Enjoy the Silence

Most of my closest confidants (mainly my wife) know that my favorite band of all-time is Depeche Mode. Since my earliest days of listening to music, Depeche Mode has been in some form of regular rotation on either the turntable, the tape-deck, the CD player, and now digitally in my itunes library on my computer.

Last week in preparation for services, we normally have some music playing in the background as people are walking into the gymnasium for service. I was standing next to the sound table when I heard the familiar opening of Depeche Mode's song Enjoy the Silence. No, it wasn't their version but one recently recorded by Anberlin (labeled by many a Christian band) and included on their recent release titled "Lost Songs." I must say, it kind of freaked me out - to hear one of my favorite DM songs playing before a church service. And then I thought, hey this is cool. Music can cross many spectrums. After all, as Rick Warren once said, the only difference between Christian Music and Secular Music is the lyrics. Next Sunday I hope to walk into the service and hear Johnny Cash's version of DM's song Personal Jesus. What I hope I don't hear is the latest rendition of Depeche Mode's controversial and yet honest Blasphemous Rumours. That, my friends, would be down right blasphemous.

My Life On Music

In a recent book titled “Love is a Mix-Tape: Life and Loss, One Song at a Time,” author Rob Sheffield speaks about the power of music and the role that it often plays in our lives. That’s what this blog is all about - getting at the heart of a song and showcasing its relevance to life.

As far back as I can remember, I’ve been listening to music. Back in the early days it was Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. Today, my favorite bands are a diverse mix and undoubtedly an eclectic set to say the least. Over time, I’d like to showcase my favorite bands and their songs and tell you why they make my list. While some offer inspiring lyrics and earth shattering vocals, all the songs I will showcase will have one thing in common - they sound great! At least to me.