Recently we got asked to take on the great honour and responsibility of becoming God parents. Our friends had their second son and asked us to take on that role in his life. We're big parts of each others lives, hanging out, joining each other for food, support, love, encouragement and knowing we're always there for the other ones. We are so lucky to have these amazing people in our lives but having fantastic people for friends is often taken for granted. So why not take a few minutes out, give one of your closest friends a call, chat about subjects you don't usually have the chance to, invite them for a pint or simply drop them a text and see how they are doing.
This is one of the songs that was sang at our Godson's dedication service. I know his parents love it, we love it and judging by how it was sang throughout the church, it is loved. I hope you can listen and read the words and really think about your friendships as well as your relationship with God. Please enjoy this version of the song 'Mighty to Save', sung by Jeremy Camp.
Monday, 29 November 2010
Thursday, 25 November 2010
Speaking through Shows
There are so many new television series creeping out the woodwork at the moment, and successful ones which have been running for many seasons. This got me thinking about some of the ones that'd I've watched over the years.
Take Heroes for example. Normal people with extraordinary powers, superheroes in our society. I was really into it in the beginning, the first series was amazing, mindblowing. I'm sure it captured a massive audience but then people dropped away as the commitment to the show got a little too much. You can take this formula and apply it to religion, our faith, our trust in the Lord.
When you first start believing, when you first give your life to him, it's amazing, a completely overpowering experience, but as the relationship continues, you account obstacles, life often gets in the way, people lose interest, it's perhaps pushed to one side and eventually some end up stepping away from the church and our God. With some series though, it picks up towards the end, we want to view the extra special finale, people get back into it and want to witness the ending. Again, some people come back to the Lord in their hour of need, when they are laying on their death bed, before they die.
But really, when you step away from the television drama metaphor, we should all have Jesus in our lives from our first to last breath, trusting in him, letting him lead our lives. Some of us might be Misfits, some are perhaps Lost. Other people leave it too late and end up Six Feet Under without knowing him. We may find ourselves in times feeling like Mad Men, staring at the sky asking How Do You Want Me? Chuck all those Damages out of your House! 24 hours a day we should live for him, in our Bodies, in our Bones, throughout This Life and into the next. But if you can't take all of this in, remember...... There are plenty of Heroes out there, but only one really came back from the dead. JC. He rose!
Take Heroes for example. Normal people with extraordinary powers, superheroes in our society. I was really into it in the beginning, the first series was amazing, mindblowing. I'm sure it captured a massive audience but then people dropped away as the commitment to the show got a little too much. You can take this formula and apply it to religion, our faith, our trust in the Lord.
When you first start believing, when you first give your life to him, it's amazing, a completely overpowering experience, but as the relationship continues, you account obstacles, life often gets in the way, people lose interest, it's perhaps pushed to one side and eventually some end up stepping away from the church and our God. With some series though, it picks up towards the end, we want to view the extra special finale, people get back into it and want to witness the ending. Again, some people come back to the Lord in their hour of need, when they are laying on their death bed, before they die.
But really, when you step away from the television drama metaphor, we should all have Jesus in our lives from our first to last breath, trusting in him, letting him lead our lives. Some of us might be Misfits, some are perhaps Lost. Other people leave it too late and end up Six Feet Under without knowing him. We may find ourselves in times feeling like Mad Men, staring at the sky asking How Do You Want Me? Chuck all those Damages out of your House! 24 hours a day we should live for him, in our Bodies, in our Bones, throughout This Life and into the next. But if you can't take all of this in, remember...... There are plenty of Heroes out there, but only one really came back from the dead. JC. He rose!
Wednesday, 24 November 2010
Superhero Interview
Hello Tim from Superhero. How are you doing? Where are you currently?
Hi, were in the UK on tour. Were doing great thanks for asking.
How’s 2010 going thus far?
Super busy, lot's of travelling, but great. We are just back from a month in the USA and enjoying gigging in the UK for a bit, then out to Romania for a tour to finish out 2010
If people don’t know what you and your music are about, how would you describe yourself?
Well, we are full on missionaries. Our music is kick ass rock, but we are missionaries at heart. Superhero exists to take the gospel message out to the widest range of people we can. Our music is typically British I would say.
Where does the name of the band come from?
No big story I'm afraid, just needed a name, and it stuck!
When did you give your life to God and what made your life turn in God’s direction?
For me, it was when I was a kid. I saw how God made a big impact in my mum's life, she was a single parent and life was tough. God turned her life around and when I heard the gospel myself, I knew that God was calling me and I responded.
You've had four releases. Which would you say was your most successful and how would you define success?
Well, we love making records, love writing, recording and all that band stuff. I would say that our most recent record 'The Bicycle Thieves' defines us best as a band and has been recieved really well across the board. But, without doubt, success is all about lives changed, souls saved and young people stirred up to mission.
What’s your favourite track from your albums?
Favorite track is a song that will be on our new record called "Things we need for the Journey'
Which do you most enjoy playing live?
Again, a new song we just started playing live on this tour that will be on the new record called 'Children of the new Generation'
What message do you want to give through your music?
Easy, Jesus loves you, he is calling you and you need to respond. We are called to confront people with the Gospel.
Your latest album The Bicycle Theives helped to take you to an even wider global audience. What is that like, what are the benefits of that as a band and as a Christian band?
Good question! Actually, we have been playing all over the world for about 7 years.....but yes, this new album has helped take our music to a much wider audience. I think that for us, because we are so focused on reaching the lost, it all comes down to just making everything we do with Superhero point towards that goal and so bigger exposure means bigger crowds, bigger potential influence and more people hearing the message.
Back to your roots, how did you first come to music?
Bedroom, Record player, Punk Rock, Bob Dylan, The Beatles.....Started playing piano when I was 5 then learned the Flute to grade something....can't remember, then somone gave me a guitar and everything changed!! Started writing songs as a teenager, listen to a massive wide range of music from classical to rock and almost everything inbetween. I listened to so much music when I was younger. Now I listen to less, only because I spend so much time playing, writing and recording.
Where do you find influences?
For writing, mostly just life! People, things that get under my skin, of course, my faith. I'm not prolific when it comes to writing. I need to feel strongly about something to commit to writing about it. Books also, lots of reading and also film.
Who would you love to perform with, past or present?
lol....maybe for me, a duet with Bob Dylan or Thom Yorke. Share a stage with Rage against the Machine would have been fun!
What artists have you most loved sharing a stage with?
Well, our support act on the tour MPFREE, he's awesome. Bell X1 was a good night, Third Day gave us their hotel rooms once, and they are they nicest guys ever, 6 week tour with Nevertheless in the USA was good, I guess we have had the most fun with our friends as opposed to some of the bigger bands weve played with. 2 week tour with Skillet was pretty amazing though ; )
What are you currently listening to on your mp3 player?
Arcade Fire, Sufjan Stevens, Radiohead, Ben Folds.............I don't own an mp3 player!!
Who do you think is going to sum up the sound of 2010?
Erm.....no idea!!
God's Earth is a huge place and you've been taken to all corners of the globe as Superhero. Where have you most enjoyed visiting, what cultures have you embraced?
Always enjoy Switzerland, Holland and Scandinavia. Recently we have travelled the length and breadth of the United States, 39 states in 3 years!! We just got back from a month in California and I do love it there, and up as far as Oregon, Portland is maybe my favorite place in the world outside of Scotland! The Faroe Islands is maybe the strangest place......followed closely by the mid-west!! ; ) We have grown to love America thats for sure. We first arrived in early 2007 very sceptical and cynical of what we percieved to be the American way of life, typical European views. But having seen so much of it and met so many people we can see through the steriotypes and into the heart of the American psychi. That has been a very interesting journey for me.
What's the best live performance you’ve played?
Wow! Now my brain is having to work hard at 8.15am on a tuesday!! MORE COFFEE PLEASE! In recent times weve enjoyed mainstage at Flevo a couple of times, 6-8 thousand people, always nice to play to a big crowd. Headlining Plugfest in Switzerland this year 2010 was pretty amazing and also Playing at the Luis Palau Highland Festival in Inverness with Delirious playing one of their last ever shows was quite a night.
What do you miss the most when you’re on the road touring?
My family, my home, my coffee machine, my village............the list is waaaaay too long!
How has the Christian music scene changed since you've been a part of it?
We have so little to do with it that I don't really know! I think it's got smaller and there seems to be a big emphasis on anything that is classed as worship music and very little emphasis on mission........don't get me started!!
If Superhero was a Jelly Bean, what colour and flavour would you be and why?
Peanut butter and Mayonaise!
Some quick fire questions:
Tea or coffee?
Er....coffee
Summer or winter?
Winter
Superman or Batman?
Powdered toast man!
Mac or PC?
lol Mac
Bread or Wine?
Both please.
Favourite passage from the Bible?
Anything to do with the Nephalim.
What made you decide to put together a 3 year 194 date tour? The tour is called 'Battle for your Soul', whats the story behind the name?
Well, it's been an idea that I've been thinking about for a number of years and now we are finally underway.
We are missionaries, God has called us to confront people with the Gospel, we make no apologies for that. This is our calling, to partner with local churches everywhere to put on a quality event that people will love that ultimately grows to a point on the night were we confront people with the gospel. Its kind of militant and upfront, its not wishy washy, its in your face, its bold and its totally confident in the message it brings.
We are calling out the unsaved every night, calling them out to salvation through faith in Christ. We are boldly proclaiming the gospel message in the confidence that that is where the power is and that people are desperate to hear this good news.
We are engaging ourselves fully into the battle for peoples souls, our goal is to win as many to Christ as we can and play kick ass rock music at the same time ; )
Why 194 dates? How did you select the venues?
We always partner with the local church, this is essential to the ongoing discipleship of the people who respond. We will take the tour to anyone and any church that has a desire to reach the lost.
How does it feel being in a position where you can influence so many young people? Do you feel the pressure or does God talk easily through you and your music?
I feel a great sense of responsibility, but I also feel that we are exactly where God wants us to be, doing what he wants us to be doing, and I don't really subscribe to the idea that we, as a band, are trying to make christianity seem 'cooler' or something, so our confidence is in our message and that takes away any feelings that we need to 'produce the goods' it's God that does it, all we can do is be obedient.
What’s coming up in 2011 and next on the agenda for Superhero? Any plans yet for a follow up to The Bicycle Thieves?
New record is being worked on as we speak. Were very excited about it : ) It will, without question, be our best record ever! 2011 will see the 'Battle for your Soul' Tour continue in in the UK and USA.
As it is fast approaching…how will you be celebrating Christmas?
Not touring!!
And finally, how would you describe the love of God for all those people who perhaps get embarrassed about being a Christian, those who are unsure of their direction and of course those already on their journey with Christ?
God's love is too big to describe or fully understand, thats for sure, but what I would say is this. If you have made a decision to follow Christ, if you call yourself a christian, you need to give yourself fully to Him, submit your life completely and become a disciple.
He has the best plans for your life and will guide you if you let him. This world needs you to stand up and be counted, this world needs you to fully engage yourself in the battle for the soul.
Never, ever be embarrassed, never let the devil persuade you that people won't listen if you tell them about Jesus. It's a lie, plain and simple. Even if they mock you, beat you, disown you and kill you, it's still what we are called to do and when we start emersing ourselves into all that God has for us, put him first and make our worship a lifestyle and not a compilation CD we will see the kind of revivals that we are looking for. The latest fad or trend will come and go, but the ongoing eternal work of God will remain and is the key to seeing Christ return.......well you did ask!
Thanks Tim!
Hi, were in the UK on tour. Were doing great thanks for asking.
How’s 2010 going thus far?
Super busy, lot's of travelling, but great. We are just back from a month in the USA and enjoying gigging in the UK for a bit, then out to Romania for a tour to finish out 2010
If people don’t know what you and your music are about, how would you describe yourself?
Well, we are full on missionaries. Our music is kick ass rock, but we are missionaries at heart. Superhero exists to take the gospel message out to the widest range of people we can. Our music is typically British I would say.
Where does the name of the band come from?No big story I'm afraid, just needed a name, and it stuck!
When did you give your life to God and what made your life turn in God’s direction?
For me, it was when I was a kid. I saw how God made a big impact in my mum's life, she was a single parent and life was tough. God turned her life around and when I heard the gospel myself, I knew that God was calling me and I responded.
You've had four releases. Which would you say was your most successful and how would you define success?
Well, we love making records, love writing, recording and all that band stuff. I would say that our most recent record 'The Bicycle Thieves' defines us best as a band and has been recieved really well across the board. But, without doubt, success is all about lives changed, souls saved and young people stirred up to mission.
What’s your favourite track from your albums?
Favorite track is a song that will be on our new record called "Things we need for the Journey'
Which do you most enjoy playing live?
Again, a new song we just started playing live on this tour that will be on the new record called 'Children of the new Generation'
What message do you want to give through your music?
Easy, Jesus loves you, he is calling you and you need to respond. We are called to confront people with the Gospel.
Your latest album The Bicycle Theives helped to take you to an even wider global audience. What is that like, what are the benefits of that as a band and as a Christian band?
Good question! Actually, we have been playing all over the world for about 7 years.....but yes, this new album has helped take our music to a much wider audience. I think that for us, because we are so focused on reaching the lost, it all comes down to just making everything we do with Superhero point towards that goal and so bigger exposure means bigger crowds, bigger potential influence and more people hearing the message.
Back to your roots, how did you first come to music?
Bedroom, Record player, Punk Rock, Bob Dylan, The Beatles.....Started playing piano when I was 5 then learned the Flute to grade something....can't remember, then somone gave me a guitar and everything changed!! Started writing songs as a teenager, listen to a massive wide range of music from classical to rock and almost everything inbetween. I listened to so much music when I was younger. Now I listen to less, only because I spend so much time playing, writing and recording.
Where do you find influences?
For writing, mostly just life! People, things that get under my skin, of course, my faith. I'm not prolific when it comes to writing. I need to feel strongly about something to commit to writing about it. Books also, lots of reading and also film.
Who would you love to perform with, past or present?
lol....maybe for me, a duet with Bob Dylan or Thom Yorke. Share a stage with Rage against the Machine would have been fun!
What artists have you most loved sharing a stage with?
Well, our support act on the tour MPFREE, he's awesome. Bell X1 was a good night, Third Day gave us their hotel rooms once, and they are they nicest guys ever, 6 week tour with Nevertheless in the USA was good, I guess we have had the most fun with our friends as opposed to some of the bigger bands weve played with. 2 week tour with Skillet was pretty amazing though ; )
What are you currently listening to on your mp3 player?
Arcade Fire, Sufjan Stevens, Radiohead, Ben Folds.............I don't own an mp3 player!!
Who do you think is going to sum up the sound of 2010?
Erm.....no idea!!
God's Earth is a huge place and you've been taken to all corners of the globe as Superhero. Where have you most enjoyed visiting, what cultures have you embraced?
Always enjoy Switzerland, Holland and Scandinavia. Recently we have travelled the length and breadth of the United States, 39 states in 3 years!! We just got back from a month in California and I do love it there, and up as far as Oregon, Portland is maybe my favorite place in the world outside of Scotland! The Faroe Islands is maybe the strangest place......followed closely by the mid-west!! ; ) We have grown to love America thats for sure. We first arrived in early 2007 very sceptical and cynical of what we percieved to be the American way of life, typical European views. But having seen so much of it and met so many people we can see through the steriotypes and into the heart of the American psychi. That has been a very interesting journey for me.
Wow! Now my brain is having to work hard at 8.15am on a tuesday!! MORE COFFEE PLEASE! In recent times weve enjoyed mainstage at Flevo a couple of times, 6-8 thousand people, always nice to play to a big crowd. Headlining Plugfest in Switzerland this year 2010 was pretty amazing and also Playing at the Luis Palau Highland Festival in Inverness with Delirious playing one of their last ever shows was quite a night.
What do you miss the most when you’re on the road touring?
My family, my home, my coffee machine, my village............the list is waaaaay too long!
How has the Christian music scene changed since you've been a part of it?
We have so little to do with it that I don't really know! I think it's got smaller and there seems to be a big emphasis on anything that is classed as worship music and very little emphasis on mission........don't get me started!!
If Superhero was a Jelly Bean, what colour and flavour would you be and why?
Peanut butter and Mayonaise!
Some quick fire questions:
Tea or coffee?
Er....coffee
Summer or winter?
Winter
Superman or Batman?
Powdered toast man!
Mac or PC?
lol Mac
Bread or Wine?
Both please.
Favourite passage from the Bible?
Anything to do with the Nephalim.
What made you decide to put together a 3 year 194 date tour? The tour is called 'Battle for your Soul', whats the story behind the name?
Well, it's been an idea that I've been thinking about for a number of years and now we are finally underway.
We are missionaries, God has called us to confront people with the Gospel, we make no apologies for that. This is our calling, to partner with local churches everywhere to put on a quality event that people will love that ultimately grows to a point on the night were we confront people with the gospel. Its kind of militant and upfront, its not wishy washy, its in your face, its bold and its totally confident in the message it brings.
We are calling out the unsaved every night, calling them out to salvation through faith in Christ. We are boldly proclaiming the gospel message in the confidence that that is where the power is and that people are desperate to hear this good news.
We are engaging ourselves fully into the battle for peoples souls, our goal is to win as many to Christ as we can and play kick ass rock music at the same time ; )
Why 194 dates? How did you select the venues?
We always partner with the local church, this is essential to the ongoing discipleship of the people who respond. We will take the tour to anyone and any church that has a desire to reach the lost.
How does it feel being in a position where you can influence so many young people? Do you feel the pressure or does God talk easily through you and your music?
I feel a great sense of responsibility, but I also feel that we are exactly where God wants us to be, doing what he wants us to be doing, and I don't really subscribe to the idea that we, as a band, are trying to make christianity seem 'cooler' or something, so our confidence is in our message and that takes away any feelings that we need to 'produce the goods' it's God that does it, all we can do is be obedient. What’s coming up in 2011 and next on the agenda for Superhero? Any plans yet for a follow up to The Bicycle Thieves?
New record is being worked on as we speak. Were very excited about it : ) It will, without question, be our best record ever! 2011 will see the 'Battle for your Soul' Tour continue in in the UK and USA.
As it is fast approaching…how will you be celebrating Christmas?
Not touring!!
And finally, how would you describe the love of God for all those people who perhaps get embarrassed about being a Christian, those who are unsure of their direction and of course those already on their journey with Christ?
God's love is too big to describe or fully understand, thats for sure, but what I would say is this. If you have made a decision to follow Christ, if you call yourself a christian, you need to give yourself fully to Him, submit your life completely and become a disciple.
He has the best plans for your life and will guide you if you let him. This world needs you to stand up and be counted, this world needs you to fully engage yourself in the battle for the soul.
Never, ever be embarrassed, never let the devil persuade you that people won't listen if you tell them about Jesus. It's a lie, plain and simple. Even if they mock you, beat you, disown you and kill you, it's still what we are called to do and when we start emersing ourselves into all that God has for us, put him first and make our worship a lifestyle and not a compilation CD we will see the kind of revivals that we are looking for. The latest fad or trend will come and go, but the ongoing eternal work of God will remain and is the key to seeing Christ return.......well you did ask!
Thanks Tim!
Monday, 22 November 2010
Song of the Week | Sanctus Real 'Lead Me'
This week's song is by Sanctus Real. Not only because I have an upcoming interview with them and I wanted you all to hear them before reading about them, not only because this song is doing amazingly well in the Christian Charts, but also because it says a lot to me. As a new husband it's a role I always knew I would take on eventually, and even more so when I first met Amy 6 years ago. But men are men, and we tend to want to do everything ourselves. Whether that be navigate ourselves out of being lost rather than ask for directions, or feel like we must be the caveman figure and provide for our loved ones. However, we fail to realise, we can let go, and let God lead us. Ultimately, regardless of the roles we take on, son, brother, boyfriend, fiancé, husband, we want to do the best role we can, but remember, even when you take on the role of being a father, you have a father, one who loves and cares about you. Listen to the words guys, they make a lot of sense!
Sunday, 21 November 2010
iDol
UK in winter time. One of the times in the year where reality tv saturates the entire programming schedule. Whether it's z-listers wanting to get back in the world of celebrity, or wannabes trying to be somebodys, everyone is trying to better themselves these days, for the domestic viewing pleasure of you and yours. People want to become idols of our time, as popular as the iPod, a bigger craze than the Wii, a name used more often than Microsoft, Sony, Simon Cowell! These people do not realise that even if they are Cheryl Cole and have countless number ones, none of this matters if they don't have the actual chosen one in their life.
As much as I love the X Factor and watch it every week to see if Wagner get's kicked out or Katie manages to scrap through another sing off, the reality of the reality television format, is that it is so far away from reality. The reality of this world is to believe and trust in our Lord Jesus Christ and do your best by him and others to earn your place with him in heaven in the next life. Where are the bush tucker trials and Christmas number ones in that?
There are so many people without Jesus in their lives, without that hope, that figure to look out on, to trust in and to be guided by. How many votes do you think Jesus would get? What week would he make it to? Would he even be given that first audition? I doubt it, but remember, this life is your audition, he's the one on the judging panel!
As much as I love the X Factor and watch it every week to see if Wagner get's kicked out or Katie manages to scrap through another sing off, the reality of the reality television format, is that it is so far away from reality. The reality of this world is to believe and trust in our Lord Jesus Christ and do your best by him and others to earn your place with him in heaven in the next life. Where are the bush tucker trials and Christmas number ones in that?
There are so many people without Jesus in their lives, without that hope, that figure to look out on, to trust in and to be guided by. How many votes do you think Jesus would get? What week would he make it to? Would he even be given that first audition? I doubt it, but remember, this life is your audition, he's the one on the judging panel!
Thursday, 18 November 2010
Bandstand - Empire Nation
Bandstand is a new feature on crossreferences where I focus on a band or artist, give them a little plug as well as a bit of background info on them. First up...Empire Nation.
Empire Nation are a Cambridge based four piece who state in their biography that:
"Their modest aim is to change the world one riff at a time, using their faith, creativity and refusal to conform to the norm. They want to produce music that will make everyone from students to politicians sit up and take notice. To illuminate what matters, to reject the mundane, to live and play in the context of something bigger than a first impression; to challenge, magnify and amplify."
They say that even though they are split between Cambridge and Exeter, the fact they attend different churches is actually a plus point as they don't get on top of each other all the time.
Check out their first music video here and visit their website to listen to some of their tracks! I'll endeavour to get an interview soon!
Empire Nation are a Cambridge based four piece who state in their biography that:
"Their modest aim is to change the world one riff at a time, using their faith, creativity and refusal to conform to the norm. They want to produce music that will make everyone from students to politicians sit up and take notice. To illuminate what matters, to reject the mundane, to live and play in the context of something bigger than a first impression; to challenge, magnify and amplify."
Check out their first music video here and visit their website to listen to some of their tracks! I'll endeavour to get an interview soon!
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
Song of the Week | Tim Hughes 'Happy Day'
Me and the Mrs had this during our wedding ceremony exactly one month ago today.
After the service so many people said that the songs were perfectly chosen and added to what the day was all about. So I thought I'd bring you something special to me, and hopefully you'll enjoy it and have a happy day, praising the Lord!
After the service so many people said that the songs were perfectly chosen and added to what the day was all about. So I thought I'd bring you something special to me, and hopefully you'll enjoy it and have a happy day, praising the Lord!
Monday, 15 November 2010
Yet more interviews confirmed
We might infact be getting a little carried away with ourselevs but we have confirmed interviews with...
Chris August
and...
Sanctus Real
Awaiting answers coming back from Roo Walker, Sonicflood and a other artists previously mentioned. Keep an eye on the site for
Chris August
and...
Sanctus Real
Awaiting answers coming back from Roo Walker, Sonicflood and a other artists previously mentioned. Keep an eye on the site for
Friday, 12 November 2010
Video work for Phatfish Tour
My new brother managed to book the awesome band that is Phatfish to pitstop at his church St Andrew's in Leyland, Lancashire on 'The Light Tour' that they are currently venturing out on. Wanting to promote it he asked me to conjure up a promo type video to show in church, hopefully boost ticket sales and also, create a general Light Tour one to see if the promoter wanted to use it for the rest of the tour.
Check here for dates of the 5 leg tour
So here it is...the St Andrew's Promo Vid!
Check here for dates of the 5 leg tour
So here it is...the St Andrew's Promo Vid!
Thursday, 11 November 2010
3 more interviews confirmed
We have confirmed an additional 3 interviews with some amazing bands and artists!
Firstly...BeBe Vox!
Secondly...The Afters!
And last but by no means least...Superhero!
Answers to the questions coming soon!
Wednesday, 10 November 2010
Vids for Kids
I wanted to share with you a video I made for the youth group my wife is involved with.
I think i've been given a gift of video creation and wanted to use this in order to give soemthing back. So what better place to start than at the beginning of the bible and ask the youth what journey they are on? Using a combination of stock images and modern 'cool' music, I came up with this. Hopefully this is the start of more to come...
Track | 30 Seconds to Mars - Kings & Queens
I think i've been given a gift of video creation and wanted to use this in order to give soemthing back. So what better place to start than at the beginning of the bible and ask the youth what journey they are on? Using a combination of stock images and modern 'cool' music, I came up with this. Hopefully this is the start of more to come...
Track | 30 Seconds to Mars - Kings & Queens
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
Confirmed Interviews
After our first interview with the brilliant Philippa Hanna, we can announce that we have 2 other interviews confirmed with some awesome and fairly huge Christian artists!
Firstly...Roo Walker!
Firstly...Roo Walker!
and also...Sonicflood!
Exciting times! Keep an eye on the site for the interviews. And have a blessed day!
Big Church Day Out 2011
Some of the lineup for 2011's Big Church Day Out has been announced!
The event, which takes place in West Sussex on the last weekend in May has so far got the following names signed up to perform:
Philippa Hanna
The Gentlemen
Guvna B
LZ7
Lou Fellingham
Graham Kendrick
Newsboys
Chip Kendall
BeBe Vox
and Matt Redman
There are plenty of other acts on the bill and it promises to be an awesome weekend of music and worship.
A new website was launched yesterday (November 8th 2010) and at the same time also tickets became available. Get them as soon as possible and get ready for a Big Church Day Out.
http://www.bigchurchdayout.com/
The event, which takes place in West Sussex on the last weekend in May has so far got the following names signed up to perform:
The Gentlemen
Guvna B
LZ7
Lou Fellingham
Graham Kendrick
Newsboys
Chip Kendall
BeBe Vox
and Matt Redman
There are plenty of other acts on the bill and it promises to be an awesome weekend of music and worship.
A new website was launched yesterday (November 8th 2010) and at the same time also tickets became available. Get them as soon as possible and get ready for a Big Church Day Out.
http://www.bigchurchdayout.com/
Step by Step
I wanted to share with you all this video I created after a faith sharing weekend back in Autumn 2008.
Gracious Street Methodist Church were visited by Cliff College and this shows highlights from the first night's shared meal, to a youth bowling night, movie screening and worship.
Track | Casting Crowns - Lifesong
Gracious Street Methodist Church were visited by Cliff College and this shows highlights from the first night's shared meal, to a youth bowling night, movie screening and worship.
Track | Casting Crowns - Lifesong
Song of the Week | Casting Crowns 'Always Enough'
Casting Crowns are the band that brought me to Christ.
It was my now-wife's last ditch attempt to get me to see the truth and she put in front of me the Casting Crowns selt titled album. The track 'Who Am I' is the one that really got me, and combining this with other things that were going on in my life at the time, I embraced it.
From their most recent album 'Until The Whole World Hears' this Cross References track of the week makes me think and appreciate that even though there are people in this world who perhaps have too much and there are those at the other end of the scale who perhaps don't have enough, if you believe and trust in the Lord Jesus, it is Always Enough.
It was my now-wife's last ditch attempt to get me to see the truth and she put in front of me the Casting Crowns selt titled album. The track 'Who Am I' is the one that really got me, and combining this with other things that were going on in my life at the time, I embraced it.
From their most recent album 'Until The Whole World Hears' this Cross References track of the week makes me think and appreciate that even though there are people in this world who perhaps have too much and there are those at the other end of the scale who perhaps don't have enough, if you believe and trust in the Lord Jesus, it is Always Enough.
Monday, 8 November 2010
Philippa Hanna Interview
Interview with Philippa Hanna, August 2010.
If people don’t know what you and your music are about, how would you describe yourself?
Tea or coffee?
Hello Philippa Hanna. How are you doing? Where are you currently?
Hey there! I’m doing really well thanks. I’m currently in Sheffield preparing for a crazy week next week.
How’s 2010 going thus far?
It’s been a really different but totally amazing year. It’s been my first year as a ‘Mrs’. Joel and I got married in September so this year has been about us learning to function as a team and to support each other in our work. And to figure out who does what around the house!
As a relatively new Christian who was brought up in non-religious background, yet surrounded by music. I’ve been singing since I can remember and my earliest memory is of watching my dad on stage. I started writing songs when I was about 13 and began producing music. I had a bit of a turbulent time during my teen years and music was my only anchor really. I guess you could say I went ‘off the rails’. Trying to fit in and figure out who I was, I started hanging out with older girls and experimented with drinking, smoking etc. As I left school, (without much to show for it) I pursued a career in show business and started to write and sing for a living.
You became a Christian about 5 years ago, what made your life turn in God’s direction?
Whilst I was pursuing music I encountered so many disappointments. I did audition after audition and wrote for countless projects which never got off the ground. At the same I had a string of relationships which ended in tears. At my lowest point I was living with a boyfriend and the relationship had become really dark. I remember thinking – ‘this can’t be my life -something’s missing. It’s like I’ve gone totally off track’. It’s hard to describe how that feels but it was so depressing! Soon after, I meant a guy named Roo Walker who was playing at a local music venue. I was captivated by his personality and talent. We made friends and began making music together. After a couple of months of knowing Roo he told me he’d become a Christian. I was gob-smacked! I thought he’d lost the plot. I’d been interested in spirituality for years and in my darkest times had even visited healers and spiritualists. I was very confused about what I believed and talked to Roo about God on a regular basis. Finally after months of pondering, attending various events with Roo and His other Christian friends I found myself in a worship meeting in Sheffield where an artist named Godfrey Birtil was leading worship. I found myself asking Jesus to reveal himself to me. If he was real I wanted him to take over my life and do a better job then I’d been doing! From that moment things began to change and I started to understand who God was. He became real to me and I began my daily walk in relationship with the ‘Jesus’ that my friends had been sharing with me. After a short time I picked up guitar to learn worship songs and wound up writing a whole bunch of new material with my faith at the centre.
You’ve written a book about your experiences; tell us about it, how did you start putting the pen to paper?
As you might have guessed by now I like to talk! Always have done. And as I started to play my songs to people, I naturally broke up the set with stories. My friend (and now manager) Andy Baker, suggested I type them up and make a book out of them! I laughed at first but eventually I gave it a shot and it came together nicely.
So, getting married last year, congrats, is that where your single ‘Summer Bride’ comes from?
Not really 
I was inspired after watching many of my friends go through difficult break-ups. As Christians we often pin a lot of hope for happiness on marriage or romance and find ourselves broken. Marriage is one of the best gifts God has given me! But when all’s said and done it’s only Jesus that lasts forever and we can be sure He’ll never leave or forsake us.
I was inspired after watching many of my friends go through difficult break-ups. As Christians we often pin a lot of hope for happiness on marriage or romance and find ourselves broken. Marriage is one of the best gifts God has given me! But when all’s said and done it’s only Jesus that lasts forever and we can be sure He’ll never leave or forsake us.How do you think you’ve developed between ‘Watching Me’ and ‘Taste’?
I suppose that’s for the listener to judge! There’s a freshness and naivety about Watching me. Most of the songs were written within months of finding faith in God. With Taste, it’s a little bolder and more confident. I think as I began to write those songs I’d become more secure in God and more confident as an artist. I think playing live with great musicians has really improved me as a musician too.
‘Taste’ is still a pretty new release, how do you hope people react to the album?
I just hope it blesses people! So far, the reaction has been so positive. If people can say ‘that song really lifted me up when I hadn’t been attending church’ or ‘It makes me feel better to hear someone being honest about their struggles as a Christian’ then I think I’m doing my job! I think the tone of the album is that I’m a sinner saved by Grace and nothing more!
I first got on the stage with my dad when I was 2 years old. It was a terrifying experience and the mirror-ball freaked me out. I ended up being rescued in tears by my dad and the audience were in stitches. It took me a while to try again but with a bit of coaxing I ended up back on stage doing pubs and clubs when I was 18.
And how did the band come together?
It was really natural. I met Pete and Tim Dawson at a city-wide church leaders event. Pete was actually leading worship at the time. I found out he was a drummer and his brother Tim was a Bass player. My friend Andy Baker suggested we get together and have a jam and the rest is History! Naturally Roo was invited to play guitar too.
Who would you love to perform with, past or present?
I’d love to perform with Stevie Wonder! He’s my number one. Or perhaps John Mayer. In the Christian world I absolutely love John Foreman of the band Switchfoot.
What are you currently listening to on your mp3 player?
I’m loving Ellie Goulding! And also Mark Ronson’s new tracks are sounding great.
Who do you think is going to sum up the sound of 2010?
I think artists like Marina and the Diamonds, Lady Gaga and again Ellie, are the women of the moment! It’s a good time to be a lady in pop.
Best venue you’ve played?
I had a fantastic 2 nights at tiny little local venue (My video for Return to Love was shot there) Called the Lantern Theatre. It’s in Sheffield and is truly tiny! There are only about 90 seats crammed in and the atmosphere is gorgeous. Also raiding the costume cupboard was a riot!
What do you miss the most when you’re on the road touring?
My husband Joel He’s a rock to me! He also takes to the road sometimes to drum with his band The Gentlemen, so we miss each other!
He’s a rock to me! He also takes to the road sometimes to drum with his band The Gentlemen, so we miss each other!You visited Haiti weeks before the disaster. What was your time over there like and tell us about ‘Ave To Love’?
I was taken to Haiti by the organisation ‘Compassion’ www.compassionuk.org Compassion is a child sponsorship organisation who work with churches in the poorest countries in the world. It was very surreal staying in Haiti. It’s extremely hot and densely populated. From the moment we arrived, driving through the capital was an eye-opener. Every day is a fight for survival, and people have to do what they can to make a days wage. It’s just heaving with people and very cramped, yet you get a sense that the Haitians just take it all in their stride. It was a relief to visit the Compassion projects and see what a difference God’s love can make through sponsorship. The projects act like a safe-zone where children can be loved cared for and eventually develop into healthy, educated adults.
If Philippa Hanna was a Jelly Bean, what colour and flavour would you be and why?
I would be lemon flavoured, because I’m zingy, energetic and bright (most of the time).
Some quick fire questions:
Tea or coffee?Summer or winter?
Summer
Superman or Batman?
Superman
Mac or PC?
PC
Bread or Wine?
Wine
Favourite passage from the Bible?
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!
What’s next on the agenda for Philippa Hanna?
More writing for a third album! And an exciting trip to the other side of the world for a girl-band project I’m helping to coach.
And finally, how would you describe the love of God for all those people who perhaps get embarrassed about being a Christian, those who are unsure of their direction and of course those already on their journey with Christ?
We always need to keep our focus on Jesus. Not on what people think of us or what we want from the world. Everything else will fade away but God lasts forever. If we stay focused on that everything else falls into place!
Thanks Philippa.
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