Last week, BEC Recordings’ artist Kutless introduced “It Is Well,” the follow up to the RIAA Gold selling “Strong Tower” album, as radio listeners and media responded loudly to the album. Driven by the challenge to do something different, Kutless strived for this release to reflect the band’s heart and who God is.
Resonating with fans, the project debuted at No. 42 on the Billboard Top 200 and No. 3 on Billboard Top Christian Albums (in between WOW and Skillet) selling 11,385 units. This debut outsold their 2008 release “To Know That You’re Alive.” “It Is Well” also debuted on the iTunes Top Christian Albums chart at No. 1 and has remained in that position one week later. In addition, “It Is Well” peaked at No. 11 on the Overall Top Albums chart on iTunes.
Radio stations and listeners are being impacted by the first single “What Faith Can Do” on all four formats (AC Monitored and Indicator, CHR, Inspo). The single was once again the No. 1 most added song at the AC Monitored format and had the highest spin increase this week landing at No. 15. At AC Indicator and Inspo, the single jumped up 4 spots to move into the Top 5 and secured a place in the Top 10 at CHR with the most spins.
“Every day at KLOVE, we hear from friends who say that the right song played at the right time, and right now we are hearing that a lot about ‘What Faith Can Do’ from Kutless,” shares Scott Smith (APD/MD KLOVE). “The timeless message of hope is breathing life into our listeners!”
Another radio program director, Greg Cassidy (PD/MD Joy FM St. Louis, MO), shares, “Kutless has quickly become one of our best testing bands…..they write great songs that hit our target demo where they live. ‘Faith’ is no exception….great calls and numbers! With their track record we felt good about adding it a bit early!”
Media also recognized the passion behind this project as the reviews were overwhelmingly positive and uplifting to the true meaning behind “It Is Well.” Here are a few quotes from media outlets sharing thoughts on Kutless’ latest release:
– Blogcritics.com
“Kutless matches strength with strength, which is the aforementioned power, both vocally and instrumentally, causing a sincere call to worship.”
– ChristianMusicZine.com
“Kutless has a solid worship album on their hands. With a strong theme and powerful melodies, this is an impressive CD. As far as worship albums go, ‘It Is Well’ is very uplifting and inspirational, and stays true to the Kutless sound.”
– Examiner.com
“‘It Is Well’ will be a staple in any worship or rock collection. It is a seamless hybrid of the two styles. I can only hope they will continue to put out more worship albums like this one in the future.”
– TheChristianManifesto.com
“Here it’s all about placing the focus on a wonderful God through making beautiful music, and Kutless has accomplished that in full. There are no tracks worth skipping, and I think that any fan of Kutless, their ‘Strong Tower’ release, or those who like the lighter side of rock-n-roll will definitely enjoy this one.”
– JesusFreakHideout.com
“‘It Is Well’ is a solid, uplifting worship album. Kutless once again proves that worship can be rockin’.”
– ChristianMusicReview.com
Launched by original members Jon Micah Sumrall (lead vocals) and guitarist James Mead, the band formed first as a modern rock/worship band at Warner Pacific College in Portland in 2000, influenced by Christian rock predecessors such as the Supertones as well as mainstream modern rockers like Staind, Foo Fighters, and Incubus. Kutless signed to Tooth & Nail/BEC in late 2001 and released its self-titled debut the following year, which went on to become the fastest-selling debut in the label’s history. Hearts of the Innocent marked the recording debut of the band’s new members, drummer Jeffrey Gilbert and bass player Dave Luetkenhoelter, both formerly of alt-rock band Seven Places. In 2007, Nick De Partee joined the band as the new guitarist after being with the band for over a year as their guitar tech.
This Portland, Oregon-based Kutless has emerged as one of Christian and rock music’s hottest acts. Kutless has played before more than 2 million fans in the past five years. In 2009, the band was awarded RIAA Gold Certification for their worship-based album “Strong Tower” in addition to Gold Certification for Long-Form video “Live From Portland.” The band has been nominated for multiple Dove Awards, earning its first for the band’s participation on the Special Event Album of the Year, the soundtrack to “Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.” Kutless’ music also has been featured in television and film. The Kutless song “All of the Words” appeared on the NBC hit TV show “Scrubs,” in an episode titled “My Bright Idea.” Last year, the band’s song “The Feeling” was featured on the Rock Band 2 downloadable track for Playstation 3, Xbox 360 and Wii.
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