Tooth and Nail

If you're looking for something a little less ordinary then look no further than Toot and Nail. There are about 37 groups/artists that fall under the umbrella of Tooth and Nail. Many who will be showcased at this years Cornerstone Festival These groups have a wide range of musical flavors from Ska to flat out punk and all ports in between.

The big question is "where's the faith"? Some of the bands are clearer in this respect than others. Like the Supertones for example, their lyrics and stage show are clear and decisive. Others like Havalina, and their latest, "Space Love & Bullfighting" (a sort of rock opera) are not as clear, but very entertaining. So, for the common listener such as myself, it may take more to decipher lyrics and to find the message. What's the point you may ask? Well, the point is that this music isn't for the "common" listener, and knowing that music stimulates minds of all ages. God has given us music as a gift so why not use it in any way possible to plant seeds! Besides that, much of it comes down to taste, and not everyone has a taste for Michael W. Smith or Steven Curtis Chapman.

Below is a synopsis of three (out of many) current releases from Tooth and Nail.

Side Walk Slam - "Give Back"

A punk rock journey into relationships (falling in love, breaking up, and moving on). In the midst of the rapid fire drum beats and grating guitar riffs you'll not only find questions about how to deal with break ups but you'll also find an honorable mention of faith. As is the deal with "All I Have," which is about totally surrendering to Christ. The guys also make a bold statement of faith in the usual liner thank you's.

Dead Poetic - "Four Wall Blackmail"

The Dead Poetic's are hard core to the core ,including the screaming lyrics, which accompany the more melodic vocals. "The Corporate Enthusiast" is a response to the corporate machine that's driven by money and not the art.

Though the hard core rhythms and shouting may drive parents crazy, I've done some reading on their site and their intentions seem to be in the right place. One instance describes being a Christian role model outside the box. It is also mentioned that their desire is to appeal to any and all who like hard core music, and to break Christian stereotypes.

Still Breathing - "September"

More screaming and gritty hard core guitar back up by pulsating drum work. This time the controlled screaming is lead by female vocalist Dacey. Basically the premise is that as long as we're breathing, it's never too late to change and learn to enjoy life for what it is, a blessed gift.

The title "September" was chosen to represent the changes in life after the World Trade Center tragedies. Reflecting on the loss of life and not taking life for granted. The band also went through some line up changes and fell back on their faith in God to get them through it all.

The CD liner notes and lyrics were hard to read due to printing, dark text on a dark background, and smearing. But from what I could read, the members give credit where credit is due... to Christ.

There is so much more to discover at the links provided below. If you're a parent, I encourage you to talk to your kids about their musical taste and offer to investigate these options.