In an era when music fans seem doubly impressed by artists who actually play their own instruments and write their own songs, Big Tent Revival could easily be lauded as heroes for keeping the tradition of melodic rock alive. By adding to its creative mix two Grammy nominations and a rigorous touring schedule that now averages close to 200 dates per year, the band has earned a reputation as the hardest working outfit in the Christian music industry.
"There's only 24 hours in a day," says lead singer/songwriter Steve Wiggins, "and I want to be serving God for 25."
With a do-it-yourself work ethic like that, it's easy to see why Big Tent Revival's second Ardent/ForeFront album is called Open All Nite. Produced by John Hampton (Gin Blossoms, Audio Adrenaline) at Ardent Studios in Memphis, the record features the good-time driving sound of a Christ-centered band that never stops. Built around strong melodies and classic rock 'n roll instrumentation, Open All Nite has been nourished in every sense by the band's life on the road.
"Having traveled together extensively on the road as a four-piece band, our playing has become fundamentally tighter," says drummer Spence Smith. "The music is more focused and soulful. It has a sharper edge."
"Our goal is to show our audience how they can know Christ," adds Wiggins. "That means we put the message first and then match our music to the passion of Christ's teaching.
" Indeed, the message of hope that runs throughout Open All Nite is bold and clear. Straightforward rock songs like "Famine Or Feast" and "Mend Me" (#1 CHR) focus on the power of prayer while "Here With Me" (#1 CHR) and the jaunty "Long Time Coming" tune in to God's omnipresence in this earthly life. Another standout track, "If Loving God Was A Crime," (the first video from Open All Nite and another #1 CHR hit) passionately addresses the issues that often cause a rift between Christians and the government.
Beyond the sheer artistic merit of Open All Nite, Big Tent Revival has become a dynamic force in areas ranging from the spiritual roots of the mission field to the technological frontiers of the CD-ROM. As a Compassion International band, the guys have visited the Dominican Republic where they sponsor a child in need. Footage from their mission trip along with other interview and video clips will be included on the new release which is the band's second interactive Audio Vision CD.
Big Tent Revival has now recently finished their third album, Amplifier. This album features "What Would Jesus Do?", the title track for the new Various Artists release from Forefront records.
Discography
Go to Big Tent Revival's website
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