From Essential Records January 2007 - 2006 was an exciting year for Essential Recording artist Red. On June 6, they released their debut album, End of Silence, and have been touring non-stop since April. Their first hit single, "Breathe into Me," hit number 1 on both Radio and Records' and CRW's Christian Rock Charts during the month of July. On December 18, "Already Over," the second single from their debut, skyrocketed to the top spot on Radio and Records' Christian Rock chart.

We were a bit shocked when we heard that Essential Records, home of Third Day and Jars of Clay, had signed a hard rock band. Intrigued by the musical comparisons to Linkin Park, Chevelle, and Muse, we decided to include Red as Part 1 of our New Artist Feature. We asked the same questions of two new bands. Come back to InReview to see what other band we sat down with and how they responded.

Red's album End of Silence debuted on June 6th. We sat down with two-fifths of the band in Nashville back in April for a time to get to know them better. Hopefully you will do the same.

GMA 2006
Nashville, TN

Mike Barnes, lead vocals
Jasen Rauch, guitar

If ever there is a literal hall of fame and museum for Christian rock bands similar to the Cleveland structure that recognizes Hendrix and Zeppelin, at least two Essential Records artists are a lock to be inducted.

Say what you will about Third Day's recent pandering to the adult-contemporary crowd, but their legacy is unmistakable. Beginning with a self-titled debut in 1996 that brought us classic songs like "Consuming Fire," "Nothing at All" and "Thief," their catalog boasts many of the genre's best tunes.