cornerstone.
I have had some awesome experiences with heavier bands and getting into that worship mode. I love it haha.

[Colorblind!]

I honestly think music wise, it is their best album since Liberate. I like the vocals, but the lyrics are choppier than Dan's usually are. I think it might be my favorite since Liberate to be honest. I really enjoy it.

I have had some awesome experiences with heavier bands and getting into that worship mode. I love it haha.

Haha, agreed. I guess it helps when you combine passion for a style of music mixed with a worship experience.

Everybody should check out the Psalters.
WUT WUT

[Regards]

I absolutely love The Glorious Unseen as they're one of the few "worship" bands I can get into. It's simple and genuine. I think worship music as a whole can be shallow, and I'm sick of the glamour and hype of it all. (ie. United, which you may really enjoy. I would suggest you listen if you haven't?)
I personally connect with God through instrumental music, as I kind of feel like worship in general has just become a cliche and has been boxed in as a certain style of music rather then an action.

Best worship experience ever: Sleeping Giant at cornerstone.
Yeah, I can see how Worship has gotten to be a bit ridiculous at some places, and I'm totally with you on the instrumentals. One of the neatest experiences I've had was driving at like 4 in the morning running on no sleep with EITS on and the sun rising and just spending time with God. Excellent. I'll definitely check out United. And Sleeping Giant's video's alone give me goosebumps. I'm really hoping to see them this summer.

[Regards]

Haha, agreed. I guess it helps when you combine passion for a style of music mixed with a worship experience.

Everybody should check out the Psalters.
WUT WUT
love love love The Psalters. There's actually an official thread here in the music forums on them, but not much love.

[Colorblind!]

Yeah, I can see how Worship has gotten to be a bit ridiculous at some places, and I'm totally with you on the instrumentals. One of the neatest experiences I've had was driving at like 4 in the morning running on no sleep with EITS on and the sun rising and just spending time with God. Excellent. I'll definitely check out United. And Sleeping Giant's video's alone give me goosebumps. I'm really hoping to see them this summer.

There's just something that turned me right of United, it used to be my favorite worship band. I guess I'm just getting fed up with the megachurch mindset of bright lights and hype. I have no problem with worship I can feel is really honest, ie Glorious Unseen, Derek Webb... yeah, the list is getting pretty short unfortunately!
I know what you mean about the EITS experience. I was having insomnia one night and I listened through all of Caspians latest like three times, I don't know. I just had one of those experiences, I'm guessing you know what I'm talking about haha.

[Colorblind!]

love love love The Psalters. There's actually an official thread here in the music forums on them, but not much love.

Oh say word? I'll go read it, those dudes are crazy.
I heard about them through Shane Claiborne, make sure if you haven't you read his two books you do because I can't see anybody with faith read those books and go unchanged. He's made me take a pretty painful look at my life haha.