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Product DescriptionTrademark harmonies and contemporary pop with a fresh twist. Lyrically compelling and insightful.
Song ListIn, Not Of
Can't Live A Day
Always Have, Always Will
I'm Speechless
Details
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Interview![]() ![]() An Interview with Avalon’s Michael Passons Tell us about how the group Avalon first got together. We all moved to Nashville from various parts of the country because of our love of Christian music. In 1995 Sparrow Records helped us get started. Within a year we were doing the Young Messiah tour, going around the nation with all these incredible artists, and our first record wasn’t even out for another year. We had all been in bands before, from Truth to little local bands you’ve never heard of, but Avalon was really the first big break for all of us. What was your vision for the group when you first started? In terms of the sound, I think we really wanted to carve out our own niche and do something different. At the time there really wasn’t any group that had girls and guys singing together. I mean there was Point of Grace and groups like that, be we wanted to fill that void. And of course all of us had a real heart for ministry. Tell me a little about the personality of each of the band members. That seems to be a popular question. Since I’ve been with the rest of the group when we’ve answered this before, I think I can speak for all of us. They call me "Father Avalon" because I was the first one who put the group together and I really act as the spokesperson for the group. Jody is the "puppy" of the group. He always wants everything to be O.K. If anyone doesn’t feel well, he’ll sit at their feet and try to comfort them. Janna is a very constant person, she is always on an even keel. Cherie, she’s the newest member of the group and she is very in tune with the Lord. She really brings everyone accountability. Tell me a little about the new album. Are there any new influences or sounds? Well the big thing is a new producer, Brown Bannister, which I think makes the sound noticeably different. I think we really capitalized on what worked on the last album. But I think this new album has a more modern, more progressive sound. The texture of our voices, we really spent more time on that. What is your favorite song on the album? I really like the last song on the album "First Love." It is a Prodigal son kind of song. Are you going to be touring soon with these new songs? We won’t tour with this record until the fall. We’ll be touring on what we’recalling the A tour. We’ll be getting together with Anointed. There are two distinct aspects of a band’s work; in the studio and on tour. Which do you like better? For the pure artist sake and creativity, I like the studio part of it. But there’s no use in doing any of that unless you go out and share it with people on the road. When you’re on the road, how do you stay focused on God? To be honest it’s a hard way of life to stay focused on anything. You have to have a support group at home, and quiet time is something that will make or break your day. So what’s next for Avalon? We’re really going to tour this album well, maybe do a Christmas album, we’re not sure yet. We’re doing our first video next week for the song "In Not Of." We’ve never done that before, so we’re pretty excited. Then we’re doing a TV special for the PAX Network on Good Friday at 11p.m. We’ll perform some of our older songs plus a few new ones and we might have a special guest. Are you nervous about it? No not really, it’s going to be taped, so if we mess up it will be OK. Then in June we’ll be going to Brazil with Focus on the Family on a missions trip, so we’re looking forward to that too. Copyright© 1999 The Parable Group. All rights reserved. Biography![]() ![]() Creating and releasing a new album is never easy. But it can be downright daunting when it has to follow up, and hopefully even improve on, a Dove Award-nominated, bestselling record. Their newest album, In a Different Light, has quite reputation to live up to after the records set by their last album, A Maze of Grace. "Testify to Love" made Christian music history when it became the longest running number one Christian single of the 1990's. Wynonna then picked it up for the Touched by An Angel soundtrack, and an entire episode of the series was structured around the song. It finished 1998 as the #1 Song of the Year (CRR). A Maze of Grace more than doubled the sales of Avalon's debut and has spent over a year in the top ten on the Christian music sales chart. Avalon gained substantial media exposure in 1998 with three featured appearances on "CNN Headline News" and guest appearances on several television shows nationwide, including "Good Day Atlanta" (Fox Atlanta), "Good Morning Texas" (ABC Dallas), "AM Northwest" (ABC Portland), "PositivelyTexas" (CBS Ft. Worth) and "Good Day Kansas" (ABC Wichita), among others. And Avalon was voted "New Artist of the Year" at the 1998 Dove Awards, an honor previously awarded to BeBe and CeCe Winans, Take 6, 4Him, Point of Grace, Jars of Clay and Jaci Velasquez. The group has six nominations for the 1999 Doves, including Artist of the Year, Group of the Year, Pop/ Contemporary Album of the Year for A Maze of Grace, Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year for "Testify to Love," Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year for "Adonai," and Long Form Video of the Year for "My Utmost for His Highest." Additionally, both "Testify to Love" and "Adonai" received nods for Song of the Year. Along with the attention and accolades, Avalon has experienced first hand the glorious and grueling year spent in the whirlwind of success. Early morning flights, days full of interviews and in-store appearances, evening concerts and meet-n-greets, and mid-night flights to new cities. But what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, right? "A lot of days, running to catch flights, it's easy to feel like,'Okay, why am I doing this again,'"says Janna. "And while this year has been very trying, I am reminded of the answer over and over again." "We've seen God do some amazing things this past year. It has been a tough year and a wonderful year," Jody says of 1998. "We've been exhausted and yet so encouraged by the affirmation we've received. Its great to know that people are hearing the music, and it's making a difference." It has been a year of growth and change. It has been a year of growth and change. From the obvious, the departure of Nikki Hassman and arrival of Cherie Paliotta, the renewed (fresh) vitality and depth of their music, Avalon has managed to sail beyond expectations to become the most exciting vocal group on the Christian music scene today. Refusing to be content with the status quo, which in light of the past year is quite overwhelming, Avalon is making the most of the gifts they've been given. And while the numerical rewards are yet to be seen, the best rewards are already apparent. For those who have ears, let them hear. As Avalon's sound continues to evolve, the harmonies are more layered and multi-dimensional. With high-energy pop songs, beautifully emotive ballads and stirring, crescendoeing anthems, Avalon delivers a vocal punch that entertains, encourages and inspires a multi-faceted audience. Over the years, they have learned what it takes to be a vocal group, undefined by soloists, but distinguished by four equal parts, four individuals with distinctive personalities and distinctive gifts who have melded into one distinctive sound, reverberating one heart and one mind when it comes to the music. As Avalon has grown, they've grown in their desire to sing from their hearts and out of their unique experiences. In A Different Light is an expression of that collective desire. Cherie Paliotta has been a large part of thegrowth they've seen this year, and not just because of the new blood, so to speak. Cherie brings not only stellar vocals, but she also brings an open, vulnerable spirit and a vitality to the group that has helped shape and focus their ministry and their music. "It was a big change for me when I came into Avalon, there were days when I didn't think I could get up there and remember one more lyric. But God came through for me in those moments and gave me the courage to anchor on to him and move forward. And I think that was just the same for the others during the transition. God has really been faithful to all of us to work out the quirks and make this thing work. "On this album, it was important to me to find lyrics that represented that intimacy with the Lord," she continues. "I just wanted to convey that God knows every thought, every problem, every struggle and temptation, and He’s helping us through it." Michael echoes similar aspirations. "On this album, honesty was the big priority, he explains, "just making sure that what we were singing wasn't just a good melody or catchy hook, but it was something that we believed in, something that we felt, something that we've lived through. The words were more important this time around than any other album. We have poured over the words and also written for this one. So I think we see a lot of ourselves in these songs. I know I do. It's very biographical." Janna agrees, adding, "These songs say exactly what I would say if I was a songwriter because I know what that feels like, and I know where that emotion is coming from. Finding songs that convey exactly where I'm at in my life is not always easy." For those who have eyes, let them see In A Different Light picks up where A Maze of Grace left off thematically speaking, having explored the infinite grace God bestows on believers (as much one can explore such a deep, endless ocean on one album) and the ways that grace is ever present. This project expands into various facets of our relationships with Christ. "It hones in more on how we feel as Christians, serving and being a part of this huge God," Jody says, "a God that is overwhelming, and at the same time our closest friend."
In A Different Lightencompasses a lot of things," Jody continues "We are expressing our hearts in a different way on this record than we were on the last; maybe were seeing God in a different light these days. And so beyond the title, the record is kind of symbolic in many areas." Creatively, Avalon has never been more unified in their approach to the music. Every idea and effort made is seemingly synchronized, an indication that, as unbelievable as it sounds, four of one mind can work better than four minds at once. And therefore, musically, this album holds promise of even further defining a group that has seen its share of change. Ever the musician, Michael muses, "Sure, we have a new addition, but we also have a newer sound. Our producer, Brown Bannister, has stretched us to be a little more intricate soundwise. Vocally we sound more like a group. Theres a way to be a group and not sound like four soloists and still keep it very interesting and alive and not plain or predictable. The music is a bit more progressive and a bit more commercial sounding than our last two records, but we want it that way. We want every record to be in a progression, a growing thing. I think weve done that here."
It doesnt matter where we sing, bringing the gospel to people through music is what were about... Janna adds, "Perhaps we probe deeper here, but the message remains the same at its center." For those with heart, let them be heartenedAnd that message has been at the heart of this group since day one, since album one. "It doesnt matter where we sing, bringing the gospel to people through music is what were about, whether were at First Baptist, in Jackson, Mississippi, or doing an interview for CNN," Janna emphasizes. "That is the bottom line of who we are. We are Christians. We bear the name of Jesus Christ and our music needs to reflect that and, more importantly, our lives need to reflect that. "More than anything," Jody adds,"people these days are starving for honesty. Theyre starving for people who will be real with them. I think thats been a large part in what we try to do. Thats what was so amazing about Testify to Love. It connected with so many people in its simplicity and boldness. "Weve always tried to be real with people," Jody continues. "Weve never tried to be stars or to be glamorous. Yeah, we might wear some cool clothes every now and then, but if you sit us down and talk to us, or if were on stage, were going to share our hearts. If were having a bad day, well probably tell you. Hopefully, in doing so, God can use that for his own glory because thats kind of what were called to do." In A Different Light represents a whole new season, spiritually, Cherie says. "As we grow in the Lord, were constantly being molded and shaped by the Word. Were constantly seeing Christ in a different light." And just when you think youve reached the end of His good work in your life, the end of his grace, Jody adds, "God continues to change and make you into more of what He wants you to be. And its always different, its always a surprise and around every corner, there is always grace that astounds." In the wake of that grace, Avalon has a renewed, singular vision. The awards and recognition may continue to roll in on the tide of hard work and creative effort, but if not, the year to come will be embraced all the same, in recognition of the blessings Hes bestowed. It has been a year of illumination, and the future looks brighter than ever. "We all feel very strongly about the things we want to communicate," Jody explains. "We all have the same concerns and the same ideas about ministry. Its an amazing feeling to be able to get up on stage every night with three other people, knowing that were all of one mind and one spirit. We all share a common message, and were confident that if one person gets up and speaks, he or she will say something the rest of us feel is true in our hearts. Thats a blessing only of God. I dont know that a lot of groups in the past have been able to say that." "Even though were all very individually different," says Cherie, "the more time we spend together, personally and professionally, its like, even though were different colored threads, were woven together, as one. Copyright© 1999 The Parable Group. All rights reserved. About The SongsAbout The Songs
Take You at Your Word In Not Of In A Different Light Can't Live a Day Always Have, Always Will If My People Pray I'm Speechless Only for the Weak
Let Your Love Hide My Soul First Love Copyright© 1999 The Parable Group. All rights reserved. LyricsTake You At Your Wordwritten by Paul Self, Grant Cunningham Lately, it seems that the word of man is useless. I'm thankful it's still "in GOD we trust." (Hebrews 13:8) Jody Your word is life, Your word is love, Your word is true Everybody's looking for something to believe in I can take You at Your word Your name is written here on my life in love and kindness Your word is life, Your word is love, Your word is true In Not Ofwritten by Nick Gonzales, Grant Cunningham Our purpose is to shine the light of our Savior to those who don't know him and to never allow that light to be dimmed by the world. If we see the lost through the eyes of Christ, we can love them into His kingdom.
(1 John 4:4-19) Cherie
I hide me far away from trouble Then reading, how my eyes were opened Come take the Light to darker parts Wait a minute We've cursed the darkness far too long In A Different Lightwritten by Matt Huesman, Avalon
As we journey through God's perfect will we can't always see what lies
ahead, but we can hold on to the promise that He holds the treasures for those who obey His call. (Jeremiah 29:11-14) Cherie
Don't cry for me There's a hope beyond what my eyes can see Nothing's gonna keep us here Don't be afraid While we're here the heartache's hard to ignore Though for now we see things dimly Can't Live A Daywritten by Connie Harrington, Joe Beck, Ty Lacy
A day without Jesus Christ is one I would never want to experience. Life is truly worth living because of Him. Janna
I could live life alone I couldn't face my life tomorrow I could travel the world Always Have Always Willwritten by Nick Gonzales, Grant Cunningham, Toby McKeehan
This song describes me perfectly, and I'm very thankful that it perfectly describes God as well. (2 Timothy 2:13) Michael
Part of me is the prodigal I wrestle most days I always have, I always will I was born with a wayward heart I still slip, I still fall I always have, I always will I'm gonna keep trusting You If My People Praywritten by Douglas McKelvey, Matt Huesmann, Kent Hooper
God has promised if we seek Him with whole hearts, we wi11 find Him. My prayer for us as a church, nation and world is that we return to Him while He may be found. Janna
Now is the season for healing If My people pray Now is the day to awaken If My people pray (If My people who are called by My name) Let us not grow weary as we wait for the day I'm Speechlesswritten by Ty Lacy, Joanna Carlson
From the healing of my wounded heart to the restoration of my broken life, I am in such awe of God's tangible existence that He simply leaves me "speechless." (Psalm 116) Cherie
Some can write a sonnet Lord, when I try to speak from my heart I don't know where to start When it comes to You I've tried to write the song 'Cause when I try to speak from my heart I don't know where to start Only For The Weakwritten by Michael Puryear, Scott Krippayne, Doak Sneed
I have found that God loves the apparent inadequates of this world - for it is in them His true power is seen most vividly. (Exodus 4:10-11) Michael
Some say it's rules and regulations But it's not about perfect performance It's only for the weak He welcomes the worn and the weary Seems like each day as a battle The Father always starts Let Your Lovewritten by Jeff Borders, Gayla Borders, Phil Madiera
Where have you been looking for love? It's right before your eyes. (Jude 21, 2 Timothy 2:22) Jody
I can hear You calling I find You waiting So let Your love I have been unchanging Come find me waiting Come and find me waiting Hide My Soulwritten by Chris Eaton, Sheila Walsh
Whether in time of trial or time of peace, it's the only place to hide.
(Psalm 27:5) Jody
Here I am with nothing left to say I will hide my soul in Jesus Now I know there's nothing I can do First Lovewritten by Sam Scott, Henk Pool, Lee Ann Vermeulen
The honesty of these words really drew me in. This song is a challenge to me to pursue God more fervently. (Lamentations 3:40) Michael
I used to be the one Tell me when did I lose my first love? Can I remember how it felt Oh, where did I go? Father take me back Audio-VideoAbout The Band
(Tampa, FL)
Jody was raised singing in his church and as a member of his youth choir. However, it was not until his high school years that he began to take his artistic gift seriously. Musically, his development had been influenced by artists like Anita Baker, Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin. During his college years Jody began singing with a performance group, which soon opened doors allowing him to join Truth. He later worked for Walt Disney Productions in their talent, booking and production department and spent four months traveling the U.S. and Canada as one of Disney's featured soloists. He then returned to Truth where he toured Australia, France, Russia, Romania and the Caribbean. First live performance… In the fourth grade, I performed "The Rainbow Connection." You know, the Kermit the Frog song. The crowd was kind. First aspired to be…An astronaut. I wanted to fly in my own rocket ship to Mars and wear a space suit." Most embarrassing/memorable moment…On the Twila Paris tour, she used to sing the song"Faithful Friend" with a video of Steven Curtis Chapman. One night it broke at the last second and Janna pushed me out on stage to sing it with Twila. I didn't know one word of that song, so I rewrote the whole thing." Most distinctive home town fact… Riverview, Florida was a town built around a river that fed into Tampa Bay. Everything there revolves around water sports." Dream duet... Anita Baker Song I wished I written… As far as royalties go, "I Will Always Love You" would be my pick. As for message, "It Is Well With My Soul." Most influential person… My parents have always been the #1 example of Christ and his love. Hymn most associated with church…"It is Well With My Soul" If I weren't a singer... I love the creative/technical process that goes along with making a record. I'd love to be a producer. Last book read... What's So Amazing About Grace by Phillip Yancey CD currently in player… Faith Evan's Keep the Faith |
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