Vanguard

"The Altar and the Door," the third studio release from Casting Crowns, is in its first week of sales. The CD peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart - a record for a Christian band without any secular media support.

Lead singer Mark Hall said that part of the inspiration for the content of this CD stemmed from when he read messages that members of his youth group posted on their MySpace profiles. He was disturbed because it did not showcase the personalities that they displayed in church. The other theme of this CD continues their tradition of telling it like it is when it pertains to those of the Christian faith and the everyday struggles of life.

The first three tracks, "What This World Needs," "Every Man" and "Slow Fade," kick-start the rock-infused sound of "The Altar and the Door." "What This World Needs" bluntly calls out the materialistic, selfish, narcissistic culture that has taken over the world.

"Every Man" has a slower feel, but discusses the people that each of us encounter throughout our daily lives and shows that you never know what is going on in a person's life.

"Slow Fade" starts of with a classical vibe with the strong emphasis on the string section, then goes into the rock sound while singing a warning to be careful because innocence slowly fades away as life goes on and how ones choices can affect their future.

Currently No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Christian Songs Chart, standout "East to West" slows down "The Altar and the Door" pace as Casting Crowns sings about God's forgiveness and plans for each person. The title track "The Altar and the Door" is another gem on this CD, both lyrically and musically. It shares a strong message about Christian values.

Members of Casting Crowns include lead singer Hall, Andy Williams, Chris Huffman, Hector Cervnates, Juan DeVevo, Melodee DeVevo and Megan Garrett. More information on the group and its message can be found at http://www.castingcrowns.com.

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