From Starfield's concert in Burnaby earlier this year.
Christian Music News Source
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Starfield - Filled with Your Glory
Starfield performing "Filled with Your Glory" at the Overlake church in Redmond on 11/15/08
Christian Music News Source
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
STARFIELD TOP WINNER AT GMA CANADA 2008 COVENANT AWARDS
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) Nov. 3, 2008�Sparrow recording artist Starfield was the top winner at this year�s Covenant Awards held Friday, October
24. Taking home six trophies, the band won in every category for which it was nominated.
Starfield nabbed wins for �Group of the Year,� �Artist of the Year,� �Album of the Year� (I Will Go), �Praise & Worship Song of the Year�
(�Reign In Us�), �Modern Worship Album of the Year� (I Will Go), and �Recorded Song of the Year� (�Hosanna�). This year�s awards
marked the third consecutive �Group of the Year� win for Starfield as well as repeat wins in the categories of �Recorded Song of the Year�
and �Album of the Year.� The band now boasts a career total of 13 Covenant Awards.
"It's incredibly fulfilling to be recognized in Canada for what we're doing as a band,� says Starfield�s Tim Neufeld. �The people voting have
watched us grow up, have played alongside us, and have mentored us. We�re very proud to be a small part of what God is doing through music
in our home country.�
Produced by the Gospel Music Association Canada, the Covenant Awards is the pinnacle event in what is known as GMA Canada Week. Running
from October 21-25, activities included a national music conference, artist showcases, talent search competition, worship night and industry
awards banquet. The 30th Annual Covenant Awards took place at First Alliance Church in Calgary Alberta Canada. For more information and a
complete list of winners, visit www.gmacanada.ca.
Starfield gained strong momentum, achieving its best radio success, album sales and touring season in the band�s six-year history with its last
project Beauty in the Broken. Then inspired by its home congregation, Starfield began to write new songs of substance and style. The substance
became the theme and title of the album, I Will Go. The project has made Starfield�s musical mission very clear. The band now brings an intentional
message that encourages the listeners to help a hurting world. Currently Starfield is headlining its first U.S. tour, the �I Will Go� Tour, visiting more
than 20 cities through mid-November. For more information, visit www.starfieldonline.com.
About EMI CMG Label Group:
Brentwood, Tennessee-based EMI CMG Label Group is comprised of Sparrow Records, Forefront Records, and Credential Recordings, in addition
to providing A&R and marketing support for sixstepsrecords via a joint venture and licensing partnership. Balancing freedom, discipline, creativity,
profitability and ministry, EMI CMG Label Group strives for excellence in artist development. The Label Group is a division of EMI Christian Music
Group. For further information, please www.emicmg.com.
Chrisian Music News Source
24. Taking home six trophies, the band won in every category for which it was nominated.
Starfield nabbed wins for �Group of the Year,� �Artist of the Year,� �Album of the Year� (I Will Go), �Praise & Worship Song of the Year�
(�Reign In Us�), �Modern Worship Album of the Year� (I Will Go), and �Recorded Song of the Year� (�Hosanna�). This year�s awards
marked the third consecutive �Group of the Year� win for Starfield as well as repeat wins in the categories of �Recorded Song of the Year�
and �Album of the Year.� The band now boasts a career total of 13 Covenant Awards.
"It's incredibly fulfilling to be recognized in Canada for what we're doing as a band,� says Starfield�s Tim Neufeld. �The people voting have
watched us grow up, have played alongside us, and have mentored us. We�re very proud to be a small part of what God is doing through music
in our home country.�
Produced by the Gospel Music Association Canada, the Covenant Awards is the pinnacle event in what is known as GMA Canada Week. Running
from October 21-25, activities included a national music conference, artist showcases, talent search competition, worship night and industry
awards banquet. The 30th Annual Covenant Awards took place at First Alliance Church in Calgary Alberta Canada. For more information and a
complete list of winners, visit www.gmacanada.ca.
Starfield gained strong momentum, achieving its best radio success, album sales and touring season in the band�s six-year history with its last
project Beauty in the Broken. Then inspired by its home congregation, Starfield began to write new songs of substance and style. The substance
became the theme and title of the album, I Will Go. The project has made Starfield�s musical mission very clear. The band now brings an intentional
message that encourages the listeners to help a hurting world. Currently Starfield is headlining its first U.S. tour, the �I Will Go� Tour, visiting more
than 20 cities through mid-November. For more information, visit www.starfieldonline.com.
About EMI CMG Label Group:
Brentwood, Tennessee-based EMI CMG Label Group is comprised of Sparrow Records, Forefront Records, and Credential Recordings, in addition
to providing A&R and marketing support for sixstepsrecords via a joint venture and licensing partnership. Balancing freedom, discipline, creativity,
profitability and ministry, EMI CMG Label Group strives for excellence in artist development. The Label Group is a division of EMI Christian Music
Group. For further information, please www.emicmg.com.
Chrisian Music News Source
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Starfield guys just being a little goofy
Starfield concert in London. Just a cute vid of the guys from Starfield having some fun with the crowd
Christian Music News Source
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Starfield - The Hand That Holds The World
Starfield - The Hand That Holds The World Live @ EO Youth Day 2008, Gelredome.
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Underoath Are Blessed
A Grammy Award nomination may not be a big deal for some, but for a band whose humble beginnings were drudging around metal's underground, that's a damn big accomplishment.
Underoath have been in existence since 1998 and are on top of their career with the release of their latest album, Lost In The Sound Of Separation, though their success hasn't come without criticism.
While the band were in Toronto, ChartAttack had the chance to talk to bassist Grant Brandell about the new record and the overwhelming success the band have had.
ChartAttack: Underoath are a band that have really progressed their sound. Is it one of your goals to improve album after album?
Grant Brandell: Definitely. I think that we are always trying to progress and always trying to out-write the last album and do something better. We're definitely a band that likes to experiment and try new things. I feel like if we wrote the same album two or three times, it gets to be boring and lame and we wouldn't be into it. We're always trying to push ourselves, even with different elements of music and instruments and styles. We're definitely that kind of band.
Do you find that alienates fans sometimes?
Yeah, I think it can, but I think of it more like the fact that if I was on stage every night and wasn't really into it and wasn't really stoked on it, if I was a fan, that would be way more lame than seeing a band that maybe I liked their older stuff a little bit better, but at least they're doing what they love, you know? I think that's way cooler.
You can tell when a band is into what they're doing on stage and loving what they're doing. I think if it alienates fans and you don't have as many for the next record, that's not really the point anyway. We're definitely not trying to write music for everyone else. We're trying to write music that we love to play and if people like it, that's awesome. If they don't, that's cool, too.
You guys have definitely been getting the most mainstream attention of your career.
Yeah, which is funny because each album we've put out, at least the last two, have been heavier than the ones before it and not as radio-friendly. But it's cool, you know? I think people can tell that we're doing what we love to do and trying to push the bar and they respect that. They can sense that and latch onto it.
Has there been a negative side to the attention you've been getting lately?
Um, honestly, no, not really. I mean, I try not to read the whole message board things and forums online because, 90 per cent of the time, that's just bickering and stuff from kids anyway. That's the only thing I can think of that's negative that comes from this.
I personally think this is the best album that we've put out, so I'm stoked on it. I think every band says that. It's kind of cliche, but at the same time, it's what I believe.
At what point did you realize something was really happening for you?
Probably the year we were on Warped Tour. We had kind of played Warped Tour here and there before, but this was the first time we were doing the whole thing and you could just tell a difference in the shows. Like, the CD was selling really good, and shows started getting better and better and it was awesome. That was the first time I was like, "Wow, this is sweet."
And now you're doing massive tours. That's pretty amazing that your job, if you call it that, allows you to see the world.
A lot of times I feel bad complaining to friends at home, like, "Yeah, I've got to go out of the country for five weeks," and they're like, "Yeah, poor baby. You travel the world and do what you love. Rough." So you have to get a slap in the face to be humble about it, but it is honestly the best feeling ever. I feel totally blessed and just lucky to be able to do what I love doing for a career and see the world, you know? It's awesome.
Even just coming from the metal underground where you guys started, to be able to do it from that scene is amazing in itself.
Yeah, completely. Anything our band has done, like, five years ago started going past my expectations. Everything now is just like a cherry on top. It's amazing. I definitely feel blessed and appreciative of the chances and opportunities we've had.
Christian Music News Source
Underoath have been in existence since 1998 and are on top of their career with the release of their latest album, Lost In The Sound Of Separation, though their success hasn't come without criticism.
While the band were in Toronto, ChartAttack had the chance to talk to bassist Grant Brandell about the new record and the overwhelming success the band have had.
ChartAttack: Underoath are a band that have really progressed their sound. Is it one of your goals to improve album after album?
Grant Brandell: Definitely. I think that we are always trying to progress and always trying to out-write the last album and do something better. We're definitely a band that likes to experiment and try new things. I feel like if we wrote the same album two or three times, it gets to be boring and lame and we wouldn't be into it. We're always trying to push ourselves, even with different elements of music and instruments and styles. We're definitely that kind of band.
Do you find that alienates fans sometimes?
Yeah, I think it can, but I think of it more like the fact that if I was on stage every night and wasn't really into it and wasn't really stoked on it, if I was a fan, that would be way more lame than seeing a band that maybe I liked their older stuff a little bit better, but at least they're doing what they love, you know? I think that's way cooler.
You can tell when a band is into what they're doing on stage and loving what they're doing. I think if it alienates fans and you don't have as many for the next record, that's not really the point anyway. We're definitely not trying to write music for everyone else. We're trying to write music that we love to play and if people like it, that's awesome. If they don't, that's cool, too.
You guys have definitely been getting the most mainstream attention of your career.
Yeah, which is funny because each album we've put out, at least the last two, have been heavier than the ones before it and not as radio-friendly. But it's cool, you know? I think people can tell that we're doing what we love to do and trying to push the bar and they respect that. They can sense that and latch onto it.
Has there been a negative side to the attention you've been getting lately?
Um, honestly, no, not really. I mean, I try not to read the whole message board things and forums online because, 90 per cent of the time, that's just bickering and stuff from kids anyway. That's the only thing I can think of that's negative that comes from this.
I personally think this is the best album that we've put out, so I'm stoked on it. I think every band says that. It's kind of cliche, but at the same time, it's what I believe.
At what point did you realize something was really happening for you?
Probably the year we were on Warped Tour. We had kind of played Warped Tour here and there before, but this was the first time we were doing the whole thing and you could just tell a difference in the shows. Like, the CD was selling really good, and shows started getting better and better and it was awesome. That was the first time I was like, "Wow, this is sweet."
And now you're doing massive tours. That's pretty amazing that your job, if you call it that, allows you to see the world.
A lot of times I feel bad complaining to friends at home, like, "Yeah, I've got to go out of the country for five weeks," and they're like, "Yeah, poor baby. You travel the world and do what you love. Rough." So you have to get a slap in the face to be humble about it, but it is honestly the best feeling ever. I feel totally blessed and just lucky to be able to do what I love doing for a career and see the world, you know? It's awesome.
Even just coming from the metal underground where you guys started, to be able to do it from that scene is amazing in itself.
Yeah, completely. Anything our band has done, like, five years ago started going past my expectations. Everything now is just like a cherry on top. It's amazing. I definitely feel blessed and appreciative of the chances and opportunities we've had.
Christian Music News Source
Music Review: Underoath - Lost in the Sound of Separation
For quite a while, we were told that rock and roll was the devil’s music. Ever since Elvis shuffled his hips in such a grotesquely demonic way, rock music was a good kid’s best bet for going bad. But times have changed and rock music not only is a sanctuary for Christians, but some of the little buggers are making music that shreds eardrums better than many of those old Satanic bands could ever hope to do.
Enter Underoath, the metalcore Christian band with gobs of mainstream success, slots on “secular” festivals, and hordes of ear-splitting banshee fans in tow. These guys are inked up and look like a goshdarn rock band. Better still, they freaking sound like one.
Fans of Underoath won’t need an introduction, although things have been rough as of late. Not only does the band’s current line-up feature just one of the original members (drummer/vocalist Aaron Gillespie), but lead screamer Spencer Chamberlain went through substance abuse troubles that threatened to break-up the band. Substance abuse… in a Christian metalcore band… I never!
While some Christian musical acts can be easily criticized for a holier than thou approach, the muck and mire of Underoath rings true. Chamberlain’s personal strife and struggle displays a human side, his voice betraying a solid trust between body and mind as he bleats and blasts through the band’s hard-edged arrangements. As the replacement for the departed Dallas Taylor, Chamberlain’s a good fit.
Since Chamberlain joined Underoath, the band has released three records. 2008’s Lost in the Sound of Separation is the third, marking the sixth studio album overall.
The sextet roars out of the starting gate with the aptly-titled “Breathing in a New Mentality” to get things going. “Clean me up, show me how to live, tear me down, let me start again,” Spencer screams over crunching guitars.
And that sense of replenishment through devastation really marks the theme for Lost in the Sound of Separation. Spencer’s yelling and coarse shouting comes off as a grand form of catharsis and we’re along for the psychotherapy, experiencing rare moments of stability in the weariness of self-torture.
That sense of balance comes in the form of Gillespie, who offers moments of remarkably gentle singing to offset to Chamberlain’s angst-ridden boulevard. There is odd frailty, such as when Gillespie balances Chamberlain on the potent “A Fault Line, A Fault of Mine.” Witness: “Bear with me, this is all I have left” as Gillespie’s offering to God, perhaps on Chamberlain’s behalf.
“Emergency Broadcast: The End is Near” is the album’s best track, a driving rock track with nice pace and solid construction. “At the end of it all, we will be sold for parts,” Chamberlain posits. The tune features a tremendous breakdown as well, as the band plays lightly (for them, anyway) over Gillespie’s drums.
Lost in the Sound of Separation works because it goes beyond what a metalcore record should do and turns into a full-on confessional of sins. It is Underoath’s most deeply personal record, built in the fires of ache and self-torture with the ultimate goal of refinement never far from view. It is genuinely spiritual, yet avidly relatable to those among us who may not share the band’s views. There is more substance here than I expected and the band is willing to take risks, proving their worth in an ocean of Christian metalcore sound-a-likes.
Plus, when a metalcore band has the balls to wind things up with a track (“Desolate Earth: The End is Near”) that sounds like it belongs on Kid A, you gotta freaking give it up to them. Amen?
Christian Music News Source
Enter Underoath, the metalcore Christian band with gobs of mainstream success, slots on “secular” festivals, and hordes of ear-splitting banshee fans in tow. These guys are inked up and look like a goshdarn rock band. Better still, they freaking sound like one.
Fans of Underoath won’t need an introduction, although things have been rough as of late. Not only does the band’s current line-up feature just one of the original members (drummer/vocalist Aaron Gillespie), but lead screamer Spencer Chamberlain went through substance abuse troubles that threatened to break-up the band. Substance abuse… in a Christian metalcore band… I never!
While some Christian musical acts can be easily criticized for a holier than thou approach, the muck and mire of Underoath rings true. Chamberlain’s personal strife and struggle displays a human side, his voice betraying a solid trust between body and mind as he bleats and blasts through the band’s hard-edged arrangements. As the replacement for the departed Dallas Taylor, Chamberlain’s a good fit.
Since Chamberlain joined Underoath, the band has released three records. 2008’s Lost in the Sound of Separation is the third, marking the sixth studio album overall.
The sextet roars out of the starting gate with the aptly-titled “Breathing in a New Mentality” to get things going. “Clean me up, show me how to live, tear me down, let me start again,” Spencer screams over crunching guitars.
And that sense of replenishment through devastation really marks the theme for Lost in the Sound of Separation. Spencer’s yelling and coarse shouting comes off as a grand form of catharsis and we’re along for the psychotherapy, experiencing rare moments of stability in the weariness of self-torture.
That sense of balance comes in the form of Gillespie, who offers moments of remarkably gentle singing to offset to Chamberlain’s angst-ridden boulevard. There is odd frailty, such as when Gillespie balances Chamberlain on the potent “A Fault Line, A Fault of Mine.” Witness: “Bear with me, this is all I have left” as Gillespie’s offering to God, perhaps on Chamberlain’s behalf.
“Emergency Broadcast: The End is Near” is the album’s best track, a driving rock track with nice pace and solid construction. “At the end of it all, we will be sold for parts,” Chamberlain posits. The tune features a tremendous breakdown as well, as the band plays lightly (for them, anyway) over Gillespie’s drums.
Lost in the Sound of Separation works because it goes beyond what a metalcore record should do and turns into a full-on confessional of sins. It is Underoath’s most deeply personal record, built in the fires of ache and self-torture with the ultimate goal of refinement never far from view. It is genuinely spiritual, yet avidly relatable to those among us who may not share the band’s views. There is more substance here than I expected and the band is willing to take risks, proving their worth in an ocean of Christian metalcore sound-a-likes.
Plus, when a metalcore band has the balls to wind things up with a track (“Desolate Earth: The End is Near”) that sounds like it belongs on Kid A, you gotta freaking give it up to them. Amen?
Christian Music News Source
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Starfield Seeks to Stir Americans to Action Through U.S. Tour
Christian rock band Starfield will be returning to the United States this month to kick off their first headlining U.S. tour.
After successful “I Will Go” tours in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Europe, the award-winning Canadian group will be hitting more than 20 cities across the United States over the next two months including Sacramento, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Denver, Kansas City, St. Louis, Nashville, Pittsburgh, and Minneapolis.
“We’ve taken this tour out in Canada twice, once with Shane and Shane and a second time with Will Graham, the grandson of the great Billy Graham. It will be great to finally bring this show to our friends in the U.S.,” commented guitarist Jon Neufeld.
Joining Starfield on the U.S. tour will be their newest label mate, Above The Golden State, which signed with Sparrow Records earlier this year and released its self-titled label debut on July 22. The upcoming U.S. tour will be the band’s second in 2008. Earlier this year, Starfield joined Christian music duo Shane & Shane on their “Vision of You” tour.
While the “I Will Go” tour will feature a focus on worship with the aim of creating a family-friendly show, more than that, the band hopes it will encourage people to give time and energy, and not just money, to help those in need – as the song “I Will Go” sets out to do.
“This is a media-influenced generation, so for this tour we invested a lot of time and energy into the video, lighting and those kinds of elements,” commented lead singer Tim Neufeld. “But our real hope is that at the end of the night, people are left with a tug on their hearts to find new ways to love and serve the world around them.”
Before making landfall this month in the United States, Starfield visited 12 Canadian cities last month and took part in seven festivals in Europe before that.
“The shows have been amazing, uplifting, and humbling,” testified Neufeld during the tour in August.
Since the release of their second album, Beauty In The Broken, Starfield has achieved their best radio success to date, sold twice as many records in half as much time, and had their best touring season in their six-year history.
Originally formed by brothers Tim and Jon Neufeld, the four-man team has come to be today’s most awarded Canadian Christian band.
Their latest album, I Will Go, was released by Sparrow Records in North America on Mar. 25 and in the United Kingdom on Mar. 31. Singles from the album include "Reign in Us" and "Hosanna."
Christian Music News Source
After successful “I Will Go” tours in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Europe, the award-winning Canadian group will be hitting more than 20 cities across the United States over the next two months including Sacramento, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Denver, Kansas City, St. Louis, Nashville, Pittsburgh, and Minneapolis.
“We’ve taken this tour out in Canada twice, once with Shane and Shane and a second time with Will Graham, the grandson of the great Billy Graham. It will be great to finally bring this show to our friends in the U.S.,” commented guitarist Jon Neufeld.
Joining Starfield on the U.S. tour will be their newest label mate, Above The Golden State, which signed with Sparrow Records earlier this year and released its self-titled label debut on July 22. The upcoming U.S. tour will be the band’s second in 2008. Earlier this year, Starfield joined Christian music duo Shane & Shane on their “Vision of You” tour.
While the “I Will Go” tour will feature a focus on worship with the aim of creating a family-friendly show, more than that, the band hopes it will encourage people to give time and energy, and not just money, to help those in need – as the song “I Will Go” sets out to do.
“This is a media-influenced generation, so for this tour we invested a lot of time and energy into the video, lighting and those kinds of elements,” commented lead singer Tim Neufeld. “But our real hope is that at the end of the night, people are left with a tug on their hearts to find new ways to love and serve the world around them.”
Before making landfall this month in the United States, Starfield visited 12 Canadian cities last month and took part in seven festivals in Europe before that.
“The shows have been amazing, uplifting, and humbling,” testified Neufeld during the tour in August.
Since the release of their second album, Beauty In The Broken, Starfield has achieved their best radio success to date, sold twice as many records in half as much time, and had their best touring season in their six-year history.
Originally formed by brothers Tim and Jon Neufeld, the four-man team has come to be today’s most awarded Canadian Christian band.
Their latest album, I Will Go, was released by Sparrow Records in North America on Mar. 25 and in the United Kingdom on Mar. 31. Singles from the album include "Reign in Us" and "Hosanna."
Christian Music News Source
People injured in Abbotsford church floor collapse taking legal action
ABBOTSFORD, B.C. — Two people injured when a floor collapsed at a church in Abbotsford are taking legal action against the city and the operators of the church.
Elwin and Julia Witzke of Surrey were hurt when the dance floor at the Central Heights church gave way during a Christian rock concert on April 25.
In a writ filed in B.C. Supreme Court, they say the Mennonite church and four other defendants were negligent.
Seventy people crashed through the floor and 44 were reportedly injured during a concert by the band Starfield.
A class-action lawsuit filed shortly after the collapse is also making its way through the courts.
No statements of defence have been filed and the allegations are unproven in court.
Christian Music News Source
Elwin and Julia Witzke of Surrey were hurt when the dance floor at the Central Heights church gave way during a Christian rock concert on April 25.
In a writ filed in B.C. Supreme Court, they say the Mennonite church and four other defendants were negligent.
Seventy people crashed through the floor and 44 were reportedly injured during a concert by the band Starfield.
A class-action lawsuit filed shortly after the collapse is also making its way through the courts.
No statements of defence have been filed and the allegations are unproven in court.
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Starfield - I Will Go
Sounds like … a lighter, less muscular version of Hillsong United with nods to Vertical Horizon, Leeland, By the Tree, and Lincoln Brewster.
At a glance … little has changed about the way Starfield attacks its brand of melodic, anthemic, rocking-but-not-really style of modern worship.
At a time when career longevity is often short for Christian bands—particularly modern worship bands—it's interesting that Sparrow Records is still holding fast to Starfield. Already on their third album for the label, the Canadian band has released a new disc like clockwork every two years since their 2004 stateside debut. That self-titled effort released with little fanfare, failing to distinguish the foursome from the glut of modern worship hopefuls at the time. Starfield's follow-up Beauty in the Broken fared a little better, outpacing the first album 2-to-1 commercially. Musically, it found the rockers stretching their wings with a few Switchfoot-styled rockers, only to rely on middling modern worship songs for most of the rest.
But then it's fans that decide a band's success, not critics, and Starfield remains one of the hottest tickets in Christian music, at least in their Canadian homeland. They're also one of the most decorated, with an assortment of Juno, Covenant, and Shai awards to their credit. Starfield also keeps a busier tour schedule than most, logging in hundreds of concert dates a year for enthusiastic audiences.
All of the above more than justifies the release of I Will Go, though once again the group fails to push the creative envelope. Opting for more of their blandly melodic pop/rock style, they sound like Hillsong United in approach, only much tamer and disciplined in execution. Case in point, their cover of United's "Hosanna" is robbed of its apocalyptic fervor, reduced to a four-minute by-the-numbers radio single (points off for the truncated bridge, too)....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
At a glance … little has changed about the way Starfield attacks its brand of melodic, anthemic, rocking-but-not-really style of modern worship.
At a time when career longevity is often short for Christian bands—particularly modern worship bands—it's interesting that Sparrow Records is still holding fast to Starfield. Already on their third album for the label, the Canadian band has released a new disc like clockwork every two years since their 2004 stateside debut. That self-titled effort released with little fanfare, failing to distinguish the foursome from the glut of modern worship hopefuls at the time. Starfield's follow-up Beauty in the Broken fared a little better, outpacing the first album 2-to-1 commercially. Musically, it found the rockers stretching their wings with a few Switchfoot-styled rockers, only to rely on middling modern worship songs for most of the rest.
But then it's fans that decide a band's success, not critics, and Starfield remains one of the hottest tickets in Christian music, at least in their Canadian homeland. They're also one of the most decorated, with an assortment of Juno, Covenant, and Shai awards to their credit. Starfield also keeps a busier tour schedule than most, logging in hundreds of concert dates a year for enthusiastic audiences.
All of the above more than justifies the release of I Will Go, though once again the group fails to push the creative envelope. Opting for more of their blandly melodic pop/rock style, they sound like Hillsong United in approach, only much tamer and disciplined in execution. Case in point, their cover of United's "Hosanna" is robbed of its apocalyptic fervor, reduced to a four-minute by-the-numbers radio single (points off for the truncated bridge, too)....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Starfield - My Generation EP
Starfield returns with a short (and I mean short) EP. Named for the first song, "My Generation," this EP just is equivalent to waving a big steak in front of a hungry dog. However, instead of a hungry dog, there are the hundreds of Starfield fans, myself included, who can't wait for their next full-length album.
As with the self-titled first major release, this EP has very meaningful and inspirational songs. Unfortunately, the problem is they sound just like the the songs on their last release. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it is a foreshadowing of the next release. Hopefully the next LP, Beauty In The Broken will show maturity from the last....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
As with the self-titled first major release, this EP has very meaningful and inspirational songs. Unfortunately, the problem is they sound just like the the songs on their last release. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it is a foreshadowing of the next release. Hopefully the next LP, Beauty In The Broken will show maturity from the last....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Starfield - Beauty in the Broken
Sounds like … the worshipful modern pop/rock of By the Tree, Delirious, Paul Colman, Sonicflood, and MercyMe, with some obvious nods to Coldplay and Switchfoot.
At a glance … despite solid production and worshipful intentions, Starfield's latest sounds far too derivative of too many other better bands, both Christian and secular.
Despite the success of "Filled with Your Glory," Starfield met with mixed reactions upon the release of their self-titled debut in 2004. Those who thought the Canadian band's modern worship sound was too formulaic, however, should check out "My Generation," the lead single from their follow-up effort Beauty in the Broken. It's a killer modern rocker about the world's need for God that echoes the anthemic heights of Switchfoot's "Meant to Live." Yet just when it seems like a bold leap forward for Starfield, the album is a downhill rollercoaster ride from there.
There are flashes of catchy, passionate worship music to be found, for sure. The prayerful "Captivate" is simple Brit-jangle pop reminiscent of Delirious, while the corporate-friendly
"Unashamed" provides thoughtful lyrics on humility and grace. The thunderous worship of "Great Is the Lord" benefits from a strong guitar hook, and "Shipwreck" lives up to the album title as an ambient ballad of surrender.
However, even the title to "Love Is the Reversal" sounds plagiarized (along with the lyrics and melody) from Switchfoot, and "Obsession" seems like it was lifted straight from Coldplay's X&Y. Adapting a style with distinction is one thing, copying it with diminishing results is another. More often, Starfield sounds derivative of By the Tree and Tim Hughes, particularly on "The Hand That Holds the World" and "Glorious One," while "Son of God" is another example of hackneyed songwriting rationalized by worshipful intent....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
At a glance … despite solid production and worshipful intentions, Starfield's latest sounds far too derivative of too many other better bands, both Christian and secular.
Despite the success of "Filled with Your Glory," Starfield met with mixed reactions upon the release of their self-titled debut in 2004. Those who thought the Canadian band's modern worship sound was too formulaic, however, should check out "My Generation," the lead single from their follow-up effort Beauty in the Broken. It's a killer modern rocker about the world's need for God that echoes the anthemic heights of Switchfoot's "Meant to Live." Yet just when it seems like a bold leap forward for Starfield, the album is a downhill rollercoaster ride from there.
There are flashes of catchy, passionate worship music to be found, for sure. The prayerful "Captivate" is simple Brit-jangle pop reminiscent of Delirious, while the corporate-friendly
"Unashamed" provides thoughtful lyrics on humility and grace. The thunderous worship of "Great Is the Lord" benefits from a strong guitar hook, and "Shipwreck" lives up to the album title as an ambient ballad of surrender.
However, even the title to "Love Is the Reversal" sounds plagiarized (along with the lyrics and melody) from Switchfoot, and "Obsession" seems like it was lifted straight from Coldplay's X&Y. Adapting a style with distinction is one thing, copying it with diminishing results is another. More often, Starfield sounds derivative of By the Tree and Tim Hughes, particularly on "The Hand That Holds the World" and "Glorious One," while "Son of God" is another example of hackneyed songwriting rationalized by worshipful intent....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Starfield - Starfield
They are a highly praised Canadian band, and now Sparrow Records has brought them to America. Bringing their brand of worship-filled acoustic pop/rock, Starfield releases their self-titled debut. MercyMe comparisons are present, as well as ties to many other contemporary bands flooding the market. But fans of the genre will feel right at home, as well as anyone looking for a solid disc of praise to God.
The album opens with the prelude which could easily have been placed as an intro on the next track, "Filled with Your Glory," because that’s all it essentially is. The song itself is very catchy, as is the entire disc. But there is nothing very special about Starfield’s music that sets them apart from the rest of the pack.
However, if songs of praise and worship are your thing (And they should be everyone’s "thing"), then you might find a soft spot for Starfield. All of this disc’s eleven songs (not counting the prelude) are about beautiful encounters with God, and longing to never leave His presence. "Over My Head" is seven-plus minutes, as it marvels in wonder and awe at the beauty of God....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
The album opens with the prelude which could easily have been placed as an intro on the next track, "Filled with Your Glory," because that’s all it essentially is. The song itself is very catchy, as is the entire disc. But there is nothing very special about Starfield’s music that sets them apart from the rest of the pack.
However, if songs of praise and worship are your thing (And they should be everyone’s "thing"), then you might find a soft spot for Starfield. All of this disc’s eleven songs (not counting the prelude) are about beautiful encounters with God, and longing to never leave His presence. "Over My Head" is seven-plus minutes, as it marvels in wonder and awe at the beauty of God....
Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review
Starfield Teams Up with Will Graham for Canada Tour
Christian rock band Starfield is on the second leg of their Canada “I Will Go” tour after making a number of appearances in the United Kingdom and Europe.
The four-member group, which originated from Canada, will be visiting 12 Canadian cities this month alongside evangelist Will Graham and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
According to Starfield guitarist/vocalist Jon Neufeld, the first two shows in Canada – in Belleville and Barrie – were both “great.”
“We felt lifted up and carried by the energetic crowds in both these places after long setups left us scrambling to start the shows on time,” he wrote in the band’s official blog Monday. “Thankfully both shows went on without a hiccup.
“Also, it’s been great teaming with the BGEA (Billy Graham Evangelistic Association) and having Will Graham (Billy’s Grandson) come on as a speaker on this tour,” Neufeld added. “He even wore a Starfield shirt last night (what a good sport).”
Before making landfall on Canadian ground, Starfield took part in seven festivals in Europe. The band performed at the UK’s Soul Survivor on Aug. 13 and 18, Flevo in the Netherlands on Aug. 14, the Revo Fest in Germany on Aug. 15 and at the Fuel Festival in Belfast, Ireland, Aug. 16. More recently, Starfield performed on the main stage at the Greenbelt Festival on Aug. 22.
“All beautiful places that we’ve briefly experienced … I feel like I could’ve easily spent a week in each of these places, experiencing the local culture and the amazing natural beauty all around,” Neufeld recalled last month.
“The shows have been amazing, uplifting, and humbling,” he added. “It turns out there’s people that know our songs out here. It’s pretty amazing.”
After their Canada tour, Starfield will be joined by new Sparrow Records artist Above the Golden State in October for a 35-city tour that will run through November.
Looking further down the line, the band is also confirmed to headline Scotland's Frenzy Festival in June 2009.
Later this month, on Sept. 16, the nominees for the Gospel Music Association Canada (GMAC)’s 30th Annual Covenant Awards will be announced. Last year, Starfield was nominated for 5 GMAC Covenant Awards including Artist Of The Year, Group Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Recorded Song Of The Year and Rock Song Of The Year.
This year’s Covenant Awards will be held in Calgary, Alberta, on Oct. 24.
Christian Music News Source
The four-member group, which originated from Canada, will be visiting 12 Canadian cities this month alongside evangelist Will Graham and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
According to Starfield guitarist/vocalist Jon Neufeld, the first two shows in Canada – in Belleville and Barrie – were both “great.”
“We felt lifted up and carried by the energetic crowds in both these places after long setups left us scrambling to start the shows on time,” he wrote in the band’s official blog Monday. “Thankfully both shows went on without a hiccup.
“Also, it’s been great teaming with the BGEA (Billy Graham Evangelistic Association) and having Will Graham (Billy’s Grandson) come on as a speaker on this tour,” Neufeld added. “He even wore a Starfield shirt last night (what a good sport).”
Before making landfall on Canadian ground, Starfield took part in seven festivals in Europe. The band performed at the UK’s Soul Survivor on Aug. 13 and 18, Flevo in the Netherlands on Aug. 14, the Revo Fest in Germany on Aug. 15 and at the Fuel Festival in Belfast, Ireland, Aug. 16. More recently, Starfield performed on the main stage at the Greenbelt Festival on Aug. 22.
“All beautiful places that we’ve briefly experienced … I feel like I could’ve easily spent a week in each of these places, experiencing the local culture and the amazing natural beauty all around,” Neufeld recalled last month.
“The shows have been amazing, uplifting, and humbling,” he added. “It turns out there’s people that know our songs out here. It’s pretty amazing.”
After their Canada tour, Starfield will be joined by new Sparrow Records artist Above the Golden State in October for a 35-city tour that will run through November.
Looking further down the line, the band is also confirmed to headline Scotland's Frenzy Festival in June 2009.
Later this month, on Sept. 16, the nominees for the Gospel Music Association Canada (GMAC)’s 30th Annual Covenant Awards will be announced. Last year, Starfield was nominated for 5 GMAC Covenant Awards including Artist Of The Year, Group Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Recorded Song Of The Year and Rock Song Of The Year.
This year’s Covenant Awards will be held in Calgary, Alberta, on Oct. 24.
Christian Music News Source
Friday, September 19, 2008
Starfield Teams Up with Will Graham for Canada Tour
By Josh Kimball
Christian Post Reporter
Wed, Sep. 10 2008 10:59 AM EDT
Christian rock band Starfield is on the second leg of their Canada “I Will Go” tour after making a number of appearances in the United Kingdom and Europe.
The four-member group, which originated from Canada, will be visiting 12 Canadian cities this month alongside evangelist Will Graham and the Billy Graham Evangelistic
Association.
According to Starfield guitarist/vocalist Jon Neufeld, the first two shows in Canada – in Belleville and Barrie – were both “great.”
“We felt lifted up and carried by the energetic crowds in both these places after long setups left us scrambling to start the shows on time,” he wrote in the band’s official blog
Monday. “Thankfully both shows went on without a hiccup.
“Also, it’s been great teaming with the BGEA (Billy Graham Evangelistic Association) and having Will Graham (Billy’s Grandson) come on as a speaker on this tour,” Neufeld
added. “He even wore a Starfield shirt last night (what a good sport).”
Before making landfall on Canadian ground, Starfield took part in seven festivals in Europe. The band performed at the UK’s Soul Survivor on Aug. 13 and 18, Flevo in the
Netherlands on Aug. 14, the Revo Fest in Germany on Aug. 15 and at the Fuel Festival in Belfast, Ireland, Aug. 16. More recently, Starfield performed on the main stage at the
Greenbelt Festival on Aug. 22.
“All beautiful places that we’ve briefly experienced … I feel like I could’ve easily spent a week in each of these places, experiencing the local culture and the amazing natural
beauty all around,” Neufeld recalled last month.
“The shows have been amazing, uplifting, and humbling,” he added. “It turns out there’s people that know our songs out here. It’s pretty amazing.”
After their Canada tour, Starfield will be joined by new Sparrow Records artist Above the Golden State in October for a 35-city tour that will run through November.
Looking further down the line, the band is also confirmed to headline Scotland's Frenzy Festival in June 2009.
Later this month, on Sept. 16, the nominees for the Gospel Music Association Canada (GMAC)’s 30th Annual Covenant Awards will be announced. Last year, Starfield was
nominated for 5 GMAC Covenant Awards including Artist Of The Year, Group Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Recorded Song Of The Year and Rock Song Of The Year.
This year’s Covenant Awards will be held in Calgary, Alberta, on Oct. 24.
Christian Music News Source
Christian Post Reporter
Wed, Sep. 10 2008 10:59 AM EDT
Christian rock band Starfield is on the second leg of their Canada “I Will Go” tour after making a number of appearances in the United Kingdom and Europe.
The four-member group, which originated from Canada, will be visiting 12 Canadian cities this month alongside evangelist Will Graham and the Billy Graham Evangelistic
Association.
According to Starfield guitarist/vocalist Jon Neufeld, the first two shows in Canada – in Belleville and Barrie – were both “great.”
“We felt lifted up and carried by the energetic crowds in both these places after long setups left us scrambling to start the shows on time,” he wrote in the band’s official blog
Monday. “Thankfully both shows went on without a hiccup.
“Also, it’s been great teaming with the BGEA (Billy Graham Evangelistic Association) and having Will Graham (Billy’s Grandson) come on as a speaker on this tour,” Neufeld
added. “He even wore a Starfield shirt last night (what a good sport).”
Before making landfall on Canadian ground, Starfield took part in seven festivals in Europe. The band performed at the UK’s Soul Survivor on Aug. 13 and 18, Flevo in the
Netherlands on Aug. 14, the Revo Fest in Germany on Aug. 15 and at the Fuel Festival in Belfast, Ireland, Aug. 16. More recently, Starfield performed on the main stage at the
Greenbelt Festival on Aug. 22.
“All beautiful places that we’ve briefly experienced … I feel like I could’ve easily spent a week in each of these places, experiencing the local culture and the amazing natural
beauty all around,” Neufeld recalled last month.
“The shows have been amazing, uplifting, and humbling,” he added. “It turns out there’s people that know our songs out here. It’s pretty amazing.”
After their Canada tour, Starfield will be joined by new Sparrow Records artist Above the Golden State in October for a 35-city tour that will run through November.
Looking further down the line, the band is also confirmed to headline Scotland's Frenzy Festival in June 2009.
Later this month, on Sept. 16, the nominees for the Gospel Music Association Canada (GMAC)’s 30th Annual Covenant Awards will be announced. Last year, Starfield was
nominated for 5 GMAC Covenant Awards including Artist Of The Year, Group Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Recorded Song Of The Year and Rock Song Of The Year.
This year’s Covenant Awards will be held in Calgary, Alberta, on Oct. 24.
Christian Music News Source
Members
* Tim Neufeld (lead vocals, guitars)
* Jon Neufeld (guitars, vocals)
* Gordie Cochran (drums)
* David Crisp (bass guitar)
Starfield was originally formed by brothers Tim and Jon Neufeld, both from Winnipeg. Since then Shaun Huberts and Gordie Cochran, both of Victoria, British Columbia, have joined the
band. Shaun Huberts left the band 9 August 2006, after his last performance at the DCLA Convention in Anaheim, CA. His replacement is Dave Crisp. The band moved back to Canada
(Abbotsford, British Columbia) in the fall of 2006 after several years of living in Nashville.
Christian Music Links!
* Jon Neufeld (guitars, vocals)
* Gordie Cochran (drums)
* David Crisp (bass guitar)
Starfield was originally formed by brothers Tim and Jon Neufeld, both from Winnipeg. Since then Shaun Huberts and Gordie Cochran, both of Victoria, British Columbia, have joined the
band. Shaun Huberts left the band 9 August 2006, after his last performance at the DCLA Convention in Anaheim, CA. His replacement is Dave Crisp. The band moved back to Canada
(Abbotsford, British Columbia) in the fall of 2006 after several years of living in Nashville.
Christian Music Links!
Albums
Starfield
Starfield's self-published debut album, was released in 2001 by independent Starfield Music Group (Canada Only - possibly local to Winnipeg).
Tumbling After
Starfield's second independent album, Tumbling After (Canada only), was released through CMC Distribution in 2003 and featured the hit "Filled With Your Glory".
Starfield
Starfield's first international release was the self-titled album Starfield on Sparrow Records in 2004.[1]
The album contained a re-recording of "Filled With Your Glory". The song "Tumbling After" appeared on season two of the television show Joan of Arcadia.
The band released an EP called My Generation in 2006.
Beauty in the Broken
Their second album, Beauty in the Broken, was released on Sparrow Records on May 16, 2006.[1] Their first single from the album, My Generation, rose the United States R&R Christian
charts. The album includes one song recorded with Chris Tomlin ("Son of God"). The album immediately soared to the top of the Canadian Christian music sales chart and remained at the
#1 position for three months. 2006 Year End charts placed the album at #2 for the year in Canada at Christian retail stores. The album peaked at #31 in the United States on the Billboard
Top Christian Albums chart, and at #45 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers chart.
I Will Go
I Will Go is Starfield's third album released by Sparrow Records. It was released on March 25, 2008 in North America and on March 31, 2008 in the United Kingdom.[1] Singles from the
album include "Reign in Us" and "Hosanna".
Christian Music Links!
Starfield's self-published debut album, was released in 2001 by independent Starfield Music Group (Canada Only - possibly local to Winnipeg).
Tumbling After
Starfield's second independent album, Tumbling After (Canada only), was released through CMC Distribution in 2003 and featured the hit "Filled With Your Glory".
Starfield
Starfield's first international release was the self-titled album Starfield on Sparrow Records in 2004.[1]
The album contained a re-recording of "Filled With Your Glory". The song "Tumbling After" appeared on season two of the television show Joan of Arcadia.
The band released an EP called My Generation in 2006.
Beauty in the Broken
Their second album, Beauty in the Broken, was released on Sparrow Records on May 16, 2006.[1] Their first single from the album, My Generation, rose the United States R&R Christian
charts. The album includes one song recorded with Chris Tomlin ("Son of God"). The album immediately soared to the top of the Canadian Christian music sales chart and remained at the
#1 position for three months. 2006 Year End charts placed the album at #2 for the year in Canada at Christian retail stores. The album peaked at #31 in the United States on the Billboard
Top Christian Albums chart, and at #45 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers chart.
I Will Go
I Will Go is Starfield's third album released by Sparrow Records. It was released on March 25, 2008 in North America and on March 31, 2008 in the United Kingdom.[1] Singles from the
album include "Reign in Us" and "Hosanna".
Christian Music Links!
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