Asbury concert to feature alternative Christian artists
The face of Christian music is changing, although some may be reluctant to admit it. For today's God-fearing youth, choir specials are being replaced by rock concerts and piano strains supplanted by drum beats and bass lines that leave some older church goers covering their ears and shaking their heads.
Artists like bass guitarist Matt Bally from the group Superchick want people to know it is all about one thing: the message.
The band's genre is hard to categorize, Bally said, but the words "pop," "punk," "disco" and "alternative" all fit, as well as "Christian." Some of the band's more popular songs include "Stand in the Rain," "Anthem," "Beauty from Pain" and "We Live."
Matt and Superchick will be in concert at Asbury United Methodist Church March 26 at 7 p.m. along with KJ-52, Disciple, Britt Nicole and Starlit Platoon, all artists in the new pop/rock/alternative Christian music movement on their aptly named "Cross the Line Tour." The name of the tour refers to not being afraid to do what God calls you to do, and not worrying about what society wants you to do, Bally said.
"The Bible says to praise God with stringed instruments and crashing cymbals," Bally said.
Bally has no problem with people who enjoy a more traditional church service with an older and more established kind of music, if that is the kind of music that speaks to them.
"We like to encourage people to do whatever God calls them to do," he said.
Superchick has not been without their share of hardships over their choice to play Christian alternative music. And, surprisingly, the opposition has not been from those opposed to God, but from conservative Christians.
"We've had people picket our shows," he said. "Instead of picketing us, why not pray for us?"
Scott Thackerson of Asbury United Methodists booked the artists for the church's upcoming concert. He feels that adults should attend with their kids to share the message even if the style of music is different.
"Even adults (should attend), as they can offer alternative music to their youth if their youth are not listening to Christian music. Youth will love it, so parents could make this a family event," Thackerson said.
Superchick has been touring for seven years (Bally was 17 when the band started) and has put out "three and a half" albums.
"Everyone should come out-we put on a great, high-energy live show," Bally said. "And when people leave, we hope they understand that everyone's an individual and everyone has different paths for life."
Tickets are $18 or $12 for groups of ten or more.
For more information, visit www.asburyumc.ws or call 837-0365.
