NEEDTOBREATHE is having a monumental year. Their music has always had mass appeal - based in the bands faith but accessible by the general public - similar Switchfoot in that way. Yet while Jon Foreman's band was playing "Dare You to Move" in arenas, festivals, and large auditoriums, Needtobreathe has been paying their dues playing in small clubs. Yet upon the August 2009 release of "The Outsiders," the band has seen exponential growth in their fanbase.

I recently saw them bring their "Won't Turn Back Tour" to a sold out House of Blues Chicago, which lead singer Bear Rinehart confessed was the largest headlining concert in the band's 10 year history. I saw them only 5 months earlier at Chicago's Lincoln Hall, which was their largest Windy City concert to date, but was only 1/3 the size of the HOB crowd. This shows the rapid growth in fan support in just a matter of months!

The concert started with Bo Rinehart strumming a banjo on the title cut of their career album "The Outsiders." The excitement level stayed high for their new song "Prisoner." When they grabbed a track from their debut album "Daylight" for their 3rd song, much of the energy was sucked out of the room. The performance was fantastic, and we even saw Beau play a guitar solo. Still, most of their fanbase is new, and can be contributed to "The Outsiders" album. Needtobreathe played more from their first CD later in the concert, which was an interesting choice.

The quality of musicianship is par none. It was a fabulous concert all-around. The only things I would be critical of are (a) being careful on killing musical momentum with some of their older songs, (b) their mid-set Beatles' cover song "Get Back" might have been a great idea on paper - and it was performed well - but fell flat with this crowd, and (c) choosing to end their main set with "Through Smoke" which did not beg for an encore. [In fact, wouldn't mind seeing "Through Smoke" struck from future concert playlists, IMHO.]

Now, let's put that behind us and focus on the highlights. Even though they having been playing large concert halls for long, Needtobreathe has a seasoned stage presence and a very tight performance. They owned the stage they were on, and it felt like they belonged there. My favorite song performances included The Outsiders, Prisoner, Something Beautiful, and Let Us Love.

In N2B signature style, they ended the night by turning off the P.A., and played a completely unplugged version of "Washed By The Water" and the Rolling Stones' cover "You Can't Always Get What You Want". These last songs really showcase their artistry and the power of Bear's voice.

All-in-all a terrific concert. Not sure if I would rate it higher than the time I saw them in Lincoln Hall last October, but great nonetheless. Overall I would give it an "A-" grade.

Visit our PHOTO GALLERY to view pictures from the Needtobreath concert at House of Blues Chicago.

I’ve had the chance to meet and interview a number of artists over the last year or so. One of the more personable and down-to-Earth artists was Laura Story. She’s likely best known as the songwriter of the huge worship anthem “Indescribable.” Here’s some of my conversation with this under-appreciated worship leader:

DT: How was the transition from being a songwriter to becoming a recording artist?
Laura: I have done three solo CD’s. The first two are independent, and this last one is with INO Records, called Great God Who Saves. I was thinking that my first independent CD that it was going to be a songwriting demo. I remember someone saying, “Just make it a little bit nicer and you can use it as a regular independent CD.” I asked what I would do with it, and they said, “You would sell it at your shows.” And I said, “But I don’t do shows! I don’t even know how to do that by myself.” So, I feel like I kind of fell into all of this. But it has been such a neat thing to get to travel around and share these songs that God has laid on my heart. The more I do it, the more I find that it’s so much less about whether I feel adequate as a singer or as a piano player. It’s so much more about God just using the gifts of His children to encourage other believers and to tell other people about Him.

DT: Are you working on any new music?
Laura: Yeah, I’m still writing and planning on doing another CD within the year. Actually, I’m taking a little break from my solo stuff to do some stuff with a group called Glory Revealed – a lot of Under The Radar types there – Mac Powell, Shane & Shane, Trevor Morgan, Shawn Lewis, Bethany Olds – just some great musicians and songwriters. When I’m not doing that, I’m still doing my own shows and leading worship at my church. So, it’s a full season, but I’m super excited.

DT: What’s your personal take on the topic of WORSHIP?
Laura: Worship seems to be the new, sexy thing for Christian radio. I don’t know why. It’s the new thing that’s cool, and that has pros and cons. You don’t want worship leaders writing for radio. But it’s cool that people riding down the road in their cars are singing songs not just about God, but to God. I’ve seen the quality of worship songs improving – maybe because so many great writers are writing for worship. It’s good, just as long as we don’t lose our focus, that these songs are an offering to God, and honestly they are resources for the Church. If they can serve in that purpose then they’re effective, and they’re great. If we get to the point where it’s too artist focused, like “Hey have you gotten the latest worship CD,” then we’re probably missing our mark there. As I’m writing for our church, I try to think, “What are the songs that our people in this congregation need to sing to God, and what are the things that God might want to say to our congregation?” Are we in a season where we need to be confessing and repenting to the Lord, or is it a season of praise? We should have – I know this sounds simple – a real sensitivity to what the Lord is wanting to say through these songs, or what our people need to be saying to the Lord through these songs, rather than “What’s the catchiest new tune or the catchiest new phrase we could use?”

DT: What are some things you like to do away from the stage & studio?
Laura: Yeah, I’ll tell you, I’ve been married 5+ years to this awesome, very good looking guy named Martin. It’s just the 2 of us right now – we don’t have kids – and we live in Atlanta, GA. We do a lot! When we’re not traveling, we’re hiking, biking, or other things. A couple Christmases ago, Martin got me this book called “50 Great Hikes in North Georgia.” We are determined to get through of those great hikes – and I think we’re on number 14 now. When I’m not traveling, and I’m not at church, we do a lot of outdoors stuff. I lead a small group Bible study of a group of women, and I love doing that. I’m in seminary at a place called Covenant Theological Seminary. So, we don’t have a lot of free time, but we’re just living life, making the most of it.


On the next two editions of “Under The Radar” (Episodes #71 and #72), we feature Praise & Worship-themed programs, with special guest Laura Story.

The year was 2007.  I was on a steady diet of fast-food Christian music – not that it was all bad – but the kind of non-stop radio friendly happy-go-lucky tunes that gives that greasy post-Quarter Pounder feeling.  Being involved in the radio biz, I could tell you who won the Dove Awards, which albums were certified gold, and what songs had hit #1.  I was a card carrying member of “The Industry.”

That year was a difficult one for my family.  We welcomed our 3^rd beautiful child into our family, but it was a difficult road getting there, with several pregnancy complications that tried us spiritually and emotionally.  To make matters worse, I was a leader in a church that was taking several wrong turns – a church my family ended up leaving that summer – yet another drain on our spiritual and emotional lives.

For most of my life, music has been one of the key ways that God has connected with me.  This early summer day in 2007 was no different.  I was enjoying other people’s music collections through iTunes shared network playlists.  Yet, this day I was in the mood for something more pensive.  I decided to give one guy’s collection of Andrew Peterson albums a spin.  I had only intended on it being background music.

I had been aware of Andrew Peterson’s existence, but since he wasn’t in the “CCM Industry” scene, I rarely heard his name mentioned anywhere.  I even owned a couple of his albums, but never listened to them.  As I worked at my desk listening to his songs on this iTunes playlist, one tune stopped me in my tracks.  I froze.  I listened.  I was awed by the beauty of this song.  I hit repeat.  I listened again.  In stillness, I started to cry.

The song is called “Lay Me Down” from Andrew’s album The Far Country.  It is far from “Butterfly Kisses.” It’s not a song designed to invoke tears.  It was an awakening in my soul to beautifully penned art.  I was discovering music that wasn’t radio-friendly, but could touch my heart and shake me to my core.

I fell in love with Andrew’s music that day, and I had many similar experiences with other songs of his.  In fact, God used his music that summer of 2007 as a healing salve on my life.  It’s amazing to think that less than 3 years later, Andrew and I are on a first name basis, I’ve interviewed him a couple of times, and promoted 3 concerts.  He knows I am huge supporter of him… and his talented friends, who also write music that – although it will never top the charts – can connect in the deepest parts of our souls.

Eventually, this would lead to the launch of my current radio program, where I hope to share that blessing I received in 2007 by offering up some “gourmet music.”  In fact, on the next episode of “Under The Radar” (available 3/19/10), I play that inspiring Andrew Peterson song that started it all, “Lay Me Down”. 

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written by Dave Trout

On Episode #70 of UTR, we play "What Love Can Do" by the talented Mindy Smith.  Here's a video of another of Mindy's fabulous songs, "Highs and Lows".

Mindy Smith "Highs And Lows" from Jon Grimson on Vimeo.

 

 

One of the great joys of my job is learning about terrific Christian artists that are mostly undiscovered.  One up-and- coming songwriter is Andrew Greer.  I had the chance to talk with him recently, and here’s some of our conversation:

DT:  When did you realize that you wanted to do music as a full-time career?
Andrew:  I loved music my entire life. My mother is a music educator and has been educated in music, so she infused my brothers and I with music of all sorts from an early age. And then, into high school - actually when I began going to live concerts and I began seeing the interaction between stage artists and the crowd… that’s where I first realized I wanted to do have a platform because I wanted to interact with people through music.

DT:  What led to the creation of your debut album Open Book?
Andrew:  In 2006, I went out to Wyoming for about six to eight months just to have some personal time. The purpose was to learn how to be alone with myself and alone with God and to really see God. Fortunately He did show up! Honestly, at that time I was just kind of in a personal wreck where I just needed to get clear headed. I started out at this place at the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park. The owners of this old historic lodge, gave me access to an old upright piano from maybe the 1930's. The Shoshone mountains, and the Shoshone river, national forests, everything was just right outside the window. And that’s really where a bulk of the record was either written or inspired by that.

DT:  What’s the story behind the song “Time Has No Meaning”?
Andrew:  Yes, “Time Has No Meaning” is a very, very special song to me - very personal. I grew up in Texas and a good family friend of our entire family, Betty Hicks,  lost her husband Gaylon a couple years ago unexpectedly. He just died from a heart attack - boom. She's close to 70 years old and they've probably been married close to 50 years. A lot of people use those kind of statistics to diminish what she was going through and the grief that she has to process through. You know, there’s no real formula for how grief hits and for how the death of a loved one will hit us and there’s no real quick remedy either. She said to me one time: "Andrew, I have all these things on my schedule book. I have lunches that I need to be at, doctors appointments, church gatherings, etc. But without Gaylon I walk around as if time has no meaning."  I thought that was such a poignant way for her to explain what was happening in her life at that very time. I just wanted to coin that into the song, that time has no meaning. I think my favorite line in that song says "Lonely is the word I barely even utter. But man I feel it every time I sit down for dinner." And I just wanted to paint a picture of what this looks like and what the grief looks like.

DT:  Finally, do you have any artists that have been an inspiration to you?
Andrew:  Yes, this is too easy. You have obviously listened to the record. Good job Dave! There's a song on the record called "Emmylou" - Emmylou Harris is the ultimate for me. Emmylou if you're listening...(laughting) She is an under the radar artist though. There are many other influences - a lot of black gospel influences and New Orleans zydeco. But I discovered Emmylou Harris after college actually - just a few years ago. That’s where the melancholy comes from as well. She is known for her sad songs. And she knows how to carry it with her voice. I wish I had that big wallowed out vibrato.


Tune in to the current edition of “Under The Radar” (Episode #69), as Andrew Greer is our special guest all hour.  Plus check our website for how you can win an autographed copy of “Open Book”!

This past Saturday, a big benefit concert took place at the historic Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville. The efforts were to raise funds for the Haiti relief efforts through Compassion International, an organization that has already been ministering in Haiti for over 4 decades.

OK… those are the facts. Now, let me kick my shoes off and tell you what it was like to experience this event first-hand. In a word… Amazing! It was one of the coolest concert experiences I’ve had in my life.

Any concert in the Ryman is special, but this was a sold-out concert featuring some of my favorite artists (many of which I regularly play on Under The Radar) including Brandon Heath, Needtobreathe, Jon Foreman, Matt Wertz, Dave Barnes, Mat Kearney – among others – and featured a rare 2010 performance from Alison Krauss & Union Station. It was first time hearing AKUS live, and they knocked my socks off – 5 songs that were virtually without a single flaw.

Compassion artist Shaun Groves organized the entire event, and did an unbelievable job. Nearly every piece of the event – from artists to production to catering – was donated, so that 100% of the net revenue from the event (and 100% of all online donations) could go directly to Compassion’s disaster relief fund for Haiti.

“The talent side has all donated their time,” said Groves in an interview I had with him backstage before the concert began. “The Ryman Auditorium is owned by Gaylord Entertainment, and they’ve been able to underwrite our show so that we don’t have the big expense of a venue. We got LiveStream and Eleven2 hosting and have donated all their services – literally a half-million dollars in services just to make the live stream happen.”

Shaun was able to announce during the concert that on top of the donating the use of the Ryman, Gaylord Entertainment contributed an additional $25,000 to Compassion’s Haiti relief efforts.

Jars of Clay had one of the more humorous moments of the night. They were having some obvious technical issues in getting their set started. Guitarist Steve Mason finally gave up on getting any audio out of his electric guitar and switched to his acoustic. He quick-wittedly grabbed the mic and said, “How appropriate at the Ryman that the electric stuff doesn’t work.” CLICK HERE to see a video of this memorable moment.

I got a chance to talk to Jars backstage, and asked them why they wanted to be a part of the concert. “We’ve been looking for something to do for Haiti,” said lead singer Dan Haseltine. The obvious response is to text to donate and things of that nature. But as a band we tried to figure out a way to leverage some of our own music and creativity to benefit the story that’s going on there and help relief efforts. This was really just a perfect fit. It was a good way to get on stage and show our support and use our voices to make a difference.”

Readers, viewers, & attendees have the chance to donate $10 onto your phone bill by texting the word “Disaster” to 90999.

“All these people stepped up together and gave,” shared event organizer Shaun Groves. “It’s just been phenomenal to see the body of Christ come together and say, “What do you need; we’re here. “We want to help you guys help Haiti.” It’s been really encouraging and really neat to see.”

Look for exclusive Help Haiti Live concert photos, videos, & interview audio coming soon to this site and to Facebook.com/radarradio.

I’ve been thinking lately about the songs that I’m drawn to, and the ones that I connect with emotionally.  There was a day when I was digesting a steady diet of CCM Radio Music – which has a tendency to be overtly encouraging and happy.

But in the last year, I have fallen more in love with sad songs.  The artists that inspire me tend to look through melancholy glasses.  But why is this happening?  Why am I growing less interested in the standard contemporary praise songs of the day, and finding solace in the arms of minor chords?  I don’t feel any more sour or depressed.  So why?

I’m wondering if the answer is found in the crafting of art itself.  When a worship leader writes the new song “You’re an Awesome, Huge God” (make believe title, albeit believable), they are doing so with the masses in mind.  They are envisioning their song being sung by thousands and on heavy rotation on K-Love.  This vision isn’t far off for those who write the next “positive and encouraging” hit for believers to sing along to in their cars.  It’s art for the masses.  Nothing wrong with it… that’s just what it is.

Yet some artists dig into their souls and reveal the brokenness, pain, struggle, and hurt that they are working out in their everyday lives.  Their faith is an important part of the journey, but it doesn’t serve as a spiritual Band-Aid on their sadness.  We are let into an area of vulnerability and weakness.  It’s art for one; maybe to connect with one listener, or maybe just a song to work out something in that artist’s own life.  It’s small.  It’s personal.  It’s sad.  And I find myself diving into the deep end of this kind of art.

Jon Foreman (Switchfoot lead singer/songwriter) wrote an interesting article for the Huffington Post and said:
“I don't write songs when I'm happy. When I'm content, I take my wife out to dinner, I go surfing. I hang out with my friends and play ridiculous cover tunes when I'm happy. But when I'm depressed, I turn to look for something beyond this life. When I'm lonely and nothing makes sense and the world has lost its flavor I search for notes and words that usher in a transcendence that soars high above the tragedy. I look for song to understand the present tragedy in the context of a hope for a better world. I look for words that remind me of a bigger story, for songs that acknowledge the tragedy and move beyond it.”

Well said, Jon Foreman.  I don’t need hope or inspiration when I’m happy and all is right with the world.  Music helps me deal with my own weaknesses and the broken world around me.

To celebrate, I have one of the most beautifully penned “sad songs” I’ve heard in some time on Episode #67 “Under The Radar”.  And since I searched the Interweb and could not find these lyrics published anywhere, I transcribed the song for your reading encouragement.

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LYRICS:  "WRITE ONE" by Tommy Sims from CD Peace and Love

Let me write one today that speaks for all the losers
Let me write one today that speaks to all the confusion
And may the lyric be not clever neither smart
And should they ask where I was coming from, let it be from the heart
May the melody one day find its mark

Let me somehow say that you are not the problem
But now how to best convey, you alone could not solve them
Could be the difference ‘tween what is and is to come
And facing down these monkey demons I’ve been so long running from
Now ordinarily I would be glad to play that song
But you’d always call the one with something beautiful to say

This is not the day, I can’t go on right now in that vein, ‘cause I cannot see the light
Sitting here in the dark, trying to mend two pieces of a broken heart
So please let me off today, I just needed to write one this way

Let me write today for those of us short on the answers
If I could just play one today for all you solo dancers
And if of this step with which you’re leading, you’re not sure
Then may the tears in these proceedings bring your healing heart a cure
Maybe just until your song is played, that one from back in the day
You know the one with something wonderful to say

But this is not the day, I can’t go on right now in that vein, cause I cannot feel the sun
A little bit in the dark, trying to bridge two pieces torn all apart
I am not myself today, I just needed to write one this way

‘Cause I can’t get back the feeling I once had
And I can’t go back to living in the past

At least not today, Baby I can’t go out any more on that sage
Because I’m just not having fun
I can’t find my part, all that’s left of these pieces of bleeding heart
So darling if I may be excused from the words on this page
I am simply not myself today
I just had to write this one this way

I had the privelege of seeing my first ever Switchfoot concert this week at Chicago's House of Blues.  Even on a Tuesday night, it was a sold-out crowd, and you could sense an excitement in the air.  It was the first time I received a press pass specifically with UTR, so I was feeling like Daddy Warbucks!

After the so-so opening act Paper Tigers (didn't impress me all that much), Switchfoot took the stage and ripped into their opening track from Hello Hurricane, "Needle and Haystack Life."

What didn't surprise me at all was the musical excellence, the energetic stage presence of Jon Foreman, and the loyal fan participation.  One thing that did surprise me was even with a backlog of incredible songs in their past, Switchfoot played the majority of songs off of Hello Hurricane, and it was fab-u-lous!  Of course they did play some of their radio singles from the past like "Meant to Live," "Stars," "Gone," and they closed with their anthem "Dare You To Move".

They did not disappoint; not for a second.

Since a picture is worth a 1000 words -- and to make good use of my media credentials -- take a look at our exclusive Switchfoot Concert Photo Gallery.

Last month, I went on a mini-tour with Nashville songwriter Eric Peters in an effort to promote Under The Radar.  True, this was small potatoes in the world of touring.  All of our venues were either in Chicagoland or Western Michigan – which allowed me to actually sleep in my own bed most nights.  But still, this was a first for me – so here’s the Top 10 things I learned from the tour.

10.  Eric Peters loves his family.  This was the longest Eric had been away from home in years.  He checked in with his family several times per day, and missed them a ton.  It was admirable.

9.  Days off are a good thing.  I was disappointed in myself that I couldn’t book a concert event every day (although 11 events in 12 days is not bad… especially in January).  But if did more promotional tours in the future, I would intentionally insert off days.  We both needed it!

8.  Gino’s East is #1.  You can’t spend 10 days in Chicago without PIZZA!  Eric had previously experienced Giordano’s.  On this trip, I introduced him to Gino’s East, Lou Malnati’s, and south-suburban thin crust specialists Beggars.  In the end, Gino’s reigned supreme.

7.  Love offerings are awkward.  Thankfully, we only had to do one… and it was the first night of the tour.

6.  We NEEDED the Saints to win.  Eric is from south Louisiana, and is a long-suffering Saints fan.  As the tour would have it, I got to watch both Saints playoff games prior to the Superbowl.  I quickly realized that if the Saints failed during this tour, Eric would be… how do I say this nicely… um… emotionally fragile.

5.  Party in the U.S.A.  Eric heard the Miley Cyrus hit for the first time while on the tour!  Yes, the first time!  Welcome out from the rock you were living under for the last 6 months!

4.  Welcome to Powell Bookstore.  I am a rookie when it comes to the universe of used bookstores.  Eric introduced me to what apparently is the Gino’s East of paperbacks.  I actually bought 3 books.

3.  Touring is not glamorous.  Even though this tour had a lot less travel than most, it was still a grueling schedule – a little bit of time off in the morning, but then solid work from about 2pm-11pm.  When you add in radio interviews and other duties as assigned, it’s no vacation.  I have a deeper sympathy toward the traveling artist.

2.  MAH’-lo-nee.  No radio person likes to eat the humble pie of having mispronounced an artist’s name.  It’s bad enough once, but I learned that I had misspoken for years of Bill Mallonee, former lead singer of Vigilantes of Love.  I had always heard and spoke his name like “muh-LOW-nee” (think “Mahoney”).  I come to find out that Eric is a friend of Bill, and his name is actually “MAH-lo-nee” (not far from “felony”).  Yes, humble pie.

1.  Eric Peters is worth getting to know.  I first direct you to his craft.  Too many are missing Eric’s excellent music and gut-wrenchingly honest songwriting.  I implore you to stop reading and go buy his CD Chrome.  He’s a great live performer too – good stories, skillful guitar playing, pure vocals, and a humble stage presence.  So if you bought his CD like I told you to, your next mission is to see Eric live in concert, or invite him to your town/church yourself.  You’ll be fully satisfied with those 2 steps, but if you have had the privilege (like me) at spending some quality time with Eric, you are blessed indeed.  Eric’s friendship was and will be my favorite part of our tour.

Browse around this site for some exclusive photos and videos from the UTR/Eric Peters Tour.

Congrats to our grand prize winner: Judson Neer.  You'll be receiving 2010 minutes of music (over 40 CD's)!

But that's not all.  These 6 listeners will win our runner up prize, a new UTR t-shirt:  Brandon Kashitani, Randy Doleman, Anjeanine Brown, Walt Coyle, Doug Kimball, and Adam Cline.

Reflecting on the year gone by, our UTR panel of critics made their recommendations for the Top Gourmet Songs of last year. As you might expect, the choices vary widely because a lot of these are based on how certain songs connected with each person. However, we're confident that you can peruse this list and find some new gems to add to your music collection.

CRITIC: Dave Trout

1. “Resurrection” – Jill Phillips – The Good Things
2. “The Golden Boy & The Prodigal” – Jason Gray – Everything Sad is Coming Untrue
3. “Reality Came Crashing Down” – Eric Peters – Chrome
4. “Always” – Switchfoot – Hello Hurricane
5. “Woe to You” – Matt Papa – Your Kingdom Come
6. “Something Beautiful” – Needtobreathe – The Outsiders
7. “The Time is Now” – Phil Wickham – Heaven Earth
8. “What You Give Up to Get it” – Derek Webb – Stockholm Syndrome
9. “Hero” – Skillet – Awake
10. “Jubilee” – Randall Goodgame – Bluebird

CRITIC: John J. Thompson

1. “Remembrance” – Matt Maher and Matt Redman – Alive Again
2. “Magnificent” – U2 – No Line On The Horizon
3. “Go”– Kate York – For You
4. “Mess of Me” – Switchfoot – Hello Hurricane
5. “Follow You” – Leeland – Love Is On The Move
6. “My Own True Love” – Rhona Kelley – Quite Contrary
7. “What You Gonna Do Leroy?” - Buddy Miller with Robert Plant - Written In Chalk
8. “What Matters More?” – Derek Webb – Stockholm Syndrome
9. “Beyond Here Lies Nothing” – Bob Dylan – Together Through Life

CRITIC: Russ Breimeier

1. “Jesus Will Meet You There” – Steven Curtis Chapman – Beauty Will Rise
2. “Fail Us Not” – 1000 Generations Turn off the Lesser Lights
3. “Different Kinds of Happy” – Sara Groves – Fireflies and Songs
4. “Always” – Switchfoot – Hello Hurricane
5. “Magnificent” – U2 = No Line On The Horizon
6. “Get Up and Walk” – Bethany Dillon – Stop and Listen
7. “The Time is Now” – Phil Wickham – Heaven & Earth
8. “Fade With Our Voices” – Jason Gray – Everything Sad is Coming Untrue
9. “The Outsiders” – Needtobreathe – The Outsiders
10. “Joy Unspeakable” – Todd Agnew – Need

CRITIC: Andrew Greer

1. “Forgive Yourself” – Julie Lee – Will There Really Be A Morning
2. “From This One Place” – Sara Groves – Fireflies and Songs
3. “Chalk"– Buddy & Julie Miller (w/ Patty Griffin) – Written in Chalk
4. “Stones Under Rushing Water” – Needtobreathe (w/ Sara Watkins) – The Outsiders
5. “Telescope” – Mindy Smith – Stupid Love
6. “Walk on Water” – Jason Crabb – Jason Crabb
7. “Carry Me Home” – Aaron Shust – Take Over
8. “Bring Us Home” – The Brighton –
9. “By Our Love” – Christy Nockels – Life Light Up
10. “Ooh, We Need Jesus” – Sara Beth Geoghegan – Tired of Singing Sad Songs

CRITIC: Amber Bolton

1. “Anchor” – Satellites and Sirens – Breaking the Noise EP
2. “How He Loves” – David Crowder Band – Church Music
3. “Hold On” – Abandon – Searchlights
4. “Hope Now” – Addison Road – Addison Road
5. “God of this City” – Bluetree – God of this City
6. “Backfire” – MuteMath – Armistice
7. “Scenic Route” – Jars of Clay – The Long Fall Back to Earth
8. “Miracle” – Robbie Seay Band – Miracle
9. “Something Beautiful” – Needtobreathe – The Outsiders
10. “Dance or Die” – Family Force 5 – Dance or Die

CRITIC: Bob Pierce

1. “You Love Me Anyway” – Sidewalk Prophets – These Simple Truths
2. “Build My Wall” – Chad Perron – Grace
3. “Man On the Cross” – Covenant 31 – Man on the Cross
4. “One Reason” – Chynna and Vaughan – One Reason
5. “My Tribute” – Israel Houghton – The Power of One
6. “Lay ‘Em Down” – Needtobreathe – The Outsiders
7. “What Would I do” – Dave Pettigrew – Every Minute Miracles
8. “Be the Change” – Jimmy Dooley – Jesus Music

CRITIC: Kevin Davis

1. “It’s Me” – Sara Groves – Fireflies and Songs
2. “Back and Forth” – Lanae Hale – Back and Forth
3. “Home” – Philip LaRue – Let the Road Pave Itself
4. “We Can Try” – Between the Trees – Spain
5. “Heavy Hearted” – The Glorious Unseen – The Hope That Lies in You
6. “For the First Time Again” – Jason Gray – Everything Sad is Coming Untrue
7. “Hallelujah, Our God Reigns” – Matt Papa – Your Kingdom Come
8. “Bless His Name” – Jeremy Riddle – The Now and Not Yet
9. “Unbreak Me” – Paige Armstrong – Wake Up
10. “Don’t You Know You’re Beautiful” – Seabird – Rocks Into Rivers

CRITIC: Jeremy Gudauskas

1. “White As Snow” – U2 – No Line On The Horizon
2. “What Matters More” – Derek Webb – Stockholm Syndrome
3. “Clockwork” – Sleeping at Last – Storyboards
4. “When She’s Near” – Fiction Family – Fiction Family
5. “All Creatures of Our God and King” – Josh Garrels – Lost Animals
6. “In the Middle of It” – Waterdeep – In the Middle of It
7. “Babylon” – Aaron Strumple – Elephants
8. “But For You Who Fear My Name” – Welcome Wagon – Welcome to the Welcome Wagon
9. “Long Hot Summer Days” – Sara Watkins – Sara Watkins
10. Chrome” – Eric Peters – Chrome

In a small step toward global dominance, Under The Radar is getting the word out grassroots-style about the program by promoting & sponsoring a Chicago-area tour featuring Nashville indie songwriter Eric Peters. If you’re in IL or MI, we’d love to see you at any of these shows:

• Thur, Jan. 14 – New Hope Church (Alsip, IL) – 8:30PM
• Fri, Jan. 15 – SouthBridge Church (Orland Park, IL) – 7:00PM
• Sat, Jan. 16 – Elmhurst CRC (Elmhurst, IL) – 7:00PM
• Sun, Jan. 17 – The Underground at Alleluia! Lutheran (Naperville, IL) – 11:30AM
• Mon, Jan. 18 – Private Event (Palos Heights, IL)
• Thur, Jan. 21 – Hickory Creek Community Church (Frankfort, IL) – 7:00PM
• Fri, Jan. 22 – Grace Reformed Church (Lansing, IL) – 7:30PM
• Sat, Jan. 23 – Parkview Church Lockport (Lockport, IL) – 7:00PM
• Sun, Jan. 24 – Georgetown CRC (Hudsonville, MI) – 6:45PM
• Mon, Jan. 25 – Calvin College (Grand Rapids, MI) – 8:00PM

For details about any of these events, contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

For the first time, Under The Radar presents the Top 11 Gourmet Albums of 2009. This list is a collaboration of a panel of critics who nominated the best art made by Christians in the CCM industry and in the mainstream - based on creative songwriting, production quality, artistic presentation, and spiritual depth.

1. Fireflies & Songs - Sara Groves

Like a gourmet meal, this album is one to savor.  One critic said, "With such naked songwriting & inspired delivery, Groves articulates heartache & pain as if it is her holy calling.". Another of our reviewers stated, "It’s hard to imagine, but Sara has now once again released her best album, topping all of her previous excellent work."

2. Hello Hurricane - Switchfoot

With Switchfoot's seventh studio release, we see a darker, moodier side to this award-winning band.  Lyrically, this CD is more mature and hopeful than previous releases. One of our critics said this album is "accessible yet intelligent... Hello Hurricane undeniably returns them to top form."

3. The Outsiders – Needtobreathe

"It’s not just music, it’s an experience" were the words of one of our critics when describing The Outsiders. Their previous work is acclaimed, but this time around Needtobreathe infused more blues and roots into their songs.  The result is a career-to-date best album.

4. Stockholm Syndrome – Derek Webb

The envelope-pushing Derek Webb's latest offering was not without controversy. His leap into the world of electronics is a step forward artistically, but it's his no-topic-is-off-limits approach to lyrics that makes this "a significant album that the Church will be chewing on for years to come."

5. Sara Watkins – Sara Watkins

The debut solo album of Nickle Creek member Sara Watkins spotlights her "immense vocal and multi-instrumental talent." This CD is brimming with authenticity and subtlety, with influences from folk to country to gospel.  The real star is Sara's mesmerizing voice, and the winners are anyone who gives this a listen.

6. Fiction Family – Fiction Family

When you get the collaborative minds of Jon Foreman and Sean Watkins together, you know something good is going to come from it. The album is, in the words of one of our critic, "all around amazing acoustic-oriented pop music."  Let's hope this was more than just a one-off album.

7. No Line on the Horizon – U2

Christian themes permeate throughout No Line on the Horizon and you get an album that is, in the words of one of our reviewers, "layered, thoughtful, insightful and passionate."  This CD isn't full of radio singles, so it tends to grow on you with each listen.

8. Lost Animals  – Josh Garrels

Blending aspects of folk, neo-soul, and electronica Josh Garrels newest release Lost Animals brings an album that is "artistically unique, musically fresh, and certified organic." This album imaginatively shares how a broken creation is yearning for redemption.  Don't let this one fall through the cracks!

9. The Long Fall Back To Earth – Jars of Clay

Returning with yet another gem is Jars of Clay. One reviewer described this album as a "portrait of a band that's operating at creative full-speed."  While the band steps into electronica, they still deliver some gourmet folk-rock anthems with socially-charged lyrics.

10. Heaven and Earth - Phil Wickham

In Gourmetmusicland, usually more synthesizers is not a good thing. Phil Wickham proved us wrong by creating an epic album with thematic substance.  One critic said Heaven and Earth proves that "Wickham deserves to rank with A-list artists."

11. Written in Chalk – Buddy & Julie Miller

When talking about this duo’s latest release, one of our reviewers stated, "This is everything I love about music right here."  Another critic said that Written in Chalk "further establishes The Millers' reign as Americana music's leading duet." Now let the conversation begin!  What do you think about our list? What did we get right and what's missing?  Let us know!

In addition to our Top 11 Gourmet Albums of 2009 we have a few honorable mentions.

Chrome - Eric Peters

Featured on UTR episode 42, this Louisiana native released to date his career best album in August 2009. One of our reviewers stated "His previous releases featured solid songwriting and quality musicianship, but Chrome takes both of these to another level."

Beauty Will Rise - Steven Curtis Chapman

Steven Curtis Chapman’s latest album Beauty Will Rise was described as "incredibly engaging, hopeful, and relatable" by one of our critics. The emotion contained within it is palpable as Chapman deals with the tragic loss of his daughter just 18 months before the album's release.

The Hope that Lies in You - The Glorious Unseen

Described as "evocative worship music that holds a flickering candle of hope in darkened corridors of the human heart" the Glorious Unseen takes another of our honorable mentions.

Back and Forth - Lanae Hale

Lanae was featured on UTR episode 33, and her first full length album was one of the best pop albums of the year. The CD has "catchy melodies and a fantastic singing style" in the words of one critic. Do you think our list hit a home run? Or do you have some Gourmet Albums that we missed? Let us know!

Our Top 11 Gourmet Albums of 2009 list would not have been possible without the hard work of our panel of critics.

Andrew Greer - Artist & Freelance Reviewer - andrew-greer.com

Bob Pierce - Radio Host & Program Director - thelightradio.net

Amber Bolton - Concert Promoter & Blogger - hopecoffeemelody.blogspot.com

Dave Trout - Host of UTR - facebook.com/radarradio

John J. Thompson - Writer, Critic, & Label Director - johnjthompson.blogspot.com

Kevin Davis - Music Reviewer - newreleasetuesday.com/nrteam/kevindavis

Russ Breimeier - Writer & Music Critic - noisywhisper.com

Jeremy Gudauskas - Concert Promoter - nccunion.com

Coming mid-January, we will reveal each critic's personal top Gourmet Album and Gourmet Song list for 2009.  Stay tuned!

This morning, the town where I live experienced the first snowfall of the season. I'm sure it was pretty. I'm sure God wanted to remind me of the whiteness of His forgiveness. But, I was running late on getting my kids to school, so we were rush, rush, rushing. As my car slid on the cold pavement, I was beginning to look at the snow as a serious inconvenience; heaven forbid I have to drive 5 MPH slower!

The Christmas season tends to bring out the worst of our impatience. Yes, the cards are stacked against us. On the one hand, there seems to be so much more to do this time of year - church plays, family gatherings, school performances, social parties, cooking, cleaning, shopping. Yet, as we try to fit in more this month, everything tends to take longer to accomplish - more layers to bundle up in, more time for your car to warm up, more traffic to fight, longer lines to stand in, and to cap it all off... snow! Ugh!

If I quieted my life enough, I might notice that God is speaking through the snow. He's reminding all of us that our souls are made spotless, clean, and pure through the forgiveness we have in Jesus. Instead, I get upset at the snow because it slows me down. But maybe that's exactly what I need.

Could I busy my life to the point that I miss the point - even miss the manger itself? For this reason I am so happy for the reminders in my life that will cause me to never forget my Savior's birth. I see it in the Advent wreath, that builds anticipation. I hear it in the old Christmas hymns that are played by even the most pagan radio station. I find it in the candles and lights placed in windows, proclaiming that the Light of the world has come. I see it... yes, even in the snow.

This coming weekend, we will air the first of 3 all-Christmas music episodes of "Under The Radar". We find unique and creative remakes of holiday classics alongside thoughtful Christmas originals from some under-appreciated songwriters. I invite you to listen or download, even take with you during those busy hustle-and-bustle moments, and let the music draw you to the manger.

LET EVERY HEART PREPARE HIM ROOM!

One of the roles I love as a Dad is helping my children overcome their fears. Sometimes it's in the very small things, like trying a new food. At times it's a bigger challenge, like getting on one of those rickety rides at the local carnival.

My kids are a bit introverted, so they seem to be prone to timidity. I take on the role of coach as I challenge them often to stretch beyond their comfort zone.

I've seen how fear can affect people's health, cripple a church, hurt marriages, and cause businesses to fail. I also think of the football quarterback that loses his accuracy because he's afraid of tallying up a record number of interceptions (...not mentioning any names... Jay Cutler).

One of the simple activities I do with my kids is to have them jump off the stairs into my arms. I often challenge them to go one step higher. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. You can see their desire to leap off the higher step, but they are frozen because of fear.

I will say, "Look at me. Daddy will never, never, never drop you. I'll always catch you!"

My assurance doesn't always help, but sometimes my kids trust me enough to take the plunge. They quickly realize that I was there for them, and there was really nothing to be scared of after all.

What are the areas in your life where fear has frozen you? Is God daring you to take a risk that's outside your comfort zone? What's stopping you from leaping?

One of our "Under The Radar" listeners introduce me to the music of JJ Heller earlier this year. Even after 4 albums, she's gone largely undiscovered for the last 6 years. But the world is catching on to one of her hidden gems she released in 2008 called "Your Hands." It was featured on the Fox TV show "So You Think You Can Dance," and now has a national audience taking notice of this gifted songwriter. I'll be playing this breakthrough song on the next "Under The Radar."

The lyrics remind me that God sees things from a much different perspective than I do. Because I fail to trust Him with all of my heart, I get tripped up by my own fears and insecurities. Yet, He's coaxing me on, gently reminding me, "Son, I'm here. I won't fail you. My hands will always catch you!"

May you and I both go one step higher in our faith, ready to leap into the Father's trustworthy grip, "...for God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." (2 Timothy 1:7)

Congratulations to these 3 UTR listeners who will each receive a Phil Wickham Discography.  (Thanks to INO Records for their partnership!)

Christopher Gruning - Clinton, MS

Tom Martin - Coral Springs, FL

Chris Smith - Winston-Salem, NC

Stay tuned.... Later this month we'll be launching our biggest contest to date!

How thankful are you the day after Thanksgiving?

I mean, we sit at our tables, with turkey and mashed potatoes and gravy and talk about how blessed we are. We say prayers of thanks to God and we thank the people in our lives for the things they have done for us. We remember the people that have died in the past, and the troubles we had to face to get to where we are in life, love, and a million other things.

And then we put away the turkey and buy a newspaper so we can scope out the best deals. We make plans of attack, pack baggies full of food so that we can eat in line while waiting at Best Buy, Macy's and Target. We forget everything we were so grateful for not even an hour ago and make plans to buy things that are bigger, better, and much more attractive. We get angry and frustrated when we get to the store and they are SOLD OUT of the product we want. We make a fuss about the lines and the lack of parking spaces. We complain about the staff that have left their families early on this Holiday weekend and have been there for hours just to open the store at 5am. We forget everything that happened last night.

Isn't something wrong with that?

Here we were just thanking God for what we have and now we're trying to get MORE stuff. We've made a production out of Thanksgiving, but just like the theatre, once it's over it's just a memory - rarely to be thought of again.

To help along these lines, "Under The Radar" this weekend presents a Thanksgiving special where all the music focuses on the theme of gratefulness. Maybe if we remind ourselves enough, we'll remember that thankfulness is a 365-day occurrence in the year of the Christ follower.

The three following UTR listeners' names were drawn to receive an autographed copy of Randall Goodgame's CD "Bluebird":

Ben Parten - Valdosta, GA

Breann Stephens - Racine, MO

Adebiyi Adeyemi - Trieste, Italy

Be on the lookout... a new contest with INO recording artist Phil Wickham will begin in just a few days!