Bryan Austin aka Austin Bryant: Press

Austin,
Last evening I heard a vocal musical presentation that could not fail to
> move even a hard heart. Austin, there was a passion in your voice that
> I have never heard you exceed. Match, maybe, but not exceed.
When I listen to you or watch you present a song I see more than someone
simply putting words to music. You bring life to the words. Keep it up.
In Christ,
Mark

RadioIndy.com has named you a Gold Artist


Dear Bryan Austin ,

We screen thousands of songs by indie artists and name the best artists RadioIndy.com Gold Artists. We focus on musicianship, songwriting and recording quality when determining your Gold artist status. Congratulations - You are a Radioindy Gold Artist!



If there is ever anything we can do to improve your experience on RadioIndy.com, please let us know.

Congratulations,

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Co-Founders, RadioIndy.com

MikVacch Enterprises, LLC (Radioindy.com)






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RadioIndy Review of your ""Realizing the Dream"" CD


Bryan Austin’s "Realizing the Dream" is a traditional gospel album from a talented singer with a tremendous amount of faith. Bryan's journey is a passionate one. Austin approaches every song differently and puts everything he has into his performance. He has an impressive vocal range and belts it out with passion, raw emotion, and intimacy to the likes of Aaron Neville and Luther Vandross. Austin bares himself to his audience hoping the audience will, in turn, bear witness to the spiritual presence of the Lord. The arrangements are simple and could all be intimated inside a house of the Lord since Austin treats each track like a soulful gospel hymn. It’s all about good old fashioned praise. The recording quality of “Realizing the Dream” nicely matches the rawness of Austin’s vocal performance and doesn’t rely on any effects to be effective. Highlights include "The Anchor Holds," which gives you a first taste of Austin's talent as a vocalist and really kicks off the journey. "Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus" features some nice harmony and layering in the vocals and plays on a familiar song of patriotism. "Were You There" wraps things up with a nice guitar progression and beautiful female backing vocals. If you enjoy good ol' fashioned, soulful gospel, give “Realizing the Dream” a listen. -William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Bryan Austin's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites



support@radioindy.com • RadioIndy.com

BRYAN AUSTIN
You can dream of many things. You can dream of wealth and material things, but you can also dream of love and peace on earth. Our “master dreamer”, Mr. Bryan Austin, has dreamed up his fifth CD titled Realizing the Dream (Art-Tist Records), and considering that it’s his third inspirational album in a row you can assume that his dreams and aims are more lofty and spiritual than those of only winning in lottery. But I think he’s not against material things, either, especially in terms of selling this new CD. And this album deserves to be heard and purchased.

I talked to Bryan for the first time in 2000 right after the release of his Still Dreaming set, and if you wish to read about his early career and first recordings you can do it here. The nine-track Realizing the Dream was recorded in Bryan’s home city, Kansas City. Bryan: “I have a good friend by the name of Dan Smith, who owns a studio – excellent studio, excellent musician, excellent engineer. As a matter of fact, I recorded my last two albums with him.”

On the mid-tempo opener, Prayer of Realization, Bryan talks his way through a track created by his little cousin, Darryl “DAT” Taylor. “It’s just a prayer. On occasion, Darryl would record music for me and just allow me to write lyrics.” The Anchor Holds is a beautiful melody written and first recorded (in 1995) by Ray Boltz, and on this track the background with a big choir is skilfully built.

Battle Hymn of the Republic needs no introduction. “On my website – www.bryanakaaustin.com – there’s a video performance of the Battle Hymn of the Republic, which Nate Woodward arranged for what was called a Patriotic Sunday. He and I reunited and decided to record it. He’s playing all the instruments and I’m doing all the vocals, lead and background.”

On an old negro spiritual called There Is a Balm in Gilead Bryan is backed up only by a piano player and a choir. “The choir is from St. Paul United Methodist Church, out of Raymore, Missouri. I sing a lot at the church, and the choir collaborated on this. The piano player is Brenda Morris, and she plays for the choir. I wanted to do a cappella version, but when we were rehearsing it I said ‘let’s keep the piano in’.”

Wade in the Water IS pure a cappella. “Wade in the Water is one that is heavily requested, so I just decided to go in and record it. People just rave, when I sing it, and I also encourage people to clap.” Another traditional song that derives from the 19th century, Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus, has only drums behind Bryan’s high tenor. “Dan Smith did the drums, and it’s my own arrangement.”

Lyrics by Bryan and music performed by Darryl “DAT” Taylor, a slow and atmospheric ballad titled Undeserving is set to an old school soul sound, whereas I Believe I Can Fly, one of Bryan’s show-stoppers, is a big ballad, not unlike The Anchor Holds. The final song, another big ballad named Were You There, would be a highlight on any Bryan’s CD, and actually it appeared already on his previous album, Chosen for the Dream. “The problem was that people would want to buy the song, but not being around Christmas time they wouldn’t want to buy a Christmas CD, so I put it on this one.”

On weekends Bryan usually performs in churches and similar venues. “Even my old school is wholesome, so on occasion I will still do an old school set.” Besides the Battle Hymn, you can watch videos of I Believe I Can Fly and Were You There, too, on Bryan’s website. “The Anchor Holds, Wade in the Water, I Believe I Can Fly, Undeserving and Were You There are the crowd favourites. The Anchor Holds and Were You There have them spellbound. Wade and Undeserving make them want to sing along.”

I bet there’s the word ‘dream’ on Bryan’s next CD, too. “I would like to thank all of those, who have supported my music. I hope they will enjoy the new CD, and just continue to share this dream.”

Bryan's music brought forth the touch of the spirit in a way only he can do.
Our service opened with him singing the Lord's Prayer...it created a sacred
holy space to worship that left my arms covered in goose bumps. The Anchor
Holds touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes. The power of the Lord
is present when Bryan opens his mouth to sing!

Cathy

Hey Austin,

Asking me to pick only my top three Austin songs if not fair either.

"Bridge Over Troubled Water"
"The Anchor Holds"
"His Eye Is On The Sparrow"
"The Lords Prayer"
To me these are your songs, you have made them yours.

"Thank You Lord"
Wonderful song, but again it may be your personal testimony that really
makes this so special.

"O Holy Night"
This has been my favorite Christmas song for a long time. And again,
having you perform it with our Christmas Drama is a precious memory for
me.

"Something About That Name"
You do not have this on a CD yet ?
This is what I mean about Hymnal songs, the passion in your voice with
this type of songs makes everyone want to sing with you (even if he
can't sing).

"Wade In The Water"
Love this one !
Like an Arena Anthem for John the Baptist.
Another Hymnal song that you mastered.

Take a chance on something like "How Great Thou Art" I believe it is
right in your power zone.

Dear Austin,

I have heard nothing but praise for your singing on Sunday. I don’t know if you watched the faces of the congregation, but they were filled with inspiration. We enjoyed it immensely, and as I had thought, the music was the “real sermon” on Sunday.

Thanks so much for your gift of music, God bless,

Rev. Sally DeMasters

Bryan:
I am proud of you. You have made your dream real for you and so many people that have been touched by your heart, soul and beautiful voice.
I know you will keep up the good work.
All my best.
always.
Bob Corff
www.corffvoice.com

Austin,

Thanks again so much for joining us in worship today at CrossRoads. Your voice is always a welcome addition to our choir, and your solos are looked forward to by the whole congregation. I am so glad you suggested "Thank You Lord" as your offering of music. I believe the text not only complemented our weekly scripture, it also articulated the feelings of many of our members. You have a beautiful way with words and melody. Keep sharing your gift!

Karen

Austin,
You are a blessing to many, beyond your singing too,
thanks for being a friend.

Randy

AUS,

LAST NITE I WAS ABLE TO GIVE A LISTEN TO YOUR LATEST RENDITION, I'M IMPRESSED. YOUR SONGBOOK SHOWS HOW YOUR VOICE AND SINCERITY TO THE WORD HAVE MATURED. SIMPLY PUT, YOUR VOICE IS SEASONED AND RIPE TO WARM THE HEARTS OF ALL WHO LISTEN. WE GREW UP LISTENING TO EACH OTHER,AND I CAN TRULY SAY, YOUR VOICE GETS "GOODER & GOODER" AS EACH DAY PASSES. KEEP IT GOING.

Your web site blew me away! After I read all of it, I thought, "Good heavens, and I asked this man if he sang in St. James Choir!! Why he's sung all over the world." It's a very impressive site, and I certainly will encourage those whom I meet to go there and read about you. Especially those who are looking for good, wholesome entertainment.
In Christ,

Joan

Bryan,

Thank you again for being with my church in worship this previous
Sunday.
All accounts were that you were amazing. You are a fantastic musician,

human and Christian. Thank you for sharing your talents with us at St.

Paul's. I look forward to hearing the recording. You have an open
invitation to our church to sing!

Blessings,

Stephen Rew
Music Director
St. Paul's United Methodist Church

Dearest Mr. Austin,

It was, once again, such a privilege to see you on Sunday. Your songs always find a new way to reach me, even the songs I’ve heard before from other performances or your CD. I sensed that other people felt moved as well. I hope that I always manage to find good things in this world that touch me and give me a peaceful reassurance that God is in control. I know your music always will. I look forward to the next opportunity to be blessed by your gracious presence.
May the good Lord bless you and keep you in his tender care.
Sincerely,
Your friend,
Guy Randol

Guy Randol
President
Majestic Enterprises, Inc.

samanpam/Leumas Musical Services wrote:
Bryan:

Great accolades for a much deserving person. Keep-up-the-good work and sing for those who love and appreciate your obvious gift from God...God's gifts for God's grace...

Bryan
I enjoyed visiting with you. Thank You for all you do in serving our Associates & Members.

God gave you a special gift of "finding joy" in everyday.
It is apparent to me that your positive attitude is contagious to all that come in contact with you.

"To take the first step in faith, you don't have to see the whole staircase; just take the first step." --Dr. Martin Luther King
You've taken that first step and beyond and are fulfilling the mission that Christ gave us all...to tell the story of Jesus and His love.

I wish you the best success in all you do.

David BingVice President
Wal-Mart / SAM'S CLUB Fuel

Randall Kelly"

Subject: Sunday on the way home from Bates City I told Austin that him singing "Wade in the Water"

Sunday on the way home from Bates City I told Austin that him singing
"Wade in the Water" before "John the Baptist" has become like "bread
and butter". Seeing Rex backstage getting amped to go and Michael and I
singing along with Austin was one of the coolest experiences I have had
in along time. So I wanted to say thanks to all of you for making this
a
memorable summer, and hopefully we aren't done yet.
We are blessed to have this experience that sticks with us and for each
other to share it with.
So, this morning when a co-worker came in and in a loud voice is
talking with other co-workers "blah, blah, blah" I am in my office
working, I hear him say after five or ten minutes "I guess I better get
to work." and I hear him head out of the office - out of nowhere he
starts singing "Wade in the Water" I almost shouted "Repent". Just the
thought brought a smile to my face and I had to share this with you
all.
So again, thank-you all for this journey, I feel truly blessed to have
been a part of it.

Randy

The Lord's Prayer is one of my favorite songs and Austin you touched our souls with your performance. You know I'm partial but it seems to me you get better each time we hear you. Your voice is awesome and the way you make everyone feel special is such a blessing. The songs you sang today were wonderful. It is inspiring to see how your music ministry compliments the ministry of the SonLight Players. And what a performance both were - WOW.
We are all so looking forward to next week. Being part of your ministry is such a blessing to Concord Baptist Church.
Love and blessings, Roberta

Nate Woodward
Austin's unique vocal talent is only the beginning of what he brings to worship. He connects with his audience in a way that few performers can, all the while directing our attention to the God about which he sings so passionately. His genuine enthusiasm and love is infectious. It has been my great privilege to work with Austin making music. His musical instincts help him excel in bringing new pieces of music to life, and his can-do attitude make rehearsals fun. In short, his talent and personality have opened new windows for the music at our church. We're blessed by his voice and his heart.

Grace and Peace,
Nate

Austin, (ABBA), thank you for asking us to comment on your performance today at Cross Roads Methodist. Elaine and I agree that your performance was a highlight of the worship service. Your interaction with the congregation was a real "high", and your sincerity, and love for Jesus, was a real inspiration. We hope that you will continue to bless us with your presence in the future. carl and elaine

Bryan,
From my viewpoint in the choir, you sounded wonderful. God has given you a gift and it is absolutely great that you share it with us at CrossRoads.
R.D.

I was on the road the other day and got the chance to listen to your entire cd in one sitting. What a great sound! I recall a few comparisons on your bio... I've got to say that your voice and musicality are unique, but as I listened, the two names that popped into my head were Smokey Robinson and Aaron Neville. Although I think you are a warmer singer that Neville.

I wish our sound system could've been better for you. We're in the slow process of upgrading and, right now, our older parts aren't matching up the best with the new stuff. We really need new speakers and a tighter amp system.

People were still talking about you Sunday. Your style is so different from what the good folks at little old Hville UMC are used to. The response was good. They wanted more. I hope we can find time to have you back and give them more.

I want to set up a concert setting in our christian life center that has our praise band open for you. Promote the concert and see what happens.

What sort of fees and requirements do you have?

I feel it's a real gift to have a musician of your stature and ability touch our lives.

Blessings,

Kip Mathew

"I get by with a little help from my friends."

Bro. Austin,
I enjoy so much hearing all of what is going on with you. I appreciate your keeping me in touch with all you're doing. I am so proud of you for what you've accomplished and how God is using you. Continue to make us proud and keep moving on ahead with God's help. God bless you and keep you always.
Rev. Amos

I am so proud of you. Your musical talent was Godsent
and you are using your talent to promote his works.

May God Bless You.

Bobbie

"Earl W. Grimes Jr."
AND THE CAREER MOVES ON! The good Lord is blessing you and it warms my heart. I know that you deserve sucess and will get it soon. Be blessed and bless your family. (They must be very happy!). When you get rich, will you take your brother back to Thailand (smile). Love and peace, Earl G.

Austin,



Congratulations on your ever expanding ministry! God bless.


Blessings,



Lia

Lia M. McIntosh

Minister of the Gospel~writer~speaker~Christian coach

Bryan - I've heard wonderful things about your singing at Indian Heights - thank you so much for sharing your beautiful voice!
Heather Lewis
Director of Music
Indian Heights UMC

Bryan, we played your CDs at a recent church event (UMM Steak Supper)
everybody enjoyed them. Thank you for the CDS I have been enjoying them. We greatly
enjoyed the performance. James

I watched the Lonesome Valley Video and as always, you were inspirational. God uses you to minister to the lost, the lonely, and the forgotten. Praise God that you are willing to heed his calling! May God continually bless you for your dedication! Have a blessed day!!

Kathy Mahoney

"THANKFUL FOR THE DREAM" & "CHOSEN FOR THE DREAM" ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT:

A very moving and memorable religious experience at my church occured
this last Maundy Thursday. The Sonlight Players (The drama team from
our church and several surrounding churches) presented the Holy Week
events From The Last Supper to the Crucifixion and Resurrection of
Christ. Bryan Austin sang "Were You There When They Crucified My
Lord?" It was one of the most
impacting experiences I have had. There was not a dry eye from anyone
in attendance.. .including the actors.

Subject: Pure Joy
To: "Austin Bryant"
When I visited your website, I came away feeling pure joy.
You give a first visual impression of Barry White and sing like the 5th Dimension.
It's all good.
Peter Smothers' words dig deep when you feel his passion for the Almighty.

Peace,

Reggie

Excellent website, Minister Austin!

I LOVE this site and the way you have with people.

You have definitely been a Blessing in my life since I met you a month ago.

Very Sincerely,

Dr. Cheryl Fields

Austin,

My review:

I stood to the side of the sanctuary as the congregation listened to Austin's voice lift up the joy of Christ. I realized how blessed we were at that moment and how blessed we are to be people of faith. Tears of joy welled up within in me knowing that my small congregation was experiencing God’s presence brought near by Austin's spiritual gifts and his willingness to bless us with them. Austin is blessed. We are blessed. I am blessed to be able to say he's a friend. Thank you Austin. More importantly, thank you, Lord.

You are blessed that you may be a blessing!

Rick Matson
Pastor, Smith Chapel United Methodist Church
(573) 529-1210

Thanks again for a powerful weekend! My children were even singing the
rest
of the day. Kate, my 8-year old, said..."mom..that man, Mr. Austin, is
a
great, great singer! Can I listen to his cd?" If you touched anybody,
Austin, you certainly touched an 8-year old girl. She was mesmerized,
and
carried a song in her heart for the rest of the day.

Cathy
Awareness Management Systems
An authorized franchise of the Sandler Sales Institute
Catherine Atkins

“If you think training your people and having them leave is expensive,
try not training them and having them stay."

BRYAN AUSTIN MOVES SPIRITUAL RALLY

About 150 United Methodist Men left the Kansas East Conference United Methodist Men’s Rally, Saturday, August 12 humming and talking about the wonderful musical witness of Bryan Austin. Bryan’s famous rendition of the beautiful hymn, “His Eye is on the Sparrow” left them breathless and then all were equally moved by “The Old Rugged Cross” sung as only Bryan can during communion. His warm spirit of brotherhood and Christian love for all permeated his performance.

Hi Bryan,

I've been out in the high mountains of Estes Park, Colorado. I heard your phone message but had no cell service on the mountain at Long's Peak. Beautiful time of peace and relaxation.

Tom and I enjoyed listening to your cd's while traveling. We then shared them with family while visiting. We were inspired listening to your music while enjoying God's beautiful artistry.

I came home and viewed your new videos on your website. I will forward them on to my friends and family along with your website info.

Your ministry continues to grow and we all deeply appreciate being able to share with you!

God's richest blessings,
Roseann

Cupples(Elementary) and Sumner(High)...O what a wonder! Keep working on your dreams.You have shown us that its not late, for this is Your time. Keep climbing old friend.

From: Reginald Hicks
Subject: Website


I can remember when Aus and I belted a few tunes in the men's room at Sumner High School(St. Louis). Musically, he's on his way. It took a hundred years, but his voice is as pure as angels in the choir. I'm impressed that "Ole School" is alive and well. It's been said that good music sounds good at any age. No matter what your age, follow the instructions and be amazed at how your homey has matured.
Long live the Gospel, R & B, Rockabilly, Hip Hop, etc-etc and Aus.
Aus, the word is out.
www.bryanakaaustin.com

Peace,

Reggie

You know me. I know you. We know each other. But when we were kids, I didn't know you had all this talent in you. I know it now and hopefully everyone else will too. keep on doing your thing. Eric

Subject: Moments in Time


Good Morning Bryan,
It is true, you do get better with age. I have not seen you perform in awhile, so to have had the opportunity to see you again was a pleasure. Keep doing the things God directs you to do.
Tyrone Cain

Austin,
I listened to your Gospel cut. It was uplifting and very very tight.
Keep moving.
You're blessed. Robert

"Bryan Austin, is one of the most refreshing, soulful gospel singers, I
have had the pleasure of listening to. His version of "His eye is on
the Sparrow", all I can say is WOW. He presents songs, that you have
heard before, in a style that turns the ordinary into, "Ear Candy". It
makes you want to sing along."

A well rounded CD beginning with a prayer from the able Rev. Vernon P Howard to start the album on its way, then Bryan Austin picked it up with some great songs.

His Eyes Are On The Sparrow - Mellow, angelic and realistic.

Thank you Lord - Rhythmic, powerful lyrics and wonderful vocals.

The Lord's Prayer - Always a favorite that Bryan more than hold his own vocally with a together background.

Every song is competitive and especially good for those who wish to meditate with the Maker and comfort their spirits. The Music Is Awesome!

My personal rating from 1-10 is 9.

This CD contains the old favorite gospel songs that have stood the test of time. The older generation will remember them and the new generation will love aquainting themselves to the mellow and refreshing sound of the songs with Bryan Austin's voice and his three plus octave range. This is a sit back, relax and reflect, CD that puts you in touch with your God.

Parting the waters in St. Louis

Spiritual, cultural history through song.

BRYAN AUSTIN

Bryan has a dream. Actually he has so many dreams that you could call him a full-time dreamer in music. How else do you explain that his first album on his own Art-Tist Records was called Still Dreaming, the second one was titled Can’t Stop Dreaming and now this latest one is named Thankful For The Dream?

In reality Bryan with his 3 ½ octave range is a highly competent singer and capable of creating captivating music, which, mind you, can make a listener dream. Thankful For The Dream is Bryan’s first inspirational set – you can purchase it onwww.cdbaby.com/bryanaustin3 - with a choir backing him up on many tracks and with quite skilful programming throughout and even with some real instruments in the mix.

Following the opening sermon by Bryan’s personal pastor, Rev. Vernon P. Howard, there’s a vocally fascinating and truly touching version of His Eye Is On The Sparrow. Thank You, Lord – lyrics by Bryan himself – is a swaying slowie, whereasCenter Of My Joy is a devout, melodic hymn. The Old Rugged Cross and What A Friend We Have In Jesus are in the same bag, while The Lord’s Prayer and Bridge Over Troubled Water lift the intensity still a step higher. Jesus Is The Answer is a like a sophisticated 70s soul ballad.

Bryan’s music is thoroughly soothing and beautiful and ideal to those, who like their gospel slow and intimate; or just wish to enjoy classy singing.

I make no apologies—I’m pretty much ol’ school when it comes to soul, R&B and blues. I grew up in a time singers sounded and acted like singers instead of runway models. True, I listen to my fair share of modern stuff, hip hop, some pop and rock, even a fair share of “alternative” country such as The Court & Spark and Wilco, but when it comes to soul, R&B or blues, make mine ol’ school! Give me some folks who really know how to sing and not just moan through their nasal passages.

For a long time, I thought real soul singing was a lost art, but in recent months, I’ve had a number of very pleasant surprises—most recently in the form of a killer four-song EP by St. Louis native Bryan Austin.

I’ve been familiar with Austin’s work for a number of years now, thanks primarily to some stunning demos that came my way via soul songwriting legend and performer Frank-O Johnson and an album of classic soul covers released by Austin several years ago. Needless to say, I was very impressed. After all, how many singers today have the wherewithal—and talent—to stand up and blow convincingly through an Eddie Kendricks classic without fumbling? Austin can. Like the Motown icon, Austin is blessed with a high, silky smooth voice—maybe not quite as high as Kendricks’ but, in some ways (allow me to be a bit blasphemous here) maybe a bit smoother and, dare I say it, even more natural. Austin is the type of singer who could have stepped in front of a lot of groups back in the day, the Delfonics or Stylistics for instance. But, he’s also got tremendous depth. As sweet as his voice is, he easily wrangles some rock-shattering power out of it without losing one bit of the phenomenal control that puts him among the top ranks of today’s soul singers. Austin embodies the best of what made soul the music of choice in the genre’s golden age of the past, but the good thing is, he’s here today, doing it in fine fashion.

Austin starts off this little teaser of a set with “Inflation Wolf,” a politically, timely piece about a fairy tale monster come alive. It’s the big bad wolf himself in the garb of inflation. Austin has composed a set of clever, biting lyrics:

“The wolf is at my door, huffing and puffing at me/I went to my friends for help/They didn’t have a dime to spare… If I can’t afford to the music/How and the heck am I going to dance?/With that wolf/The inflation wolf is around my door… He’s the meanest critter I’ve ever seen.”

And, if the opening growl of the wolf doesn’t scare you, the groove, which is one of the nastiest funk outings you’ll ever hear, certainly will. Devastating bass and wailing wah-wah guitars with a wicked clavinet and a punchy horn arrangement will get your heart pumping hard. Look for this to be the title track on Austin’s next full length album.

Austin follows up with “Yearnin’,” a tune he says he wrote in the late ’80s. Maybe it’s just a touch of nostalgia, but this one sounds like something the late Rick James would have killed to get on his classic “Street Songs” album. Again, it’s a mean funk groove, this time punctuated by a razor sharp clean rhythm guitar. Austin, of course, sings his tail off, as he always does.

He chooses an Ashford and Simpson classic, “Shoe Shine,” for the next track. A lovely little ballad, it’s a perfect showcase for the singer’s tender side. And, he excels here, giving the old song a fresh, but proper reading. The arrangement is also sweet.

Austin closes the set with another classic, a funky dance reworking of the Eddie Floyd hit, “Knock On Wood,” funking it up for a modern audience but without damaging the integrity the tune. It’s another great vehicle for his talents and, in his hands, is the kind of tune that could turn out the house during a live gig.

Well, the only thing I can do now is sit back and wait for the full-length version of this album, which is certain to be a monster—and hope that ol’ inflation wolf stays at bay so I can afford to pick up a copy and dance to some great singing and music by a true soulster.

New Music News on the Scene

On The Scene is Music from Bryan Austin

A very fine voices that has a range you would not believe the Album just in to The Block Party Can't Stop Dreaming The Best of Bryan Austin and It just doesn't get any better. The CD has so Classic remakes on it but with Bryan's smooth
voice belting out a different silk-like style. My favorite on the CD Shoe - Shoe Shine take me back to a time that now I wish I could go back to after listening to his unmistable style. But like everything you can only go back in your mind.Also the first track ,The INTERVIEW is one that Bryan Show Must
Love to a Good,Good Friend of mine and his and I say that
because in this world you do NOT run in to many True Friends .
And M J Rasool was just that he's gone from us but not forgotten

BRYAN AUSTIN
Can¹t Stop Dreaming
(US Art-Tist un-numbered)

Interview; You Make Me Feel Brand New; Inflation Wolf; Yearnin¹; The Girl¹s Alright With Me; My Love; Knock On Wood (+ reprise); Aria; Shoe Shoe Shine; The Bump; I¹ll Love You Tomorrow


This is sub-titled ŒBest Of...¹, doubtless because it reprises the deftly-arranged, tuneful ballads, ŒMy Love¹ and ŒI¹ll Love You Tomorrow¹, plus the forceful, funky dancer, ŒThe Bump¹ from his ŒStill Dreamin¹¹ set of 2000. Bryan never shies away from covers and he can afford to be confident in their making; his falsetto treatment of the Dynamic Superiors¹ ŒShoe Shoe Shine¹ is taking off on US radio stations and has received commendation from the song¹s composers, Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson. It¹s definitely a personal highlight. The arrangement of the Stylistics¹ ŒYou Make Me Feel Brand New¹, brought very much up-to-date and on which Austin takes on the voices of all group members, is to be particularly commended, especially the thundrous opening, which rather shoots me in the foot for my consistent, negative comments about programming! There¹s a further cover in a reverent take on the Temptations¹ ŒThe Girls Alright With Me¹ and it¹s only with the two cuts of ŒKnock On Wood¹ - one with Oliver Sain on sax - that I think the arranger tries too hard to be different and ultimately creates a mess. The funky, sound-effect packed ŒInflation Wolf¹ is another cut that has found enormous favour with US radio stations and ŒYearnin¹¹ too keeps things hard-hitting. Two less than one-minute tracks also feature here: the opener, ŒInterview¹, introduces Bryan via Nashville¹s WFSK radio but ŒAria¹, an excerpt from a recital at the St. Louis Conservatory for the Arts, seems totally out of place here.

New Reports ... Jan 28, 2005




P S R RADIO NETWORK

Ft. Wayne, IN

Frank-O Soul Show

1. Inflation Wolf Bryan Austin

2. Lollipop Anthony Watson

3. Jealous Friends Tenry Johns

4. Shouldve Been Archie Love

5. Its Just A Party Carl Simms

x. Ladies Night Rick Lawson

x. Shake Steelers

x. 5 Minutes Jody Sticker

x. I Intend To Take P. Scott-Adams

x. Two Strangers Bill Avery

x. Tell Me What You Rue Davis

x. Shake What You O. B. Buchana

x. Slap That Booty Gary Brown

x. If You Cheat On Roy C

x. Girls Got It Going Bob Steele

x. Snap, Crackle Pop Denise LaSalle

x. My Sweet Love Sterling Wms.

“Black Diamonds in the Rough”
Reflections Upon the African Presence in the Bible (ARTICLE# I)
presented by
Rev. Dr. V.P. Howard, Jr., Pastoral Staff
St. James United Methodist Church, K.C. MO
Copyright by RAIZDUP4CHRIST INTERNATIONAL
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Introduction: The Bible as Sprit-Inspired and Man-Handled
We term our focus tonight “Black Diamonds in the Rough”. The phrase for us is a metaphor symbolic of the valuable yet often hard to track African/Black presence within our Holy Writ. The Bible can be rough terrain as we try and navigate toward identification and explication of the themes, writers, sages, prophets, nations and tribes which carry African or Black identity. Though Spirit inspired, our Bible has been man-handled. As responsible and enlightened studiers and dividers of the Word, we cannot ignore that the King James version of the Bible many of us hold so dearly was translated into the English language in England about 500 years ago by 47 European men who were commissioned by King James (head of the British monarchy) to produce a version of the Bible suitable and fitting to the cultural, religious, theological, political and linguistic patterns and concerns of England’s monarchy. As a consequence, the King James translation and translators did not always accommodate or give credit to ancient Africa and her peoples for their unquestionable and authenticated contributions made toward the Bible. Nor did those commissioned take great lengths to expound upon or offer clarity regarding the rich contributions of people of African descent to the advance of Judaism and Christianity. It was not to their interests. In fact, the racist views of even religious leaders helped set the tone for biased and negative interpretations aimed both at discounting or distorting the African presence within salvation history and protecting the European status of social, economic and political dominance manifested through the institution of slavery and the enterprise of colonialism. James W. Peebles writes,

“To this day, this concept of black as evil is a carry-over from the Euro-slave trade, when the institution of slavery derogatized the land of Africa as the “Dark Continent,” and her people as heathens and accursed…Probably the greatest act that crystallized the justification of European slave trading was the Catholic priest Bartholomo de las Cases writing in his encyclical to the papacy that these people
(the Africans) were without souls and suitable for the tortuous work in the Americas.” [1]

These racist views held by de las Cases remain in sectors of American society today even if sub-consciously, and are embedded within the cultural icons and the intellectual traditions of the Western world. A basic illustration of this can be cited in the definitions that now stand behind the colors black and white in our standard dictionaries. Most dictionaries describe the term black as the racial category of persons of African descent. These dictionaries then go on to define black as “sullen,” “evil,” “gloomy,” and so forth, attaching negative connotations. The color white, in contrast, is now a racial category of Caucasians and has come to be associated in the dictionary with “pure,” “honest,” “holy,” etc. These contemporary definitions work to reinforce the historical racist views that were held by de las Cases and other European and colonial-American religious and political leaders who shaped the social genesis of our nation. But equally as important, persons of this ethos also shaped the formational Christian views producing sentiments of moral outcast and social degradation aimed toward Africans and succeeding generations of African-americans. As a result several myths regarding the Bible as it relates to the presence of African’s have been promulgated. They are myths we wish to dispel because they are untruths which threaten the integrity of the Gospel witness and work to counter the eagerness and excitement with which people of African descent approach the biblical text in our contemporary setting as we search to find common ground with the fathers of the faith and as we struggle to find clues to the Bible’s affinity for our personhood.

3 Major Myths to Dispel
We attempt to confront three major myths which have developed as a result of the aforementioned realities touched upon in the introduction.

Myth #1 : That the Bible is void of people and places of African descent and that African culture and people have made no significant contribution or influence in our faith…In truth, the Bible contains numerous references to people, places, nations and themes which highly esteem and recognize Africa and her people, however predominant hermeneutics (interpretive strategies) within mainstream commentaries and publishing houses do not often highlight or recognize them in the grand scheme of the Bible’s witness.

Myth #2: That Africans and their black descendants live under an enduring curse authorized by God in Genesis 9:18-29 where it is written “Let Canaan be cursed.” This text has traditionally been interpreted to mean that people of African descent (Ham’s descendants) are a divinely cursed people and are ordained to a status of servitude and slavery under the oppression of Europeans (wrongly interpreted as Shem’s descendants). However, biblical scholar Cain Hope Felder writes that Shem, Ham and Japeth do not represent three distinct racial types. He calls such a conclusion an “absurdity.”[2] In addition, the Bible does not state that Ham is cursed. Nor does the Bible state the future generations of Ham throughout time are in anyway cursed. To draw such conclusions from a text which clearly does not communicate such and then use those interpretive conclusions to justify the enslavement of a group of people is racist because it denies the personhood of others, and thus is sinful.

Myth # 3: That almost all biblical characters are Caucasian including Noah, Abraham, Moses, the Pharaohs, Mary and Joseph, etc., In truth, the Bible is multi-racial and multi-cultural and usually identifies people based on region or nationality rather than skin color. The Bible is universal and inclusive of individuals and social groups of both modern day Europe and ancient Africa.


Black Diamonds: Places, Regions, Nations, Peoples

The Lightening of the Garden of Edenic-Africa and Its Surrounding Regions
The first two rivers mentioned in Genesis 2:8-14 were in ancient Cush an area later to be termed Ethiopia which literally means “burnt faced people.”[3] These rivers are described in the Bible as surrounding the whole land of Ethiopia. Two other rivers are mentioned including the Hiddekel (Tigris) and the Euphrates, the latter of which runs through current day Iraq a region which is in actuality a part of the African land mass on ancient maps. Biblical scholars such as Felder and other historical/geo-political analysts observe that completion of the Suez Canal in 1869 (see map from our Hour of Power study) introduced a man-made separation between the land mass of Africa and that of the region of Ancient Mesopotamia now known as Iraq. In addition, post World War II language began to describe the separated land as the “middle east” de-emphasizing its original African identity. The canal’s presence created both a social and geographical breech between African and the area we now call the Middle East. The re-naming of this entire region east of the Suez Canal functioned to re-cast the area as non-African and therefore presenting this region which includes Iraq, Jerusalem, the West Bank, Palestine, Jordon, Libya and even Egypt on the west of the Suez Canal, as exclusive of ancient African and Black presence.

Archaeological (study of material artifacts of a time and place in culture) and anthropological (study of the remains of human life and its surroundings) studies confirm that the earliest living humans were in the area of question referenced above about 100,000 years ago which gives scientific evidence corresponding to the Bible’s witness regarding Africa being the cradle of civilization and the cradle of human life. Other findings conclude that the land mass now known to include Ethiopia, Egypt, the Sudan and the region east of the Suez Canal, was the home of people wholly “burnt faced” which thrived thousands of years before the development of the block of nations we now know to be European. These “burnt faced people” birthed a multitude of inventions including astrology, mathematics, architecture, pen, ink and paper just to name a few.

The Person of Jesus: What “Race” Was He?
When exploring this question it should first be noted that the notion of “race” is a socially constructed concept and has no scientific basis whatsoever. By socially constructed, we mean conceptualized within the minds of thinkers rather than proven from scientifically based data. There exist no scientific data proving ontological or qualitative distinctions between human beings based upon their skin color.

To place a color-based (racial) category on a national or cultural group, and then proceed to brand that particular color or race inferior is a sin because it defies the personhood of a people, and it is in contrast to the great commandment delivered by Jesus to love neighbor as self. Some of the most sinful acts in history have included the construction and conceptualization of dehumanizing ideologies and thought patterns that defile the sacredness of select members of God’s human family. Racism is one such ideology.

The notion of “race” as a category of human distinction was created by European colonial powers in order to justify the enslavement of and colonial conquest of darker skinned people in parts of Asia, the Americas and Africa in the 15th and 16th centuries.[4] During the time of Jesus, however, such a construct of race did not exist. Thus, the question is rather difficult to get at. However, it is possible based upon linguistics, geography and scriptural data, to kind of sketch what the savior probably looked life.

And we should pause to say that this subject should be of no importance because He came to save all. Indeed, the saving power was in His blood not in His skin tone. But misrepresentations of the image of Jesus within modern and contemporary societies have functioned to separate Him from select groups of people and harbor Him exclusively for others. Casting Jesus as a blonde-haired, blue-eyed, “white” man rather overtly, and by paradox subliminally, conveys that the Savior prefers whites. To see these images begs the question for “blacks”: why did He come as a white person and not a black one, or yellow one, or red one for that matter? In addition, to hear and see throughout history the constant attachment of negative meaning to the notion of what it means to be black (while all along the white Jesus stands before us) has stood as a stumbling block to many people of African descent as they struggle to embrace Christianity. Fair-minded white evangelicals who have a sincere concern for Christ being fully embraced by all persons should be at the forefront of this issue recognizing that to a large degree it has impeded and still does impede greater black acceptance of Christ. Not to mention, the image of Jesus as described above is historically inaccurate.

In terms of His language, Jesus was fluent and knowledgeable of Hebrew which was also the language used daily by the educated, literate class of Jews. The language He spoke on a daily basis, however, was Aramaic, a language spoken by the common, uneducated peasant and working class sector who lived under Roman occupation but who were not of its culture so did not speak its language. Thus He spoke a common language of the poor, undereducated oppressed class, rather than the language of the pious Jew (Hebrew) or socially dominant Rome/European (Greek).

Felder has offered even more clues to glimpses of what Jesus may have looked like. His argument is based upon geography and associated skin-types or shades, as well as scriptural data. Says Felder,

“The passage (Matthew 2:15 and Hosea 11:1) we find the words, ‘out of Egypt I have called my Son.’ The passage is part of the notorious flight into Egypt which describes Mary and Joseph’s attempt to hide the one that King Herod feared would displace him. Imagine the divine family as Europeans hiding in Africa! This is quite doubtful.”[5]

In addition, it would be disingenuous, I think, to disregard several other plain factors. For instance, the skin tone of those like Jesus who are indigenous to the region in question is brown. This fact was recognized even by the ancient Hebrew who when writing the Bible used the Hebrew word “adamah” wherewith we derive the first man Adam’s name which actually means reddish-brown clay. In addition, there exists hundreds of shrines to the Black Madonna in parts of North Africa, Europe and Russia which include either sculptures, paintings or such depicting Mary and Jesus with wholly African features. All of this and more leads Felder to write:

“The Sweet Little Jesus Boy of the Negro Spiritual was in fact quite black…medieval and Renaissance artists made him suitable for the portrayal of Christianity as a European religion. Ancient darker and clearly more African icons were discarded.”[6]

END


PLEASE LOOK FOR ARTICLE TWO OF “DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH” NEXT WEEK AS WE EXPLORE SEVERAL BIBLICAL REFERENCES, INDIVIDUALS AND SOCIO-CULTURAL REALITIES WHICH GIVE VENT TO THE VALUABLE AND ESTEEMED PRESENCE OF AFRICA AND HER PEOPLES IN THE BIBLE!

TO REQUEST DR. HOWARD TO APPEAR AT YOUR GATHERING OR EVENT YOU MY CONTACT HIM AT THE ST. JAMES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH IN KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI, (816.444.5588) WHERE THE HONORABLE U.S. CONGRESSMAN EMANUEL CLEAVER SERVES AS SENIOR PASTOR. Or you may write to:
raizdup4christ@hotmail.com


Dr. Howard
1 Samuel 2:8
RAIZDUP4CHRIST

[1] The Original African Heritage Study Bible, from the preface, James C. Winston Publishing, Inc., Nashville, 1993

[2] African Heritage Study Bible, Felder states as is plainly seen in the Biblical text of the scriptures referenced that there is no curse of Ham’s descendants, only a curse of his son Canaan. In addition, the notion that Noah and his wife produced three distinct racial types among the boys is biologically untenable. According to Felder, most European scholars agree that Ham was the son who eventually settled in the entire region encompassing the Edenic area of the creation story, but curiously they do not acknowledge that Shem and Japheth share Ham’s biology though they come from the same mother and father.
[3] Introduction to Ancient African Civilizations by John Jackson
[4] Prophesy Deliverance by Cornel West,
[5] The Original African Heritage Study Bible
[6] African Heritage Study Bible

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