Christian rock group to perform this Sunday in Sparta
BY CHRIS MCGURRIN
SPARTA — Band member Art Suriano said he used his personal relationship with God and faith as his main inspiration when writing Always, the debut album of contemporary Christian rock group Circle of Faith.
“He has stuff coming into his head 24-7” said Derek Davadowich, Berklee College of Music graduate and lead guitarist of Circle of Faith.
Perhaps it was the word of God that came into Suriano’s head, because during only a nine day span, he was able to write all eight tracks for his group’s first project.
However, Always isn’t an album just for devout Christian’s, Suriano said. The debut album has influences from pop, rock, blues, soul and country.
Art Suriano, Derek Davodowich, and Taryn Pry are the nucleus of the group, who had all met at musical events at Saint Kateri Parish in Sparta. Circle of Faith will be performing for the first time at Saint Kateri Church this Sunday evening. Their album will be available for sale there.
In addition to feature singer Taryn Pry’s vocal abilities, Circle of Faith’s original sound is accessible to every demographic, which has resulted in fantastic reception from listeners.
“Teens here at the church are raving about the CD, and we have people close to 80 years old raving about the CD,” said Suriano.
While a cohesive album, every song on Always has a unique characteristic, Suriano said.
Suriano’s personal favorite “Water into Wine” is reminiscent of 20’s big band and swing music, he said, while “Praying to Jesus” has a pop-driven sound.
“The young children absolutely love it, they have it memorized” said Pry.
The group’s mission statement is “spreading the word of Jesus through song.” The group provides free admission to their concerts.
A volunteering host church sells the CD in advance, with the profits from the album sales going directly to the parish. The business model attracts churches to hold these free concerts, which allows Circle of Faith to travel from church to church, spreading their music to enthuse fellow followers of God, said Pry.
It is Circle of Faith’s ultimate goal to gain radio airplay, and become recognized as a traveling ministry. These two achievements would help broaden the success of their wish to spread the word of Jesus and inspire listeners, said Suriano.
A handful of contributing artists are present on Always, utilizing the keyboard, drums and violins.
To listen and purchase Always before the show, the album is available for download from iTunes, and more information can be found on Circle of Faith’s website, www.circleoffaithmusic.com.