The Warm Up

New Word recording artist Building429 opened up the night with a short set from their EP debut "Glory Defined." Building429 is a young band still cutting their teeth as a band. I was disappointed that there was not much communication from the band outside of the songs. They have a cool name that is taken from Ephesians 4:29, but they didn't even mention that. The title track "Glory Defined" hit number one status quickly on the CRW AC Chart, but live it was lacking the energy that one would expect from such a hit. I would suspect that as a young band with some potential there will be much growth to come. I do hope they can mature as a band because it's rare now days to find an excellent band that is more focused on reaching people than reaching crossover charts.

The Headliners

At the beginning of the night there was a short video of Rick Hiel explaining that he would be missing a few of the tour dates due to a recent surgery. Jason Ingram was filling in on lead vocals for Rick.

The first part of Sonicflood's show was mostly from their last two CD's Resonate and Cry Holy. They started with the title track "Cry Holy," played "Famous One," "Resonate," and a few more.

After their first set, Sonicflood took a short break and author Michael Franzese gave his compelling testimony to a very attentive audience. Franzese was once a member of the Mafia and his testimony was full of action packed stories, but nothing compared to the conversion Franzese experienced as he came to know the Lord. "Blood Covenant" is the title of Franzese's biography. (http://www.michaelfranzese.com)

Following Franzese's testimony Sonicflood returned to the stage to lead worship with full audience participation. Overall the whole night was more like Sunday praise and worship instead of a rock show. The tippiest part of the night was when drummer Brett Vagason played a solo on a rotating stage, backlit with strobes.

I was sorry to hear that Rick was out because I know a little of his medical history; enough to know that he is a fighter and a survivor. Jason Ingram did a great job filling in and the audience was both thrilled and moved by the music.