Well, here it is--1997, the start of a brand new year. This time of year always seems like an incredible time of hope, doesn't it? It's that point in time when, thanks to some vacation time and the enjoyment of the holidays, I have forgotten all the stress and craziness of the last few months and I'm ready to make fifty new resolutions that I can't possibly keep. Actually, being the environmentally-conscious person that I am, I've taken to simply recycling those resolutions I didn't keep last year onto the next year's list. I think that this year I might be able to keep all my resolutions from 1980.
But seriously folks, the great thing about a new year is the infinite world of possibilities that just might happen in the next twelve months. And, if you haven't been keeping up with Christian music in Louisville, then right now is the perfect time to do just that, and be a part of a rapidly-changing music scene. When I started this column back in early fall, there was no Christian coffeehouse, no real local scene, and no networking going on among Christian musicians. In the space of just a few months, that has already changed. Not only has Jonah's Java become a successful part of the Louisville CCM scene, it's getting ready to start stretching and growing a bit. The first glimpse of this is Jonah's brand new concert series, a monthly event that will bring in a nationally known act. This month kicks it off, and at 7.30 p.m. on January 10, Bride will take the stage for what promises to be a very high-energy show. For ticket information, call 363-4434 or 368-4673.
And on the 24th , look for a band that Jonah's coordinator Christopher Lewis describes as "Beatlesque," Five Smooth Stones. Don't know about you, but I'm a sucker for good "Beatlesque." Both these bands are nationally known acts and well worth checking out.
But wait!! There's more!! Local alterna-pop band Fish Tales is heading back into the studio this month to start a new album project with a projected release date of mid-1997. Fans of jazz/funk/pop will not be disappointed with any offering from this talented band.
Also, be on the lookout for sightings of some of the best of the best of local CCM acts like Death Defying Leap and Zoe. Chuck Jeter's new album was reviewed in last month's LMN. And then there's Paul and Leslie Turner's new project, Something for Everyone, on sale at local area Christian bookstores. Looking at the album credits, I still cannot believe that one person can play – and play well – all those instruments. Paul is a walking 5-piece band in one! (Leslie's no slouch, either.– Ed.)
As far as the national scene goes, I already have a new favorite album of 1997. In March, run, don't walk, to your nearest Christian bookstore to pick up Grover Levy's new project Wrestling With Angels. Intelligent pop with lots of crunchy guitar and great songwriting. Projects as good as this are rare in CCM-land.
In February, I'll have an in-depth look at Christian Music Connection, an exciting new networking organization for Christian musicians in Louisville. This is definitely one of best things I've heard about in a while to help local Christian musicians and spread the word about the great music and musicians in Louisville. I'll be talking with organizer Kevin Brodie about CMC and filling you in on all its juicy details.
Well, that's it for this month – have to go get started on those resolutions from 1980. If you've still got room on your resolutions list, resolve to support the Christian music scene in Louisville. With all of the great changes taking place, 1997 promises to be a memorable year and I wouldn't want you to miss a bit of it.