Brisbane Christian News - Brisbane Christian Chat (Queensland, Australia)


	29.11.02 - Rebecca St. James returns to Australia. From ACAN. Rebecca St. James is coming back to Australia Feb 17th-28th 2003 for a series of concerts in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Rebecca is currently the USA’s “top Christian artist”, with concerts selling out a month in advance. Rebecca and the band are currently on tour in Europe and are excited about the concerts in Australia. More details soon in regards to dates and venues. For more info, check out www.ace-management.co.nz.
	29.11.02 - Antiskeptic - 4 Seasons / 5 States tour. From Toupee Records. Antiskeptic continue to rock and roll their way around the country landing in Perth this weekend for just the second time. They are fast becoming the young band of the moment being added to Homebake and The Falls festivals with more to come. Check out all the dates and the latest single 'Four Seasons' here.
	29.11.02 - Acoustic tour for Rhubarb. From Toupee Records. Rhubarb have been stripping away the rock to reveal the tunes from their last two albums on their acoustic national tour. With just Brisbane to go this Saturday 30th November at the Healer, the tour has been a huge hit. Adding keyboard and strings to the mix, the guys are enjoying the intimate shows.
	29.11.02 - 211 In Progress launch new website. From 211 In Progress. Brisbane based hardcore band 211 In Progress have launched their official website. You can check it out at www.211inprogress.net. Also don't forget to come and check us out live on Dec 6th at Globe Youth. This will be a drug and alcohol free event. Cost: free! More info in the Gig Guide. See you in the pit!
	29.11.02 - Henrys album and tour in December. From Toupee Records. After the critics have been raving about the Henrys debut EP, the band are ready to unveil their first long play album. They will be touring in December playing east coast capitals and promoting the work of Tear Australia as they do.
	29.11.02 - Breathing what? From Toupee Records. Breathing Autumn are one of the latest additions to the Toupee Team. The band was formed in late 1999 by four people who wanted to create beautiful, emotional and thoughtful music. Their first offering is a 6 track EP 'Without Latitude' and they will launch it tonight 29th November at The Healer in Brisbane. Special guests Caleb James (Leo Nine, Rhubarb) and Bloon.
	29.11.02 - Funky sunset. From the Mullet TV Team. As you are aware we have been running a series of gigs at the Funky Sun Cafe in Broadbeach for the last 9 weeks. This Saturday will see the last of these events for the time being. The safe will continue to operate - of course! For this Saturday's event we party with new band Ostella, The Following, Leigh Wallis, Supermarket Hero, Expedition Pie and JL (Just Listen) who have gained a strong new fan base at the cafe. The Cafe's staff and owners have been very impressed with all the bands who have played, and have enjoyed serving all our own visitors. Please let me also take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved at the Funky Sun - its been quite a pull at times, but it has been very rewarding with lots of opportunities to talk about Jesus, and lots of opportunities to meet new bands. In fact we have played over 50 bands during the event, and have met up with over 20 new acts. Other gigs upcoming include: 14th December - Carols at Archerfield 21st December - Carols at Movieworld 4th January - Summer In Surfers Details of each gig is on our web site www.mullettv.com. Have a great summer - and again, thank you for supporting the Mullet TV gigs and bands this year.
	29.11.02 - Don't miss out! From Sonfest. Time is running out! You only have till November 30 to take advantage of the free Toby Mac CD Offer with pre-purchased Sonfest tickets. Do what ever you can, call Koorong (07 3896 8777) call Sonfest (07 3896 8744). Whatever you do, don't miss out!
	29.11.02 - Forest Edge Festival on-line. From ACAN. Coming up for it’s fourth year, the ACAN Forest Edge Christian Music Festival has just announced it’s initial line-up, with artists including crowd pleasers such as Alabaster Box, the jive express, Blind, Sons of Korah, Epidemic and Roma Waterman, Sounds Like Chicken and Jonah, a plethora of well-known and soon-to-be discovered acts and lots more goodies to be announced. To visit the Forest Edge section of the ACAN website, visit www.forestedgefestival.com where you can read up on what’s happening and register online, or email fedgereg@acan.org.au for a brochure/poster or more information.
	29.11.02 - Light FM Melbourne on air this weekend. Melbourne's new Christian radio station, Light FM, will launch this Sunday with a line-up of experienced former commercial radio announcers. Melbourne's newest radio station has received strong funding support from the Melbourne community according to General Manager Jeff Miller, giving Light FM a debt-free start-up. The road toward full-time operation has been a long one for the station, beginning in the 80s as Melbourne Christian Radio under Ray Taylor, then from 1990 as Triple Seven Communications. According to Jeff Miller, "We are slowly educating the community about what we're doing and why." He says Light FM will hold a public launch in February. More info here.
	22.11.02 - Void If Removed down with the satanic night clubs and ghettos? From Void If Removed. As you are hopefully aware, our CD launch is on the 13th Dec @ Lions Den Cafe, featuring Juxtapose and funny comedian Phil Kerr. Tickets are $5 or $30 with both CDs > purchase them now at the Pillar Bookstore. Check the Gig Guide for full details. Front man for Void If Removed, Shane 'Eggy' will be heading to the US and South America in 2003 to write songs and play in another band called No Longer Music for 2 months. The band goes into satanic night clubs, ghettos and Nazi clubs presenting the gospel through a hardcore punk gothic rock show. It is a theatre play with hardcore music. No Longer Music has seen thousands come to know Christ in the last 10 years. Shane says, "It is exciting, though scary. I know God wants to stretch me more as a person and musician. There are people out there who are not getting reached, because some places are so dark and dangerous, but God wants them to be reached!" During this time Shane will also be organising a mini tour in the US for Void If Removed. Void If Removed was invited to play at Parachute Festival 2003, but have turned it down to play at Sonfest. They will head to New Zealand in 2004. Also expect to see a 6 string new member arise to help grind up the noise for Void If Removed very soon. Visit www.voidifremoved.com.
	22.11.02 - AGMF 2003 launch. From Australian Gospel Music Festival. The AGMF 2003 will be launched in 4 days. 12 venues, 33 separate events, 15 exciting attractions, 140 artists and 25 sponsors! Live Media Launch: Mon 25 Nov 2002 / 10am, Toowoomba City Hall. Online Launch: Mon 25 Nov 2002 / 10am, www.agmf.com.au.
	22.11.02 - Seraphs Coal say goodbye to the game. From Anthony Aitken, Revolution Entertainment Group. After six years, 2 EPs, an album, countless compilation appearances & a ridiculous amount of shows, Adelaide's Seraphs Coal have decided it's time to call it a day. Vocalist/drummer Dan Jones had this to say, "Six years has seen Seraphs through an accelerated career, at times biting off a lot more than has been physically possible to chew! The opportunities and experiences we've shared together are irreplaceable memories. We have always managed to 'step it up' year after year, which is one of the reasons we have decided to end this chapter here. The band has been and will always be a community we have shared together. Without all of you, we never existed! Thanks so much for being a part of our lives." So, as part of the band's farewell tour they will be playing their LAST EVER headline date to Queensland - Sun 15 Dec 2002 / 'All Ages Extravaganza' - Seraphs Coal, The Quickening, Mere Theory (Adel) & Half Way Out, Lions Den Café. Check the Gig Guide for more info.
	22.11.02 - Carpetman gets funky again. From Carpetman. Carpetman will be playing this Saturday at the Mullet TVs regular gig at the Funky Sun Cafe (Broadbeach Mall, Gold Coast). This time Carpetman's going to be supported by the great vocal talent of Angela King. Its free entry and there will be some cool bands playing. Check it out at www.mullettv.com.
	22.11.02 - Sonfest 2003 update. From Sonfest. Another busy month for Sonfest has passed. In the news front, we will be posting the rest of the bands that are playing at the festival on the web site in the next couple of weeks so make sure you keep logging on. Electives speakers and timetables are nearly complete also. Thank you to everyone who has been praying for Sonfest, its preparation, staff and impact on those who attend, it is always greatly appreciated. We would ask for your continued prayer support as we move closer to the event. Time is running out for you to take advantage of Sonfest’s early ticket purchase deal. Make sure you buy your ticket before November 30 to get a copy of Toby Mac's CD 'Momentum' for free. You will also go into the future monthly madness draws and have the chance to win either a DVD player, Dinner for two with Audio Adrenaline or Air Conditioned accommodation at Boonah during Sonfest 2003, plus heaps of other great prizes. PS. Check out the updates to Andy Hunter's new website, his complete album is on the media player and will be available in early December.
	22.11.02 - Crew cuts. From The Rock Across Australia. ChristianityToday.com has named Sixpence None the Richer's 'Divine Discontent' the #1 Christian Music Album of 2002! Avalon, Jars of Clay and POD have garnered American Music Award nominations in the Contemporary Inspirational category. A total of 20 awards will be presented on 13 January 2003. The Osbournes will host the show. Radio & Records magazine recently named Australia's Paul Colman Trio as one of this year's Top 10 breakthrough Christian artists. Others include MercyMe and Toby Mac. Audio Adrenaline, Paul Colman Trio and Antiskeptic headline The Factory Festival in Launceston, Tasmania 24-25 January 2003. A Billboard.com poll has found music buyers are more willing to buy CDs with enhanced content such as ticket offers or exclusive web-site or unreleased-music access. Of 5000 voters, 42% said bonus content proves artists are more committed to fans, and 15% said the features help offset CD prices. The Rock Across Australia report is available to you here or you can simply check out the TRAA website here.
	15.11.02 - Rocfish auditioning for team to tour USA. From Rocfish. Rocfish management announces a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to young Australian Christians (age approx 18-25). Rocfish (Australia's Christian answer to Hi-5/Wiggles) is about to launch into the U.S and we are looking for a team of young performers who have what it takes to come on board! Specifically we are looking for any talented (dance, drama, song), totally God-focused, motivated young people. Entries for applications close on December 13, 2002. Info pack & audition application forms will be emailed to you on request. Contact Darren Jones - darren@rocfish.com.au or 0413 620 001.
	15.11.02 - Engineer of the Year! From Scott Mullane. Scott Mullane of Harmony Recording Studio and Tonjip won the 'Engineer of the Year' award at the recent Sunnie Awards for his work on Kristina Kelman's jazz album 'Since I Fell For You'. The Sunnie Awards are like a mini ARIAs for Queensland.
	15.11.02 - Hey Hey - It's the Funky Sun 7 at Broadbeach Mall. From the Mullet TV Team. 3 more Funky Suns to go! This week we feature Puretone, Dave Quinert, Jembanes, Pseudo Llama, Artificial Sweetner, and Just Listen. Coming up after that we're doing Carols at Archerfield on the 14th December and then the BIG one: Combined Community Carols at Movieworld with a HEAP of great performers. The fun doesn't stop however because on the 4th Jan with YWAM we present Summer In Surfers. For more details check the Gig Guide or www.mullettv.com.
	15.11.02 - TRAA Song Of The Week. From The Rock Across Australia. The number one song on AC radio in America this week (R&R and Jamsline) is Nichole Nordeman's 'Holy'. It is #6 on TRAA chart this week. Nichole says her new song sums up where she's at right now, and how she got there. "I have noticed a pattern in my spiritual life lately, the notion that some of the most profound truths are found in the most simple utterances," Nichole says. "Holy is a tribute to that simplicity. It chronicles some of my years and seasons of wandering and searching, and points eventually to an astonishingly simple discovery. Somehow, all that matters now is, 'You are holy'. That's really where I am these days. Recognising that we can argue theology until we're all bored or dead, or join history's great teachers and philosophers in asking the most confounding, unanswerable questions of the ages. But in the end, there will always be a bottom line. God is holy," she concludes.
	15.11.02 - Mutual benefit for Christian broadcasters and Aussie artists. From The Rock Across Australia. Australian composers and performers will gain increased opportunities for airplay on community (including most Christian) stations. Under revised Codes of Practice released by the Australian Broadcasting Authority (ABA) late last week, Australian music content requirements increase to 25%. TRAA's research of airplay by 25 Christian stations indicates that in 2001, the Christian sector exceeded the existing 20% requirement to average 25% Australian music content - the figure required by the new code. Woodlands Media supports the increase in Australian music content as it reinforces Christian radio's reputation as a sector committed to developing and recognising Australian composers and/or performers. Without it, many artists would not enjoy the ministry base and audience support they have today. Equally, Australian Christian music has helped build Christian radio's identity and potency as a force to be reckoned with, and provided stations with a steady pool of radiothon endorsements and ministry oriented events with which stations can be associated. It is important to recognise the benefit for both Australian musicians and Christian radio stations to support each other and work together. To view the new Code of Practice, click here.
	15.11.02 - Melbourne launch. From The Rock Across Australia. Melbourne's Light FM goes to air on 89.9FM from Sunday 1 December at 0000 hrs. The announcing team includes five former commercial radio personalities. The station will broadcast a "light-hits" (AC) format. What else! Technical tests are now underway.
	08.11.02 - Aliki streams into Europe. From Aliki. The sounds of 'Signs of Grace' will hit European and UK air waves this month and in the new year, with UK music co-ordinator Trevor Kirk choosing 'Abraham 'n Me' and 'Summer Storms' from the thousands of CDs he receives every year. Aliki is also a finalist in the Musicoz Challenge, with her song 'Wisdom' making an impression. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Woolongong 19th November. We look forward to hearing more from Aliki soon - especially the AGMF in April 2003.
	08.11.02 - Rhubarb get back to acoustics. From ACAN & Rhubarb/Toupee Records. After a year of solid touring, Rhubarb are stripping back and doing 3 final shows for the year in intimate mode. Supported by singer/songwriter Matt Handley (Pollyanna) and Mayfly (Melbourne) they will be playing the majority of the 'Slow Motion' record in the way it was first written. If you are in Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne then don’t miss a chance to catch 3 of Australia's finest bands at some of Australia's best venues. Dates are Sydney (Nov 15), Melbourne (Nov 22), Brisbane (Nov 30), all shows are $15, tickets available at the door. More details at www.toupeerecords.com.
	08.11.02 - Live at the Funky Sun this Saturday. From the Mullet TV Team. Mullet TV this Saturday presents live at the Funky Sun Cafe in Broadbeach: Jembanes, Danielle, Puretone, Luke and S.H.O.D. The gig is free, we start at 7pm and finish around 11pm.
	08.11.02 - Crew cuts. From The Rock Across Australia. Newsboys will release an original "praise-oriented" album early next year. Titled 'Adoration: The Worship Project', the CD will feature "moments of personal worship and corporate worship leading listeners on a unique journey". Each song will segue into the next. Lifehouse lead singer Jason Wade will record a worship project next year under the name Mr Tumnus (a character from CS Lewis's 'The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe'). Third Day has completed the final leg of the 'Come Together Tour', which has travelled to 76 US cities. The tour broke attendance records and became the biggest tour in Third Day’s history, placing the band in front of more than 300,000 fans, and ranking it among the most successful tours in Christian music history. Australia's Paul Colman Trio was special guest throughout the tour, which included 37 sold out events. Randy Travis's latest Country Gospel project 'Rise and Shine' has secured the #2 spot on the SoundScan Top Christian Country Albums chart as well as the #8 listing on the Top Current Contemporary Christian Albums chart (mainstream/Christian sales). Randy Stonehill releases his 18th album 'Edge of the World' this week. The album includes collaborations with Phil Keaggy, Barry McGuire, Love Song, Annie Herring (Second Chapter of Acts), Noel Paul Stookey (Peter, Paul, and Mary), Larry Norman, Michael Roe (77s and Lost Dogs), Russ Taff, and Sara Groves. TobyMac’s video for the song 'Irene' is being aired alongside clips from Madonna, Mariah Carey, and Shania Twain on the US syndicated video show 'Power Play'. Rolling Stone magazine is giving you the chance to vote for your favourite artists. This might be a good opportunity to vote for your favourite faith-driven artists who impact pop culture. Click here to vote. The Gospel Music Association (USA) recently published a document detailing why the Dove Awards are an important tool to recognise talent, and help promote the sector. At a time when a number of Australian organisations are indicating a need for something here, it might be useful for all to check out the article by Mark Ross with quotes from a variety of Christian artists.
	08.11.02 - Justin downloads a solo set. From ACAN. In between travelling around the country with the band Compliments of Gus, singer Justin Michael has been in the studio working on his debut solo EP 'Work of Art'. If you saw Compliments of Gus on their 'Neon Show' tour or at Black Stump, you will have heard them playing Justin's song 'Changed' as part of their set, and now you can download the 'solo' version onto your very own hard drive. Visit www.complimentsofgus.com for the deal.
	08.11.02 - TRAA Song Of The Week. From The Rock Across Australia. At GMA this year, a small group of around 100 radio and industry people crammed into the 'Launch Pad' at Nashville's Gaylord Entertainment Centre for a night of acoustic showcases featuring Rocketown singer/songwriters Chris Rice, Ginny Owens, Watermark, Shaun Groves, Wayne Kirkpatrick, Out of the Grey, and Ronnie Freeman. Michael W Smith (one of the owners of Rocketown Records) made an unscheduled appearance to present a new song inspired by the events of 9/11. Accompanying himself on the piano, Michael received an amazing response to the song. Three months ago, he performed the same song for the President of the USA who was so moved that he encouraged Michael to release it. The song which Michael performed - 'There She Stands' - is an anthem of hope focusing on the American flag. (The flag being "she" in the song). In its first week on sale, his new album 'Worship Again' which features that song, has topped the Christian SoundScan chart and has come in at #14 on Billboard’s Top 200. This is the first time MWS has had two albums in the US Top 100 at the same time, ('Worship' sits at #100), making him the only artist across all genres this week with two albums in the Top 100. Throughout his 19-year career, Michael W Smith has garnered two Grammy Awards (along with numerous nominations), an American Music Award, and 34 Dove Awards including Artist of the Year in 1999 and 2002. Michael’s career sales now exceed nine million. His 2001 release 'Worship' recently attained RIAA platinum certification (sales of over one million units) in less than one year and became the fastest selling album on the Christian retail chart in 2001, and certified gold in just 14 weeks. His 'Worship' DVD has shipped gold and will receive RIAA platinum certification by month’s end. Download 'There She Stands' (128 Kbps, MP3) here.
	08.11.02 - Positive week for US country music. From The Rock Across Australia. Country superstar Alan Jackson won two major awards at Christian Country Music Association (CCMA) awards held in Nashville this week. Jackson won the CCMA's Song of the Year award for 'Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)', plus CCMA Video of the Year trophy for the same song. Dennis Agajanian (a regular visitor to Australia with Franklin Graham Crusades) triumphed as CCMA Entertainer of the Year after three previous nominations. Last year's Best New Artist winner, Clifton Jansky scored the male vocalist trophy; Gayla Earlene was again Female Vocalist of the Year, and the Fox Brothers took home the award for Best Vocal Group. The CCMA awards spotlight musicians who integrate Christian themes and positive messages with country music. Details of all the CCMA winners is available here.
	01.11.02 - The Pillar new music update. From The Pillar Music & Book Stores. Come in and check out what's new at The Pillar Music & Book Stores. Great new releases in stores now or in store Monday 4th November: - Jars Of Clay '11 Live' CD, Video & DVD - WoW 2003 CD, Video & DVD - Superchic[k] 'Last One Picked' CD - Larue 'Reaching' CD - Supertones 'Hi-Fi Revival' CD - The Elms 'Truth Soul Rock & Roll' CD - Tree 63 'Life & Times Of Absolute Truth' CD - Phil Joel 'Bring It On' CD - Delirious 'Touch' CD You can send us your orders online right now to the-pillar@bigpoond.com or just give us a call on 3260 6170. More new music is on the way so stay tuned to the Brisbane Christian Chat news section for details to come. The Pillar - 'The bookstore for the bands'.
	01.11.02 - Peace and Love Concert in King George Square. From Kangaroo Point Uniting Church. The Peace and Love Concert (PAL Concert) will be held in King George Square on Saturday, November the 16th between 2pm and 4.30pm in the afternoon. The stage will be in front of the Brisbane City Hall. It is a non-political musical event with high quality entertainment by well-known artists. The feature group is Soul Purpose doing a broad range of music from rock to pop. We are also asking people to wear a flower and give them to others and dress in your best 70's gear! The event is free so bring your extended family and have a peaceful fun day. For more info contact paul@soulpurpose.com.au. Organised by the Kangaroo Point Uniting Church.
	01.11.02 - Band opportunity on 4OUR 101.5 FM Caboolture. From Carpetman. Peter Blakeney on 4OUR is looking for local bands to interview on his radio show on Saturday afternoons. You can contact him at home (after 7:30pm) on 07 3881 0760, or email him on ptr246@hotmail.com.
	01.11.02 - Propane show. From Propane. Show this Saturday night (02/11/02) at Brisbane's Rat & Parrot Hotel, Fortitude Valley. Propane will be playing songs from their new album 'Grace Over Karma' which is soon to be released by Toupee Records.
	01.11.02 - 211 In Progress launches website. From 211 In Progress. Brisbane based Christian hardcore outfit 211 In Progress has just launched its new website. This is a test version on a temporary link while we get the full site ready for upload. Here is the temp link for you all to check out. Enjoy!
	01.11.02 - Crew cuts. From The Rock Across Australia. The mainstream radio industry in the US is beginning to take note of the increasing market share for Christian music. Interep Radio (America's largest independent advertising sales and marketing company specialising in radio, the Internet and complementary media) recently reported that Religious and Gospel music now total 7.2% of all music sold in the US according to a new report from Interep Radio. Religious music sales jumped 70% from $549 million in 1997 to $920 million in 2001. The report stated that Country totaled 11.2%, Jazz 3.6%, and classical 3.4%. Movies have the Oscars, TV has the Emmy's, Broadway has the Tony Awards, the Gospel Music Association has the Dove Awards, and Catholics have the Unity Awards! The United Catholic Music and Video Association (UCMVA) recently presented a total of 50 awards at the third annual Unity Awards in Washington. Award winners include Tony Melendez (Artist of the Year) and Sarah Hart (Female Vocalist of the Year).