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		<title>Sent By Ravens Haven’t Missed a Beat on Comeback Single “A Quiet War”</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/sent-by-ravens-havent-missed-a-beat-on-comeback-single-a-quiet-war/</link>
					<comments>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/sent-by-ravens-havent-missed-a-beat-on-comeback-single-a-quiet-war/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 20:46:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[a quiet war]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[andy o'neal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christian hardcore]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christian rock]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dane anderson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jamie windham]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jj leonard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sent by ravens]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[zach riner]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=2050</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[After 14 years without new music, Sent By Ravens are back with “A Quiet War,” and it does not sound like a band trying to rediscover who they are. This sounds like Sent By Ravens. These guys haven’t missed a beat. For longtime fans, that may be the best thing I can say about their return. Sent By Ravens built a loyal following with albums like Our Graceful Words and Mean What You Say, combining hard rock and post-hardcore with memorable melodies, emotional songwriting, and the unmistakable voice of Zach Riner. Fourteen years is a long time, but “A Quiet War” feels like a natural continuation rather than a forced attempt to recreate the past. The guitar work from Andy O’Neal throughout the song is excellent. There is plenty of melody, but the guitars still carry some real weight, especially as the song continues building. The band knows when to pull back and when to hit harder, giving “A Quiet War” a dynamic feel instead of simply throwing everything at you from the beginning. And then there is that chorus. “Burn it downThrone of goldBurn it with all that is sacredWhen the story endsLet it be told” It is the kind of chorus that sticks with you immediately. Powerful, melodic, and meaningful. After all these years, these words are just as graceful. One of the most memorable moments comes when the music gives way to the voice of a young girl saying: “Courage is not silencing fear, it’s discovering the loudest voice inside doesn’t get to write your story.” That line captures much of what the song feels like. “A Quiet War” deals with the battles happening beneath the surface, where fear, doubt, and the voices inside our own heads can sometimes become louder than everything else. Then the song begins to build again. Sent By Ravens could have simply ridden out the melody, but instead they take the song somewhere much heavier. Everything erupts into a nasty breakdown behind the declaration: “Be stillListen closeQuiet your mind nowThere is moreKeep going” That section is one of my favorite moments in the song. The heaviness does not feel thrown in just for the sake of having a breakdown. The music supports the message, and when that moment hits, it hits hard. Most importantly, “A Quiet War” feels authentic. There is enough familiarity here for someone who followed Sent By Ravens during the Tooth &#38; Nail years to immediately recognize the band, but it does not sound trapped in 2010 either. They sound older, seasoned, and confident without losing what made people love them in the first place. After waiting 14 years, I could not have asked for a much better return. Sent By Ravens are currently only scheduled to play Louder Than Life in Kentucky, but I am looking forward to getting the chance to see them live again. Even more than that, “A Quiet War” has me ready to hear the new album and find out where this next chapter takes them. If this is our first taste of what is coming from Sent By Ravens, bring it on. “A Quiet War” written by Jamie Windham, Zach Riner, JJ Leonard, Dane Andersen, and Andy O’Neal. Watch “A Quiet War” on YouTube]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2050</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Extol Hit Hard with New Single “The One and the Many”</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/extol-hit-hard-with-new-single-the-one-and-the-many/</link>
					<comments>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/extol-hit-hard-with-new-single-the-one-and-the-many/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 23 Aug 2026 20:56:08 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Atom Splitter PR]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christer espevoll]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christian metal group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[david husvik]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Extol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fleshkiller]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[karl aksel skjaeringrud]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ole borud]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peter espevoll]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Solid State Records]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the one and the many]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=2046</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Extol are back with “The One and the Many,” the first taste of their upcoming album Aura of Decay, due November 6 through Solid State Records, with publicity handled by Atom Splitter PR. After more than a decade without a new full length record, the Norwegian metal veterans waste no time reminding listeners what makes them different. “The One and the Many” sucker punches you square in the jaw with shifting rhythms, technical guitar work, aggressive drumming and a structure that refuses to settle into anything predictable. For longtime Extol fans, this is exactly the kind of music we have been waiting to hear. One of my favorite parts of the track is the vocal mixture. Peter Espevoll and Ole Børud bring different textures to the song, and those contrasting voices work extremely well against the constantly moving instrumentation. The musicianship is technical without losing the aggression that made Extol stand out in the first place. The song also rewards repeated listens. Karl Aksel Skjæringrud, a Christian Metal Group moderator from Norway, told me that while he initially wanted a little more guitar or bass in the mix, the song continued to grow on him. He compared some of its musical direction more closely to Fleshkiller than older Extol and praised Ole Børud’s vocals, while saying he would love to hear Peter Espevoll layered over Ole in places for an even heavier effect. “It takes some listening,” Karl said, noting that after several plays he began appreciating the track more, especially when hearing it alongside songs from Undeceived. Lyrically, “The One and the Many” tackles modern tribalism, ideological division and the tension between individual identity and collective thinking. Christer Espevoll has explained that the song reflects a culture where truth can feel increasingly relative while tribal beliefs become stronger. The unsettled subject matter fits the music perfectly, with abrupt transitions and jarring changes reinforcing the tension behind the lyrics. The return of Christer Espevoll alongside Peter Espevoll, Ole Børud and David Husvik makes this new chapter even more exciting. The band has hinted that Aura of Decay will contain elements reminiscent of the darker atmosphere of Burial, while still carrying forward everything Extol has developed musically over the years. If “The One and the Many” is the introduction, Aura of Decay has my attention. My only hope is that this ends up being one of the lighter songs on the album, because if Extol plans to go heavier from here, November cannot get here soon enough.]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2046</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Fear Not Album Release Show Brings Christian Metal Generations Together</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/fear-not-album-release-show-brings-christian-metal-generations-together/</link>
					<comments>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/fear-not-album-release-show-brings-christian-metal-generations-together/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 22 Aug 2026 13:19:08 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[anthony focx]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[applehead]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[barren cross]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[benny ramos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bryan kemper]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christian metal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cj grimmark]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[david roberts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[delieverance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[devin williams]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FEAR NOT]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[guardian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hop springs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jaymi millard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jim chaffin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[luke easter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[michael feighan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Motivik]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[murfressboro tn]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[narnia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pinkbassman]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rex carroll]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rob rock]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rock for Life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[roger dale martin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rusty shipp]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tennessee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tourniquet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vengeance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[WHITECROSS]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=2031</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[August 15, 2026 &#124; Hop Springs, Murfreesboro, Tennessee Fear Not’s album release concert at Hop Springs was much more than a four-band show. With Devin Williams, Applehead, Whitecross, and Fear Not on the bill, plus an incredible number of Christian rock and metal musicians in attendance, it became a gathering of several generations of the scene. I drove up from South Carolina with my 10-year-old son, Leo, and was honored to help promote the show and set up a Christian Metal Group banner beside the Rock for Life table. Getting there early gave me time to catch up with friends from several states and finally meet others I had previously only known through social media, podcasts, or the music community. The audience included people connected to bands such as Narnia, Rob Rock, Deliverance, Recon, Guardian, Barren Cross, Tourniquet, Vengeance, Motivik, Rusty Shipp, and many others. It was one of those nights when you could look around the room and see Christian metal history everywhere. Fear Not started things early with a special five-song acoustic performance for meet and greet ticket holders. The intimate set was a great contrast to what was coming later. The band also announced that they had received two Josie Music Award nominations and revealed that a special edition of their new release will be available exclusively at Immortal Fest 2026. Devin Williams opened the main show with a strong dose of straightforward rock and roll before Applehead delivered one of the biggest surprises of the night. Applehead was a real treat, and you could tell many musicians in attendance were especially interested in seeing them. The live lineup included Jaymi “Pinkbassman” Millard on bass and Jim Chaffin on drums. Then Luke Easter joined the band to sing The Crucified’s “Your Image,” with Bryan Kemper on background vocals. For fans of The Crucified, it was about as close as you are likely to get to hearing the band represented live today. As if that was not enough, with former Vengeance bassist Roger Dale Martin in attendance, Easter ended things with an impromptu performance of Vengeance Rising’s “White Throne.” It was one of those completely unexpected moments that made the night special. Whitecross followed and absolutely slayed their set. Of course, no Whitecross show would be complete without a Rex Carroll guitar solo. The current lineup continues to prove that Whitecross is not simply living off its history. Michael Feighan and Benny Ramos remain an impressive rhythm section, while David Roberts has proven to be an excellent fit on lead vocals. The crowd also received two special guitar appearances. Anthony Focx, who co-wrote “Who Will You Follow?”, joined the band for the song, while CJ Grimmark of Narnia and Rob Rock also came out to play with Whitecross. Before Fear Not took the stage, Bryan Kemper of Rock for Life gave a passionate message about the value of human life and the importance of standing up for those who cannot speak for themselves. His statement that being pro-life is a verb, not a noun, summed up his challenge to the audience. Then it was time for Fear Not. This was my fifth time seeing the band, and they continue to deliver excellent hard rock while remaining completely unashamed about sharing King Jesus. The set mixed newer material such as “Blind Leading the Blind” with older favorites including “Fields of Sorrow” and the crowd favorite “Voluntary Madness.” Their version of Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s “Blue on Black” was another highlight. One of the most personal moments came before “It Was You, It Was Me,” when Eddie Green became emotional while explaining the meaning behind the song and how difficult it was to write. Fear Not closed with “We Have a God,” the song that put the band on the map, and it could not have been a better ending. The performances were great, but what made this a night to remember was seeing so many people connected to Christian rock and metal together in one place. Musicians, fans, friends, and several generations of the scene came together to celebrate the music, the relationships, and the faith behind it. Getting to experience it with my son made the night even better.]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2031</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>XIII Minutes: Seeing Is Deceiving</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/xiii-minutes-seeing-is-deceiving/</link>
					<comments>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/xiii-minutes-seeing-is-deceiving/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2026 20:43:29 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[i am the pendragon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jamie kucinski]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jerrod cunningham]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[john watson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nrt music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[seeing is deceiving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[XIII Minutes]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=2028</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[XIII Minutes continues to show just how much sound three musicians can create. Their new single, “Seeing Is Deceiving,” is heavy, powerful, and carries a message that deserves attention. I also love the artwork. The image immediately makes you stop and think, which is exactly what good art should do. It fits perfectly with a song dealing with the lasting mental, emotional, and spiritual wounds caused by childhood mistreatment. According to drummer Jamie Kucinski, the song is written as a conversation between a wounded child and Christ. The child struggles with trusting Christ’s invitation in Matthew 11:28 to come to Him for rest. The message also draws from Christ’s warning in Matthew 18:5 through 6 and Luke 17:2 about causing children to stumble. It is a difficult subject, but the song ultimately points toward healing and restoration through Jesus. Musically, XIII Minutes delivers again. Jerrod Cunningham, also vocalist for I Am the Pendragon, brings strength and emotion that fit the song perfectly. Jamie Kucinski’s drumming fills the track and keeps everything moving with force, while John Watson’s guitar work is phenomenal. Together, the three create a cohesive and incredibly heavy sound. The breakdowns add even more impact and give the song some of its strongest moments. “Seeing Is Deceiving” hits you square in the kidney. XIII Minutes is making music with purpose, and this latest single makes it clear that they are not slowing down anytime soon. “Seeing Is Deceiving” releases August 27, 2026 through NRT Music.]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2028</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Skillet Rises Above With Hard Hitting New Single “Lift Me Up”</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/skillet-rises-above-with-hard-hitting-new-single-lift-me-up/</link>
					<comments>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/skillet-rises-above-with-hard-hitting-new-single-lift-me-up/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Aug 2026 20:58:18 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[after the storm]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[david cowell]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[greammatrain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hard rock]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[John Cooper]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[korey cooper]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life me up]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Seth Morrison]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Skillet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skillet band]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skillet music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Spotify]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the physician]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[westminister effects]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=2022</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Skillet has never been afraid to change. Over nearly three decades, the band has gone through numerous musical shifts while continuing to build one of the largest audiences in Christian rock. With their new single, “Lift Me Up,” Skillet turns the heaviness back up while delivering the hard hitting and encouraging message of hope that has connected with listeners throughout their career. “Lift Me Up” is the second single from Skillet’s upcoming six song EP, After the Storm, scheduled for release October 9. The song follows “Scream” and gives fans another taste of the harder sound the band is embracing with this new project. At the time of this review, “Lift Me Up” has already surpassed 300,000 streams on Spotify, showing that fans are responding quickly to the new song. For me, hearing Skillet move in this direction is especially exciting because my history with the band goes all the way back to the beginning. I saw them on tour for their self titled first album with Grammatrain. At the time, Skillet was a fantastic three piece grunge rock band, and I still love that first album. Needless to say, a lot has changed since then. Skillet has explored many sounds and gone through plenty of musical changes over the years. They have come a long way from that first record, but that evolution is part of what has kept the band interesting. I am glad to hear some extra weight returning to the guitars on this new material without the band simply trying to recreate its past. “Lift Me Up” hits hard from the start. The guitars have a thick, aggressive sound, and the drums immediately caught my attention. John Cooper’s voice fits the song perfectly, with a grit and intensity that works extremely well with both the music and the emotion behind the lyrics. The message is unmistakably Skillet. The lyrics deal with being pulled down by fear, sorrow, shame, and struggles from the past while refusing to surrender to them. One line captures the attitude of the song perfectly: “Not gonna die tonight, I’m gonna rise above it.” It is hard hitting, but it is also encouraging. That combination has always been one of Skillet’s strengths. Their songs can acknowledge darkness while still giving the listener hope. “Lift Me Up” recognizes that pain, fear, and overwhelming circumstances are real, but refuses to allow them to have the final word. That message carries even more weight knowing where John Cooper was coming from when he wrote the song. Cooper has said that many things in his life were dragging him down at the time and that he was asking God to lift him up. After the Storm was inspired by seasons of betrayal, grief, perseverance, and ultimately hope. That gives “Lift Me Up” a genuine foundation. It is not simply about finding enough strength within yourself to keep going. It comes from a place of looking to God for the strength to rise above what is pulling you down. Another standout is Seth Morrison’s guitar tone. Morrison is using his personalized 2716 Seth Morrison Signature Distortion from Westminster Effects, a pedal developed specifically with him. The 2716 replicates his main live tone, and it brings a powerful, defined guitar sound that works extremely well on a song this heavy. Morrison also uses Westminster’s The Physician for his lead parts as the company continues working with him on expanding his rig. Jen Ledger’s drums are another highlight. Her playing gives the track tremendous power and helps drive the song without overcrowding everything happening around it. Producer David Cowell, known for his work with Sleep Theory, worked alongside Korey Cooper on After the Storm. The production gives the guitars and drums plenty of room to hit while still retaining the massive chorus and polished sound listeners expect from Skillet. John Cooper has said “Lift Me Up” reminds him of early Skillet while still feeling fresh, and I think that is an important distinction. As someone who was there during that early era and still loves that first record, I do not need Skillet to become the three piece grunge band I saw all those years ago. I want them to continue moving forward and making the music that represents where they are today. But I am definitely glad to hear those guitars getting heavier again. “Lift Me Up” brings together a powerful sound, a strong vocal performance from John Cooper, standout drums, a massive guitar tone from Seth Morrison, and lyrics that offer encouragement when life starts pulling you down. If “Scream” and “Lift Me Up” are an indication of where After the Storm is headed, I am looking forward to hearing a lot more of this.]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2022</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Breaking Darkness Music Festival 2026 Continues to Shine as One of the Southeast&#8217;s Best Christian Heavy Music Festivals</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/breaking-darkness-music-festival-2026-continues-to-shine-as-one-of-the-southeasts-best-christian-heavy-music-festivals/</link>
					<comments>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/breaking-darkness-music-festival-2026-continues-to-shine-as-one-of-the-southeasts-best-christian-heavy-music-festivals/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 02:19:34 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Autumn Eve]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Billy James]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Breaking Darkness Music Festival]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cody fields]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Convictions]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[cult leader]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Glenn Remsen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hickory nc]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[igniting the sky]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Irae]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jesus is king]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[josh lowe]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[XIII Minutes]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=1975</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[HICKORY, N.C. — For the second straight year, I had the privilege of attending and helping behind the scenes at Breaking Darkness Music Festival, and once again it proved why this has become one of my favorite events of the year. Hosted at The Hickory Premier, the festival is much more than a concert. It is a place where heavy music fans gather to worship, encourage one another, and build lasting friendships centered on Christ. Founded and organized by Seth Olsen of Counter, Breaking Darkness exists to promote unity, fellowship, hope, and redemption while raising support for Christian outreach and addiction recovery organizations. Every ticket sold helps fund ministries making a real difference in people&#8217;s lives. This year, Glenn Remsen served as the festival&#8217;s emcee, keeping the day moving with enthusiasm while engaging the crowd between performances. My sons, Leo and Max, joined me again this year, making it another memorable family experience. We arrived early Saturday morning to help unload equipment, assist bands with load-in, and prepare the venue before the doors opened. It turned into a long day, but one filled with great music, amazing people, and plenty of unforgettable moments. This year also marked an exciting partnership between SoundLink Magazine and Breaking Darkness. Our team was on site throughout the day, with Josh Lowe and Trenton Worsham filming performances and capturing behind-the-scenes moments. SoundLink also partnered with the festival and Cody Fields of Westminster Effects, who also plays in Igniting the Sky, to create one of the coolest raffles I have ever seen. The grand prize featured a custom skateboard displaying the official Breaking Darkness artwork, signed by every band on the lineup, along with a custom Westminster Effects guitar pedal engraved with the words &#8220;Jesus Is King.&#8221; It was a perfect representation of what this festival is all about. Between sets, fans had plenty to enjoy beyond the music. This year&#8217;s food trucks served fresh pizza, loaded fries, chicken wings, and coffee throughout the day. Combined with vendors, giveaways, and conversations happening all over the venue, there was never a dull moment. Opening the festival was North Carolina pop-punk band Splitcast, who proved to be the perfect choice to kick off the day. Their energetic set immediately got the crowd moving and set the tone for everything that followed. It was great seeing them back after several years of inactivity. Their bassist made the trip from France to reunite with the band for the festival, making the performance even more special. One of my favorite performances came from Autumn Eve. Her energetic stage presence and genuine love for her fans are impossible to miss. Beyond delivering a fantastic rock performance, she continues to advocate for emotional health through songs like &#8220;You Matter,&#8221; a message that undoubtedly resonates with many listeners. Festival moments like this often produce unexpected surprises, and one of the highlights was seeing Jermaine and Matt Sassano join her on stage for a song that had the audience cheering. Returning to Breaking Darkness, Counter once again brought one of the most entertaining sets of the day. Their self-described &#8220;sugarcore&#8221; sound combines catchy pop vocal hooks with crushing metalcore guitars, creating one of the most unique sounds on the bill. Their performance was simply fun from start to finish, and the crowd fed off every minute of it. Billy James was an outstanding addition to this year&#8217;s lineup. The local rapper completely changed the atmosphere in the best way possible. Rather than performing over backing tracks, he brought a full live band featuring keyboards, drums, two guitarists, bass, and a hype man. His incredible talent quickly won over a crowd made up largely of rock and metal fans. Whether delivering rapid-fire bars or leading worship, Billy proved that praising King Jesus transcends musical genres. Matt Sassano brought a real authenticity to the stage with his Linkin Park influenced rock sound. He delivered an excellent cover of Linkin Park’s “In the End,” while songs like “Dear God” and the new fan favorite “Fuel” were among the highlights of his set. Wearing his custom Him Not My Name jacket, Sassano closed with the powerful song of the same name. I was honored to film his entire performance for a future live release. The biggest surprise of the festival for me was Irae. Their brand of worshipful hardcore, often referred to as Christcore, created one of the day&#8217;s most memorable moments. Before taking the stage, a worship song filled the venue while vocalist Kashif knelt in prayer behind the stage. When the band exploded into their opening song, the energy shifted instantly. Kashif wasted no time pulling the crowd closer, encouraging movement, and creating the first mosh pit of the day. Their passion for Christ matched the intensity of their music, making them a band everyone should keep an eye on. One of my favorite memories happened during Irae&#8217;s set as my son Leo and Jermaine&#8217;s son Keighan ran through the pit together. Returning after last year&#8217;s festival, Tricord once again delivered an outstanding performance. Their musicianship is exceptional, but what continues to impress me most is who they are off the stage. Throughout the day they could be found talking with fans, supporting every other band, and simply enjoying the festival alongside everyone else. During their set, vocalist Jermaine proudly wore his homemade jacket with &#8220;Born to Be a King&#8221; across the back, a tribute to one of the band&#8217;s fan-favorite songs. It&#8217;s little details like that, along with the band&#8217;s genuine love for people, that make Tricord a favorite every time they take the stage. XIII Minutes continued the momentum with their signature hard rock sound. Their performance was every bit as tight as expected, showcasing just how talented each member is as a musician. We also enjoyed spending time with the band throughout the day, making the performance feel even more personal. A standout moment came when Matt Sassano joined them on stage to perform one of their biggest songs, &#8220;Cult Leader,&#8221; drawing another]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1975</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Resurrection Fest Makes Its South Carolina Debut This August</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/resurrection-fest-makes-its-south-carolina-debut-this-august/</link>
					<comments>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/resurrection-fest-makes-its-south-carolina-debut-this-august/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:44:25 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brent tatum]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christian rock]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[greer sc]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[igniting the sky]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[resurrection church]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[resurrection fest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[resurrection records]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Carolina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tricord]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ziggie and the suffering gift]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=1989</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Resurrection Fest Makes Its South Carolina Debut This August A new chapter for Christian heavy music is about to begin in the Upstate. Resurrection Fest will make its South Carolina debut on Friday, August 29, bringing together four Christian rock and metal artists for an evening of powerful music, worship, and hope at Resurrection Church in Greer. Presented by Resurrection Records, the inaugural event showcases a lineup that reflects the diversity of today&#8217;s Christian rock and metal scene while sharing one common purpose: pointing people to Jesus Christ through music. Headlining the night is Tricord, the South Georgia alternative nu-metal and rapcore band known for combining heavy riffs with transparent lyrics about addiction, anxiety, depression, and finding hope in Christ. Their music is both aggressive and deeply personal, connecting with listeners who have faced life&#8217;s darkest moments while reminding them they are never alone. Joining them is Brent Tatum, a singer, songwriter, and worship leader from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Blending contemporary Christian music with rock, Tatum&#8217;s songs focus on faith, hope, and pursuing God&#8217;s calling, offering a worshipful and encouraging contrast to the heavier acts on the bill. Charleston-based Ziggie and the Suffering Gift delivers heartfelt rock born from real-life struggles and redemption. Formed by lifelong friends who have endured life&#8217;s trials together, the band writes music intended to inspire, uplift, and remind people that healing and hope are always within reach. Representing the Upstate is Igniting the Sky, Greenville&#8217;s own post-hardcore powerhouse. Known for explosive live performances, the band balances crushing breakdowns with soaring melodies and brutally honest lyrics that challenge, encourage, and point listeners toward Christ. As the first Resurrection Fest in South Carolina, organizers hope the event becomes more than just another concert. The vision is to create a place where music, ministry, and community come together, giving fans an opportunity to discover new artists, encourage one another, and celebrate their faith through powerful live performances. With tickets priced at just $10 at the door, Resurrection Fest is an affordable opportunity for longtime fans of Christian rock and metal as well as anyone looking to experience a night of music with a message of hope. Event Information Resurrection FestFriday, August 29, 2026 Doors: 6:30 PMShow: 7:00 PM Resurrection Church900 N. Main St.Greer, SC Admission: $10 at the door Learn More Discover more about the artists on the Resurrection Records roster:https://resurrectionrecordsofficial.com/artists Listen to Igniting the Sky&#8217;s latest single, &#8220;There Are Four Lights,&#8221; here:https://ignitingthesky.bandcamp.com/track/there-are-four-lights]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1989</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Fear Not Returns to Tennessee with Whitecross, Applehead, and Devin Williams on August 15</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/fear-not-returns-to-tennessee-with-whitecross-applehead-and-devin-williams-on-august-15/</link>
					<comments>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/fear-not-returns-to-tennessee-with-whitecross-applehead-and-devin-williams-on-august-15/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:27:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[applehead]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[devin williams]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FEAR NOT]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[greg minier]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hop springs beer park]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[john and dino elefante]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[murfreesboro tn]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rex carroll]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tennessee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Crucified]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[WHITECROSS]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=1986</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Fans of Christian rock and metal have a rare opportunity this month as Fear Not headlines a special night of music at Hop Springs Beer Park in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on Friday, August 15. Presented by Anchor Events and Hop Springs, the concert also features legendary Christian metal band Whitecross, along with Applehead and Devin Williams. Fear Not first emerged in the early 1990s with the support of acclaimed producers John and Dino Elefante, releasing their self-titled debut on Pakaderm Records. Over the years, the band has built a loyal following through powerful songwriting, memorable performances, and lyrics centered on hope, perseverance, and faith. More than three decades later, Fear Not continues to write, record, and perform, proving their music still resonates with longtime fans and new listeners alike. Also appearing is Whitecross, one of the most influential Christian metal bands of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Formed in Illinois in 1985 by guitarist Rex Carroll, Whitecross earned three Dove Awards and became known for Carroll&#8217;s blazing guitar work and songs like In the Kingdom, No Second Chances, and We Know What&#8217;s Right. The band remains a favorite among classic Christian metal fans and continues to deliver the signature musicianship that made them legends. Applehead, the long-running project of guitarist Greg Minier, brings another legendary name to the lineup. Best known for his work with thrash pioneers The Crucified, Minier originally launched Applehead in 1992 before returning with new music in recent years. The project blends groove metal, classic heavy metal, and thoughtful lyrics into a fresh modern sound while honoring its roots. Rounding out the bill is Devin Williams, a Billboard-charting Christian rock artist and worship pastor whose music combines melodic rock with messages of faith, hope, and perseverance. Williams has shared stages with artists including Fireflight while continuing to encourage audiences through both his music and personal testimony. Fans looking for an enhanced experience can purchase a $55 Early Entry Meet &#38; Greet ticket, which includes early admission and a special performance. General admission tickets are $25. With four artists representing different eras and styles of Christian rock and metal, this promises to be a memorable evening for fans of faith-based rock, from classic metal to modern worship-infused rock. Event Details Date: Friday, August 15Venue: Hop Springs Beer ParkAddress: 6790 John Bragg Hwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37127 Featuring: Tickets: https://anchormerchandising.com/store/fearnotconcert7/]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1986</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Islander Brings Controlled Chaos to Radio Room</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/islander-brings-controlled-chaos-to-radio-room/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:15:07 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chris carvajal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chrrry vanilla]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coconut dracula]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dead youth]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grave hunter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greenville SC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[heart support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Islander]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mikey carvajal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[soundlink tv]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Radio Room]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wiltwither]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=1977</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[There is something special about watching a hometown crowd rally around a band they love, and that&#8217;s exactly what happened when Islander headlined Radio Room in Greenville on August 2. While the venue wasn&#8217;t packed when doors opened, fans steadily filled the room throughout the evening, creating an atmosphere that grew louder and more energetic with every set. Opening the night was Grave Hunter, a hardcore band making their first appearance at Radio Room. The band mentioned it was their first time playing the Greenville venue, and they made the most of the opportunity with an energetic set that got the early crowd moving and set the tone for the night. Next up was Chrrry Vanilla, delivering a fast-paced hardcore punk performance. Before taking the stage, they shared that this would be their final show in South Carolina, giving local fans one last chance to catch them live in the state. Greenville&#8217;s own Wiltwither followed with a crushing metalcore set. As the hometown band on the bill, they had plenty of supporters in attendance, and the crowd responded enthusiastically throughout their performance. It&#8217;s always encouraging to see local bands receive that kind of support from their community. One of my favorite sights of the evening was seeing members of HeartSupport in attendance, connecting with fans and continuing their mission of bringing hope and mental health awareness to the heavy music community. If you&#8217;re unfamiliar with their work, I encourage you to check them out at https://www.heartsupport.com/. Organizations like HeartSupport have become an important part of the heavy music scene, reminding everyone that these concerts are about more than just music. By the time Islander took the stage, Radio Room had filled in nicely and the anticipation was obvious. Frontman Mikey Carvajal once again wore his signature skull-inspired face paint and immediately had the audience in the palm of his hand. From the opening moments, the energy inside the venue reached another level. The band&#8217;s performance of &#8220;Coconut Dracula&#8221; had nearly everyone singing along, proving once again why it has become one of their signature live songs. When they launched into their newest single, &#8220;Dead Youth,&#8221; the room absolutely erupted. The breakdown hit with incredible force, the pit exploded into motion, and the crowd responded with nonstop energy from start to finish. It was easily one of the highlights of the evening. Perhaps the most memorable moment came between songs when Mikey shared a story about meeting two kids at a local restaurant. They had told him they were attending their very first concert to see a band called Islander, never realizing they were talking to the band&#8217;s vocalist. During the set, Mikey invited both of them onto the stage. Before they jumped, he asked the audience to tighten together so they could safely experience their first stage dive and crowd surf. The crowd embraced the moment, giving the two young fans an unforgettable first concert experience. Moments like that perfectly capture what makes Islander stand apart. The band doesn&#8217;t simply perform for their audience. They create experiences with them. Their genuine care for their fans is evident every time they take the stage, and the fans respond with that same passion. On this night, the Greenville crowd absolutely showed up and showed out. One of the best parts of covering concerts is reconnecting with friends who share the same passion for live music. It was great seeing Joshua Gilmore, Jody Jennings, Isaac Phillips, and Jacob Mullikin. We&#8217;ve experienced many Islander shows together over the years, and nights like this remind me how close-knit the heavy music community really is. I also had the privilege of working with Trenton Worsham and Josh Lowe for SoundLink Magazine to film Islander&#8217;s entire set. Working behind the cameras provided another perspective on just how much energy the band pours into every song. From the first breakdown of the evening to the final crowd surf, this was another memorable night for Greenville&#8217;s heavy music scene. Every band brought something different to the stage, the audience fed off every performance, and Islander once again proved why they remain one of the most exciting live bands in heavy music today. Radio Room continues to be one of the Upstate&#8217;s premier venues for heavy music, and nights like this are exactly why fans keep coming back. Be sure to watch the full performance and our exclusive interview with Islander on SoundLinkTV. For More Information HeartSupporthttps://www.heartsupport.com/ Islanderhttps://www.islanderband.com/ Radio Roomhttps://www.radioroomgreenville.com/]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1977</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Maylene and the Sons of Disaster Bring the Heavy to Greenville, SC</title>
		<link>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/maylene-and-the-sons-of-disaster-bring-the-heavy-to-greenville-sc/</link>
					<comments>https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/maylene-and-the-sons-of-disaster-bring-the-heavy-to-greenville-sc/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jimmy Lamar Sorells]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 21:30:37 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[across five aprils]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[andy williams]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[atomic rule]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dallas Taylor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Doom Metal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[every time I Die]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greenville]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greenville SC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hardcore]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[josh scogin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[maylene and the sons of disaster]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[metalcore]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[new rituals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[radio room]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[reviler]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sludge]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sludge metal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[soundlink magazine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steve taylor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[’68]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.christianmetalgroup.com/?p=1962</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[The Radio Room in Greenville, SC, hosted an incredible night of heavy music as Maylene and the Sons of Disaster kicked off their summer tour alongside Atomic Rule, Across Five Aprils, New Rituals, and local openers Reviler. The crowd grew throughout the night, and by the time Across Five Aprils hit the stage, the room was packed. It was my first time seeing all five bands, and each one brought something different to the lineup. Greenville&#8217;s own Reviler got things started with a solid hometown performance. New Rituals, from Chattanooga, followed with a strong hardcore set. Their vocalist Keller Harbin was formerly in The Chariot, while drummer Drew Miller also plays in Across Five Aprils. Across Five Aprils proved they haven&#8217;t lost a step. Brandon Mullins joked that the band only plays a few shows each year and called their music &#8220;hardcore adjacent,&#8221; but they sounded great. One of the coolest moments of the night came when the band discovered it was a six year old fan&#8217;s birthday. The crowd wished him a happy birthday before helping him experience his first crowd surf in a safe way. The biggest surprise for me was Atomic Rule. Their sludgy, groove-heavy sound immediately got the crowd moving with the first pit and crowd surfers of the night. Featuring former Every Time I Die guitarist Andy Williams and former &#8217;68 drummer Niko Yamada, the band was incredibly tight and definitely earned some new fans. Josh Scogin was watching from side stage to support his former bandmates Keller Harbin and Niko Yamada. Then came Maylene and the Sons of Disaster. Dallas Taylor still brings an unbelievable amount of energy to the stage, and every member of the band looked like they were having the time of their lives. The crowd responded with nonstop singing, pits, and crowd surfing throughout the set. The best moment may have happened after the show. Dallas Taylor stayed to meet fans, take pictures, and spend time with everyone, especially the kids. It&#8217;s always encouraging to see artists invest in the people who support them. Overall, this was an outstanding way to kick off the tour. Great bands, a great crowd, and another reminder of why the heavy music community continues to be one of the best around.]]></description>
		
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1962</post-id>	</item>
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