Tulsa, OK, band Mourning September drew their name in part from the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks. Lead vocalist Tony Chavez explains, “I was going through a rough time personally in September of 2001, and combined with all the events that were going on in the world, it was a pretty hard month. We had to come up with a name for our first show, and we really liked the sound of Mourning September. After that day, the name just stuck.”

Their debut “A Man Can Change His Stars” debuted in early August (2004). Initially I didn’t find the CD all that gripping. I was apprehensive because I thought it was too generic and much like every other rock band surfacing in this new phase of Christian music. However after reading into the lyrics and song meanings I was turned around. Mourning September intelligently tackles topics of every day life, relationships (Closer to Closure), the challenges (The Damage), and even death (Lights and Jewels).

Musically they classify themselves as rock – emo pop, and although it’s not full of hooks it’s always hard driven and authentic. Like their label mates Cool Hand Luke, I found the depth of writing and quality of musicianship to be brilliant.

- Ken W.