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Category: NEWS

Review of Bonnie Milne’s “Stolen Night Sky”

Bonnie Milne’s “Stolen Night Sky” is a compelling addition to contemporary classical music, marking a notable departure from her previous work by incorporating percussion for the first time. This piece, featuring the esteemed guest percussionist Dave Hewitt, cellist Kevin Fox, and violinist Shane Guse, offers a rich tapestry of emotions and technical prowess.

#### Musical Composition and Themes

“Stolen Night Sky” is a profound exploration of betrayal and deception, conveyed through its dynamic structure and evocative melodies. Milne’s use of heavy forte chords and fluctuating minor scales creates a palpable tension, reflecting the unsettling themes of the piece. The high, distant piano melodies amplify this sense of anxiety, while the cello and violin add layers of harmony and counterpoint that strive to bring comfort amidst the turmoil.

The introduction of percussion by Dave Hewitt is particularly noteworthy. Hewitt’s tasteful and dynamic approach adds a heartbeat to the composition, infusing it with layers of texture and colorful transitions. His use of cymbal washes enhances the crescendos and heavy chords, providing a depth that enriches the overall sound.

#### Performance and Recording

The recording, captured by Nixon Boyd at the St. Paul’s Centre in Orillia, showcases the beautiful Bosendorfer piano donated by Michael Jones. The piano’s rich, resonant tones are perfectly suited to Milne’s intricate compositions. The collaboration with Fox and Guse is seamless, their interplay of countermelodies and harmonies adding to the emotional depth of the piece.

#### Visual and Artistic Presentation

The music video, directed by Anne Douris and filmed by Mathew Waring, adds a visual dimension that complements the haunting beauty of the composition. The video features dramatic performances by Milne and Hewitt, set against the backdrop of the historic St. Paul’s Centre. The visual narrative enhances the themes of loss and yearning, making the piece not just an auditory but also a visual experience.

Review of Bonnie Milne’s “Stolen Night Sky”

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#### Artistic Impact and Reception

“Stolen Night Sky” has already achieved significant acclaim, reaching #2 on the UK iTunes Classical Songs chart. This recognition is a testament to Milne’s ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. Her innovative approach to classical music, blending traditional elements with new techniques, continues to resonate with listeners and critics alike.

In conclusion, “Stolen Night Sky” is a masterful composition that highlights Bonnie Milne’s growth as a composer and her willingness to experiment with new sounds and textures. The piece is a testament to her skill in conveying complex emotions through music, and it stands as a significant milestone in her illustrious career.

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Review: Robert Ross Honors Mother’s Memory with “Mamma’s Song” (out on July 26th)

“Mamma’s Song,” a heartfelt tribute by Canadian country singer-songwriter Robert Ross, exemplifies the profound influence of his mother, Betty Comeau, on his life and music. Drawing inspiration from the soulful hymns she sang and the love she embodied, Ross channels his raw emotions and personal experiences into this touching composition.

The song’s melody is simple yet evocative, featuring traditional country instrumentation that includes acoustic guitar, gentle percussion, and subtle harmonies. This understated arrangement allows the poignant lyrics to take center stage, ensuring that the listener remains focused on the song’s emotional core. Ross’s vocal delivery is imbued with sincerity, capturing the essence of a son reminiscing about his beloved mother.

The lyrics of “Mamma’s Song” are a testament to Ross’s storytelling ability. Lines like “I remember well Mama singing Amazing Grace and Old Rugged Cross / I could hear Angels singing Coming through Mama’s song” evoke vivid imagery of a mother’s spiritual guidance and love.

The chorus, “I’ll fly away and Rock of Ages / Move on up a little higher / What a friend I have In Jesus / Now she’s singing with Angels in their choir,” encapsulates the dual themes of faith and loss, resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced similar emotions.

Ross’s personal connection to the song is palpable. The narrative of reflecting on a photograph of his mother and recalling her angelic voice adds a layer of authenticity that enhances the listener’s emotional engagement. The song’s ability to convey the pain of losing a loved one, while simultaneously celebrating their memory, showcases Ross’s adeptness at balancing sorrow with a sense of reverence and hope.

Influenced by country legends such as Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard, Ross’s music carries a timeless quality that appeals to both traditional and contemporary country music fans. His service in the Canadian Army and his extensive performance history across Australia, Nashville, and Canada further enrich his musical perspective, bringing a depth of experience to his songwriting.

“Mamma’s Song” stands out as a significant piece in Robert Ross’s discography. It not only honors the memory of his mother but also serves as a universal ode to maternal love and the enduring power of faith. As part of his upcoming album “Better With Time,” this song exemplifies Ross’s growth as a storyteller and musician. It is a touching and relatable tribute that will undoubtedly resonate with a wide audience.

For those interested in exploring more of Robert Ross’s work, including his highly acclaimed debut album “It’s Never Too Late,” visit his official website at www.robertrossmusic.com.

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Worship For Everyone’s New Album Aims To Create Still Worshipful Atmosphere For Families

Worship For Everyone – the all age worship movement hailing from the UK – releases a new album titled “Breathe.” Made up of Nick and Becky Drake, parents to four children themselves, Worship For Everyone has been ministering to kids in church groups and schools for years. From their extensive experience, they recognised a need for worship songs that create an atmosphere of stillness, which they offer through the ten songs on “Breathe.”

“Knowing that so many children have enjoyed our songs over the years, we wanted to create an album that would still feel familiar to our listeners, but with a totally different feel,” they share. “Breathe” is sonically spacious, creating an opportunity for families to enjoy peaceful, reflective, and meditative moments together with simple and beautiful worship.

“We hope these songs will bless every generation, creating and serving those quieter moments that we need and often long for. We hope above all that people of all ages will be able to draw comfort and sustenance from God as these songs minister to them,” they conclude.

Worship For Everyone’s new album speaks to an anxious generation, reminding them to catch their breath and slow down, but also of the Breath of God who made and restores them.

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Wande Announces Name Change To Anike

Reach Records’ pioneering force in Christian hip-hop, Wande, has announced a name change. She will now be known publicly as Anike. She shared her heart behind this decision on social media, saying she is entering a new season and her name change reflects a life of obedience, surrender and submission to the Lord.

Yahweh has called me into a new season. In moments of stillness with Him, He brought to my remembrance my names given to me at birth Mutiat & Yewande. Mutiat is an Arabic muslim name meaning obedience/devotion to Allah. Yewande is a Yoruba name meaning “the mother has returned” (aka reincarnation).

The Lord guided me to pray with my mother with whom we both share the Christian faith. From her & my time with the Lord I was renamed.

(I’ll share my full list of new names soon)

The name I felt led to go by publicly is “Anike” the short form of my fully hyphenated new middle name Ireoluwa-Anike

Meaning: The goodness of God – we have something to care for and cherish and not take for granted.

This isn’t a marketing scheme etc, just a life of full obedience, surrender, and submission to the Lord.

“Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬

My husband, parents, family, and business partners have been extremely supportive during this time as I step into this new season of letting go of old and stepping into new all for the glory of Yahweh 

““Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

I encourage anyone who feels like the Lord is speaking to them to lean in to His voice & tap

into the Bible . Regardless of culture or what you may have been known for. Love you 

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭111‬:‭10‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

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Will Smith Performs At BET Awards With Chandler Moore and Kirk Franklin

Will Smith performed “You Can Make It” on the BET Awards 2024. The song featured Chandler Moore, Kirk Franklin & Sunday Service Choir.

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Colton Dixon Announces Fall 2024 Up + Up Tour

Atlantic Recording Artist Colton Dixon has announced his fall 2024 Up + Up Tour featuring Austin French with special guest Jeremy Rosado. Sponsored by Compassion International, the tour will kick off September 19th in Dothan, AL and ultimately hit 24 other cities across the country. Tickets for fifteen of the shows are on sale now via ColtonDixon.com, with more being added daily. Additionally, limited VIP Tickets with early entry Q&A and signed tour poster are available.

Named after his brand new single, “UP + UP,” Dixon is excited to share the stage with French and Rosado.

“I’m stoked to be on the road with such incredible artists sharing a common goal,” remarked Dixon. “The message of “UP + UP” is that God’s plan is to give us a hope and a future – lifting us up and up again no matter the battle. That’s exactly what this fall tour is all about.”

“UP + UP” has received a very warm welcome at Christian radio, with 23 adds in its first week alone, including including KLTY/Dallas; WGTS/Washington DC; WCIE/Tampa; KLJY/St. Louis; and WJQK/Grand Rapids. He performed the track live for the first time at the annual Christian Music Broadcasters MOMENTUM conference in Orlando, FL. Most recently Dixon received his first RIAA Gold-Certification for his massive hit, “Build A Boat,” the biggest Christian radio song of 2022 holding the No. 1 spot for 11 weeks and also receiving Song of the Year nominations for both the K-LOVE Fan Awards and GMA Dove Awards.

Up + Up Tour dates – *more dates coming soon

9/19/24 Dothan, AL

9/20/24 Newnan, GA

9/22/24 Athens, GA

9/26/24 Aiken, SC

9/27/24 Greenville, SC

9/28/24 North Charleston, SC

10/2/24 Punta Gorda, FL

10/3/24 Sarasota, FL

10/4/24 Clearwater, FL

10/5/24 Lakeland, FL

10/6/24 Hudson, FL

10/9/24 Winston-Salem, NC

10/11/24 Fairfield, CT

10/12/24 Jaffrey, NH

10/13/24 East Falmouth, MA

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Amanda Nolan Signs With Lula Street Records

Lula Street Records, founded by industry veteran Wisdom Moon, is thrilled to announce the signing of emerging Christian artist Amanda Nolan. This exciting partnership marks a significant milestone in Nolan’s burgeoning career and solidifies her position as one of the most promising new voices in Christian music.

Amanda Nolan, a Pennsylvania native now based in Nashville, has been making waves in the Christian music scene with her soulful tone and heartfelt lyrics. Her journey in music began at age eleven, and she has since grown into a formidable talent, collaborating with many established songwriters and producers in the Christian music industry.

“This is a day I have dreamed of since I was a little girl, and I can’t believe it’s here,” said Nolan. “I am so thankful to God for blessing and trusting me with this opportunity to make music to encourage His people. Thank you to Lula Street Records and my manager Wisdom Moon for believing in me and coming alongside me on this journey!”

Nolan’s recent single, “Second To God,” has garnered attention for its powerful message and showcases her artistic growth. Her music, born from personal experiences including overcoming mental health struggles through faith, resonates deeply with listeners.

“We’re excited to welcome Amanda to the Lula Street family,” said Wisdom Moon, founder of Lula Street Records. “Her authentic approach to songwriting and her dedication to her faith make her a perfect fit for our label.”

In addition to signing with Lula Street Records, Nolan has also recently begun working with Moon as her manager, further strengthening their professional relationship.

Nolan’s impressive accolades include over 4.7 million YouTube views, a strong social media presence with over 123,000 Instagram followers, and multiple songwriting competition wins. She was awarded 1st Place in the Christian category of the Unsigned Only Songwriting Competition and was a finalist in the prestigious John Lennon Songwriting Contest.

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Matthew West’s Don’t Stop Praying Tour To Visit 17 Cities Nationwide This Fall

Five-time GRAMMY-nominated Christian artist and songwriter Matthew West sets his sights on the road, plotting his headlining Don’t Stop Praying Tour in partnership with Awakening Events to kick off on Oct. 30 in Pensacola, Fla.. Spanning across 17 cities nationwide this fall and winter.

“One of Christian music’s most prolific singer-songwriters” (Billboard) takes his music to fans across the country inspired by his Christian radio single “Don’t Stop Praying,” which currently holds the No. 2 spot on the Billboard Christian Airplay and Billboard Monitored AC chartsand continues to climb the Top 10 on Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs chart. Tickets are on sale now with a limited amount of VIP meet and greet packages available at matthewwest.com/tour.

Despite all the political slogans this year, West encourages Christians to hold onto the message of “Don’t Stop Praying,” sharing, “there will be no shortage of campaign slogans this year my friends, but here’s mine – Don’t Stop Praying.”

Matthew West’s Don’t Stop Praying Tour To Visit 17 Cities Nationwide This Fall

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https://youtube.com/watch?v=RZCDb0ZM1ew%3Ffeature%3Doembed

Penned by West and Jeff Pardo, “Don’t Stop Praying” has had the largest debut streaming week in the history of West’s monumental career and is on track to be his most streamed song to date. The award-winning artist followed up the hit track with an acoustic version last Friday (6/21) to highlight a more intimate, stripped down perspective of the uplifting song.

Before the track’s release, West dropped the poignant and relatable “18 Summers,” which “perfectly captures the moment he’s living in now” (Woman’s World) as a father of two teenage daughters. Later accompanied by a music video that showcases “a myriad of realities that plays out beautifully” (People), West continues to bring inspiring tracks to the forefront and looks forward to sharing them on stages across the nation with fans.

Don’t Stop Praying Tour dates:

Oct. 30, 2024 in Pensacola, Fla. at Saenger Theatre

Nov. 1, 2024 in Knoxville, Tenn. at Chilhowee Hills Baptist Church

Nov. 2, 2024 in Myrtle Beach, S.C. at Beach Church

Nov. 3, 2024 TBA

Nov. 7, 2024 in Clarksburg, W. Va. at Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center

Nov. 8, 2024 in Bensalem, Pa. at Christian Life Church

Nov. 9, 2024 in Frederick, Md. at International Community Church

Nov. 10, 2024 in Anderson, Ind. at Madison Park Church of God

Nov. 14, 2024 in Naperville, Ill. at Calvary Church

Nov. 15, 2024 in Gaylord, Mich. at E-Free Church Gaylord Campus

Nov. 16, 2024 in Fond du Lac, Wis. at Lighthouse Christian Church

Nov. 17, 2024 in Lincoln, Neb. at Lincoln Berean Church

Nov. 18, 2024 in Mt. Vernon, Ill. at Central Christian Church

Nov. 21, 2024 in Searcy, Ark. at Searcy High School Performing Arts Center

Nov. 22, 2024 in Leesville, La. at Christian Living Fellowship

Nov. 23, 2024 in Abilene, Texas at Abilene Convention Center Auditorium

Nov. 24, 2024 in San Antonio, Texas at Oak Hills Church – Crownridge Campus

A six-time author, West has notched more than 30 No. 1 songs as an artist and songwriter combined and has received five GRAMMY nominations and a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. He awaits the fall tour to continue sharing his music’s encouraging message nationwide.

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Sarah Kroger Announces “No Filters” Podcast

This week, Sarah Kroger announced she and her husband, Dom, will be releasing a podcast series based on her latest project, A New Reality.

In this inaugural episode of No Filters, hosts Sarah Kroger and Dom Quaglia discuss Sarah’s song ‘Glory Be’. Ever wondered how a song idea comes to life? You’ll learn about the inspiration, writing, producing, and live performing of this song, which is based on a well-known prayer… the type of prayer Dom used to complain about.

Whether you’re a music lover, a prayer warrior or just a person who has ears and can hear, this episode is sure to give you something to think about.

Sarah Kroger Announces “No Filters” Podcast

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https://youtube.com/watch?v=tvbgxkAgq4s%3Ffeature%3Doembed

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Jeremy Camp Earns 44th No. 1 Song With “These Days”

GRAMMY nominated recording artist Jeremy Camp has notched his 44th No. 1 single with “These Days.” The living-in-the-moment anthemic track was the lead single off of his album ‘Deeper Waters’ which also topped the Billboard Top 200 Christian chart upon its release. Released Fri., May 18 via Capitol CMG, ‘Deeper Waters’ marked Camp’s highest album streaming debut of his marquee career.

The 13-track collection is a pop-fused reflection of the past two-plus decades of his life in the spotlight, as well as the appreciation for the moment of the now. Fused with Camp’s personal experiences, steadfast faith, and innate gift of storytelling, ‘Deeper Waters’ takes the listeners on a captivating musical journey of exploration and surrender.

Jeremy Camp Earns 44th No. 1 Song With “These Days”

Stream & Enjoy

https://youtube.com/watch?v=USbZaKb11zc%3Ffeature%3Doembed

Jeremy Camp Tour Dates:

  • Sun., July 7 | Freedom Fest | Norwalk, CA
  • Fri., July 19 | Alive Music Festival 2024 | Mineral City, OH
  • Sat., July 20 | Porter County Fair | Valparaiso, IN
  • Sat., July 27 | You God’s Music Showcase | San Antonio, TX
  • Fri., Aug. 2 | OneFest | Cadott, WI
  • Fri., Aug 9 | Amplify Festival | Benton, AR
  • Sat., Aug 10 | Amplify 2024 | Benton, AR
  • Fri., Sep 6 | The Amp at Log Still | Gethsemane, KY
  • Sun., Sep 8 | Celebrate Minnesota | Waite Park, MN

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