“Between the Shadow and the Sun” unveils UK artist Lucy Grimble’s journey over the last three years from a creative, spiritual, and mental standpoint. Starting during the pandemic, the new concept album unpacks trauma, doubt, unrest, and loss with unmatched honesty.
Over 10 songs, she artistically tells the shared human story of our world and its recent events, while soaking listeners in the lightness of hoping in God. The themes of darkness and light became a framework for Lucy, reflecting where she found herself and unlocking new songs in the process.
“I found that pain and suffering cannot be divorced from the Christian walk,” Lucy says, “and in fact, the Christian walk is so often learning how to trust God in the midst of pain.” From introspective tracks such as “Shedding Skin,” “Ready for the Dawn,” and “Plans,” to uplifting tunes like “Hope (Again)” and “Spacious Place,” the new album is filled with God’s constancy, kindness, and mercy.
Through this, Lucy hopes to remind listeners of the trust one can place in God, commenting that “He is a friend in great darkness.”
Built on intricate piano parts and vocal textures, folk-infused melodies blending synth/electronic sounds, and an overall soft groove, “Between the Shadow and the Sun” has a broad appeal and speaks to those questioning faith and fighting for hope who aren’t necessarily finding it in more mainstream expressions of worship.
Lucy Grimble’s New Concept Album Unveils Fresh Expressions Of Worship
On October 6th, six-time GRAMMY-winner Amy Grantwill release a long-awaited, fan-anticipated project, Lead Me On Live 1989. Originally recorded during her Lead Me On World Tour in 1988-89, and mostly unreleased except for a few songs included on the 20th Anniversary Edition of the original “Lead Me On” album, this new collection of 18 tracks from the Ft. Worth, TX tour stop includes the full-concert experience.
Pulled from the vault 34 years later, this is the first-time fans will have the opportunity to experience all the songs from Grant’s biggest tour up to that point in her career. Prior to Grant’s global pop-star success with Heart In Motion, 1988-89 was a time of incredible audience growth for Grant and found her pulling out all the stops for an unparalleled experience.
Says Grant, “When I first heard the recordings from 1989 from the Lead Me OnTour, the thing that bowled me over was just what a talented band I had on the road. I have loved every band configuration I’ve ever had on the road, and all are so special to me, but there was something unique about that group of players and singers during the Lead Me On Tour.
First of all, there were so many of us on the stage and so many types of instrumentation like harmonica solos, flute solos, saxophones, mandolins, lots of keyboards, and stacks of vocals, it just felt like one big family reunion every night. The size and scope of the production and the big experience we were trying to create also made this tour very special.
The energy of the crowd felt like an infinite number 8 with energy coming from us on stage, circling through the audience, and then coming back to us, It brought back so many amazing memories. I’m so grateful we captured that moment in time.”
In the midst of those big-room moments, Grant still did what she does best: connect with people. Sometimes with a look, a wave, a smile, and at least one point every evening, during the song, “Everywhere I Go,” she asked her fans to join in on the connection by doing two simple things: Dip and sway.
Even three-plus decades later, these performances from Grant and this band underscore an artist coming into her own ever-changing identity (one that would morph again three years later with the worldwide success of Heart In Motion).
“What I loved with the Lead Me On Tour was that I got thrown into so many environments where people didn’t freely communicate about spiritual things,” Amy reflected in 2008. “That’s very different now because everybody communicates about all kinds of spiritual things.
Growing up somewhat of a maverick myself, I had always hated being preached to,” she continued. “I wasn’t about to do that to anybody else but rather make an experience available to somebody and kind of let them stumble into it or step into the water. And that was exhilarating.”
Lead Me On Live 1989 will be available in all digital formats plus as a 2-CD collection. iTunes will have the album for pre-sale with an instant great track, “Wait For The Healing,” starting September 15th. All-new merch, fan packs, and bundles for the project will also be available to fans at www.amygrant.com.
Additionally, the salvageable film footage from the 1989 Ft. Worth, TX, show that has been ‘in the vault’ will finally see the light of day on YouTube and social media platforms in the forms of music videos, shorts, reels, and more.
This fall, Grant will once again hit the road starting September 20th, performing her iconic hits along with selections from the Lead Me On Live 1989 project. Starting November 26th, Grant and her long-time friend and collaborator Michael W. Smith will begin their 2023 Christmas Tour.
Joined by special guest Michael Tait of the Newsboys, Grant, and Smith will co-headline nine holiday shows, including their first appearance together on New York City’s iconic Carnegie Hall stage (Dec. 5).
Following this will be one of Music City’s most treasured traditions with Grant and husband Vince Gill, their beloved “Christmas at the Ryman” residency. The 12-concert run is scheduled for December 13-14, 16-17, 19-20, and 22-23 and will once again feature matinee performances of the beloved show.
Five-time GRAMMY Award-winning music collective Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine announce the forthcoming release of ‘The Maverick Way Complete,’ arriving October 27 via TRIBL Records and available for preorder now. The 22-track project not only includes the tracks from the recently-released 6-track ‘The Maverick Way’ EP, but also features collaborations with Noah Schnacky, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Bobbi Storm, Travis Greene, Cody Carnes, Wande, and many more
Out now is the anthemic track “Good News,” which Moore & Raine performed on The Tamron Hall Show this morning (10.2). Featuring Todd Galberth, the praise-inducing song serves as a reminder of Jesus’ never-ending love.
Stream Full Album Below
In 2022, Maverick City Music produced one of the biggest tours of the year, consistently ranking in the Pollstar Top 10 week after week, selling out arenas across America. On Tues., Oct. 31, they’ll take this new music on the road as they kick off a 16-date run with A-list performers, including Maverick City Music, Noah Schnacky, Travis Greene, Todd Galberth, Forward City Music, and JWLKRS.
‘The Maverick Way’ Tour
Tues., Oct. 31 | Symphony Hall | Springfield, MA
Wed., Nov. 1 | Toyota Oakdale Theatre | Wallingford, CT
Thurs., Nov. 2 | The Lyric | Baltimore, MD
Fri., Nov. 3 | Berglund Performing Arts Theatre | Roanoke, VA
Sat., Nov. 4 | Altria Theater | Richmond, VA
Sun., Nov. 5 | Columbia County Performing Arts Center | Evans, GA
Tues., Nov. 7 | Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts | Greensboro, NC
Thurs., Nov. 9 | Grand Rapids First | Grand Rapids, MI
Fri., Nov. 10 | The Sylvee | Madison, WI
Sat., Nov. 11 | Vibrant Music Hall | Des Moines, IA
Sun., Nov. 12 | Steelhouse Omaha | Omaha, NE
Tues., Nov. 14 | Armory | Minneapolis, MN
Thurs., Nov. 16 | Kansas City Music Hall | Kansas City, MO
Fri., Nov. 17 | Juanita K Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts| Springfield, MO
Sat., Nov. 18 | Peoria Civic Center Theater | Peoria, IL
Sun., Nov. 19 | Grove City Church of the Nazarene | Columbus, OH
Five-time GRAMMY-winning Maverick City Music is a multi-racial, multicultural, genre-bending group bringing hope and love to all.
The collective’s music brings awareness to topics like mass incarceration, Juneteenth and even the George Floyd injustice, addressing difficult cultural topics with love and inspiration. In 2022, Maverick City Music catapulted to a record-breaking and magnificent rise, winning BET Awards, Stellar Awards, NAACP Awards and more. In just under a year, they’ve performed mainstage at the BET Awards alongside Diddy and Faith Evans, joined NPR’s Tiny Desk, The View, and NBC’s TODAY Show.
They also swept the Christian and Gospel categories with four wins, tying Beyonce for the night. In addition to mainstream television, fans swarmed to hear and see the group live across the country. Maverick City Music’s headlining ‘The Kingdom Tour’ broke box-office records and landed in the Top 10 tours on Pollstar weekly.
Renowned Gospel Music Minister and Worship leader Minister Afam is out with his debut EP titled “We Join The Elders“.
This spiritually uplifting collection of songs would resonate deeply with listeners, offering a transcendent journey through faith and devotion.
The 6 track EP opens with the rousing and inspirational “We Join The Elders,” setting the tone for a transformative musical experience.
Each subsequent track, including “Imela,” “You Are Good,” “My Pledge,” “You Are Yahweh”, “Inside Me” and the title track “We Join The Elders,” carries a unique message of Worship, alignment and total revival.
Minister Afam’s rich and soulful voice, coupled with heartfelt lyrics, promises to uplift the spirits of all who listen.
We Join The Elders is not just an EP; it’s a spiritual journey that invites listeners to connect with their faith and find solace in the presence of God.
Multi-Stellar Award-nominated Gospel group, Fresh Start Worship,has released their latest LP, He Is Here. This 12-track album is afollow up to their two EPs, He Is Excellent, released on March 17th and He Is Friend, released on August 18th.
The dynamic vocal ensemble explores themes of faith, spirituality and the support of God’s presence when facing life’s challenges. The LP also includes powerful, soul-stirring collaborations on the songs, “Savior,” with Tiphani Montgomery and “Feel You’re Here,” with Kelontae Gavin, along with singles such as “We Are the Light,” “Love Like This,” and more.
He is Here, offers a spiritual journey through worship and reflection on faith. He Is Here begins with the uplifting song “Excellent,” which praises God’s glory and celebrates the gift of life. The LP concludes with “We Are the Light,” a song that serves as a powerful reminder that it is our duty to radiate light, goodness, and positivity into the world.
Fresh Start Worship is comprised of singers and songwriters hailing from Fresh Start Church in Duluth, GA, under the leadership of the esteemed Pastor Marquis Boone.
Pastor Marquis Boone also oversees Marquis Boone Enterprises, a comprehensive entertainment production company dedicated to creating music and fostering the careers of prominent Gospel artists.
The gospel and worship group is renowned for their hit songs, such as “Have It All (feat. Sarai)” and “Mention,” as well as their albums like Fresh Start Worship and Church Service.
In 2020, Fresh Start Worship earned three nominations at the Stellar Gospel Music Awards. The group remains committed to infusing creativity into the live worship experience and connecting people with God through innovative music.
The album “More” includes the Top 25 radio hit, “Hide Away.” A new music video has also just been released.
After captivating audiences worldwide with his chart-topping album “Crossing Willow Creek” in 2018, acclaimed Singer-Songwriter Bill Abernathy is back with his brand new full-length album, “MORE.” The album, set to release on September 29, 2023, promises to be a musical journey like no other, showcasing Abernathy’s exceptional songwriting and storytelling abilities.
Following the success of his hit singles “Goodbye Will Never Come Again” and “Cry Wolf,” Abernathy’s upcoming album “MORE” is highly anticipated by fans and critics alike. The first single from the album, “Hide Away,” has already climbed to the Top 25 of the National Radio Hits AC40 chart, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable musical experience.
The album, released on MTS Records, features a collection of emotionally charged tracks that will resonate deeply with listeners. From the captivating title track “MORE” to the deeply reflective hit single, “Hide Away,” Abernathy’s powerful vocals and honest lyrics will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on listeners.
Bill Abernathy, born in a condemned hospital in Kansas City, has defied stereotypes and conventions throughout his life. His unique journey is reflected in his music, as he continues to break barriers and touch hearts with his powerful songs. His previous album, “Crossing Willow Creek,” earned him millions of global streams and recognition as a finalist for Song of the Year.
With the upcoming release of “MORE,” Bill Abernathy is set to solidify his position as an accomplished Singer-Songwriter and establish himself as a beloved artist among music enthusiasts worldwide.
Stay tuned for the release of “MORE” on September 29, 2023, and witness the power of change and resilience through every note played by Bill Abernathy.
For more information on Bill Abernathy and his music, please visit his website at www.billabernathy.com.
AfroGospel artisteMunachi is out with a new album. He aptly titled this one “The Special Tape (TST).”
Available today on Distro and hard copies, Munachi says he finished the project on the album and God named it.
Munachi’s sound is definitely growing and covering mileage as an artiste. “The Special Tape” is a compilation of a more mature sound than you have ever heard the AfroGospel artiste.
“I’m not here to be served, I’m here to serve God and those He put in my part with this gift He gave me. I’m not the best at it yet, but creating this album, I’ve realised that I’m not where I used to be. I’m growing, and this album is the evidence. All songs on this album were carefully curated by GOD and I, and trust me when I tell you it’s nothing like what you’ve heard before, It’s SPECIAL!” Munachi says.
Guest appearances on the album include Pastor Emma Ubah and AfroGospel star Nolly.
“The Special Tape” will have you lifting holy hands, dancing and feeling Hip at the same time as Munachi contributes yet another quota in filling the gap between ministry and entertainment while turning many to Christ, instead of opting for the perverse alternative that is flying all across the media.
When asked if he can describe the album in a few words, AfroGospel artiste Munachi said it is “smooth, graceful with creative excellence!”
Phenomenally amazing producer and artist – STOMusic releases his brand new four (4) track EP titled ”Xpression” on his birthday – September 29th. All the songs are worth listening to as he calls this project an ”xpression of his heart to God.”
See ”Xpression” EP track-list below:
Track 1 – ”Real”
STOMusic expresses himself with this Afro-gospel tune which talks about how God’s grace has brought him thus far. Laced with a deep message of how a son expresses gratitude to his father the track – Real is by all means recommended for every one in every step of the way on his/her own life’s journey.
Track 2 – ”I Do”This melodious tune communicates a feeling of love. Very danceable and loaded with a lovey-dovey message for everyone. The self-produced song by STOMusic has so much to take away and it’s what we call song for all seasons, evergreen song.
Track 3 – ”My Papa” The love expressed on this track from STOMusic to God is worth emulating. This prolific songwriter and producer has carved a niche for himself by understanding how to lace great melodious tunes with relatable lyrics.He expresses how God takes care and pampers him as His baby in this Afrobeats, Amapiano and Afro Gospel sound. P.S: This song has the tendency to live rent free in your heart.
Track 4 – ”Forever” This song tells a story of how God’s love is unquantifiable. And STOMusic chooses to reciprocate by expressing that he will FOREVER sing to Him. God’s love to us makes all the difference and we should continue to sing to Him as our lover.
Inventive rock duo Adamic has released their self-titled album Adamic, produced by Disciple’s Andrew Stanton. The 11-track project is a collection of new songs and re-recorded updates of older pieces.
“Making this record has been a literal dream come true,” says guitarist Josiah Pletch. “Andrew Stanton really brought out the very best in us. I remember at times when we would hit a creative wall, he would offer a suggestion or idea that we would never think of otherwise. We also got to record the drums at Off the Wall studio with Lester Estelle [Pillar, Kelly Clarkson] engineering the sessions.”
Vocalist and drummer Ian Swaby adds, “We never clashed or debated with Andrew on what each song should be. He let us make odd choices and long songs, and I think the record is special because of it. His method and approach to our music was ideal in that he simply breathed life into our rough designs and let us be ‘weird.’”
The resulting songs are meaningful and complex. The opening track “Solid As Solid Gets” presents fresh rock-and-roll with grunge touches while exploring the duality of mental health.
“The idea of someone having 2 souls jumped at me, so I used that as a springboard to speak about mental health and this hope of the two opposites in me being married. I have often felt torn in two internally, and it’s taken a great many years for that to heal and become whole,” Ian Swaby explains. “There’s a lot of language used to describe metalworking in there too. I felt like that was the best way to describe the intensity of being welded back together.”
“Heather” shows off Ian and Josiah’s musical chemistry, the result of a friendship formed when the musicians were just 5 years old. The alternative rock track showcases glassy-smooth vocals from Ian, who calls the song his favorite of the band’s catalog. “All of A Sudden” offers lyrics about catalytic moments in life, framed by full-bodied riffs from Josiah.
Adamic Releases Self-Titled Album, Produced By Disciple’s Andrew Stanton
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In addition to Ian Swaby, Josiah Pletch, and Andrew Stanton, Adamic’s musical cast was rounded out with mixing by Matt Arcaini and mastering by Sam Moses. The ultimate result is a relaunching of Adamic into the world with a cohesive sound that fully establishes their identity.
“I want people to take away a feeling of hope from this record,” Ian reflects. “We’d been through a lot in the years leading up to this record, so looking back, I was trying to process all of that and find the light. We never want to leave the listener feeling ‘low’ after a song, but rather like they’ve had an experience that ended in light, just like we had after our numerous valleys.
I also want people to feel the confidence and the courage to be unabashedly themselves. We didn’t compromise any of our sound or ideas for this record, and I believe that’s what sets it apart.”
Today marks the one-year anniversary of the largest hurricane ever to hit Southwest Florida, and commemorating this significant event is KJ-52’s latest album release, “Still Standing”. Fueled by personal experiences and stories from a community still picking up the pieces, the album is a testament to human resilience, unity, and hope.
“Still Standing” boasts 11 tracks, with the radio release of “No Bad Days (feat. Peabod)” recently hitting #1 on Christian radio. The album also features collaborations with Dan Rivera of SEU Worship in “Hall of Fame”, and Fern of Social Club and Gaijin in “Sunshine”.
KJ-52 Drops New Album ‘Still Standing’
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“On September 28th, 2022, my city of Cape Coral bore the brunt of this Category Four Hurricane. In the wake of devastation, loss, and tragedy, we emerged “still standing”. This album is inspired by the stories of perseverance and embodies the spirit of a community uniting to rebuild,” shared KJ-52.
In the aftermath of the hurricane, KJ-52, a local pastor, dedicated weeks serving the community, offering food, water, repairs, and more, embodying the love of Christ in tangible ways. “Still Standing” seeks to echo this sense of unity, uplifting those who continue to rebuild their lives.
In a heartfelt move to address personal challenges stemming from the hurricane’s impact, KJ-52 is hosting a liquidation sale of all his physical merchandise to fund repairs to his own home, which was damaged in the aftermath. Fans and supporters can browse and purchase at KJ-52.com.
