8 off 8th Features Christian Rockers

Nashville’s BMI offices threw a spotlight on the country’s able-bodied Christian rock scene recently during its weekly 8 off 8th showcase at Mercy Lounge. Destin, Florida’s Chris Taylor; Bridgeport, Illinois’ World in White; Kansas City, Missouri’s The Becoming; Lubbock, Texas’ Josh Wilson; and hometown heroes The Glorious Unseen and The Last Goodbye poured infectious energy into a stacked crowd who hung on every choice word and dramatic chord.

The Becoming take their turn onstage. Pictured are (l to r): The Becoming guitarist Dustinn Lowry, keyboardist Justin Carpenter, lead singer Caleb Owens, drummer Dustin Carpenter in back and bass player Kory Arcidino.

The Glorious Unseen take some time to be seen. Pictured are (l to r): EMI CMG’s Eddie Degarmo, BMI’s Beth Mason, The Glorious Unseen’s lead vocalist Ben Crist, EMI CMG’s Jeremy Ash, The Glorious Unseen’s pianist Patrick Copeland and BMI’s Jody Williams, with The Glorious Unseen’s bassist Ben Harms kneeling in front.

Harpist Timbre Cierpke adds a unique rock element to The Glorious Unseen.

Chris Taylor’s three-piece crew grooved through Taylor’s moody tunes. Pictured are (l to r): Justin York, Chris Taylor and Bala.

BMI’s Beth Mason hangs with The Becoming for a few minutes between sets. Pictured are (l to r): BMI’s Beth Mason, The Becoming’s drummer Dustin Carpenter, guitarist Dustinn Lowry, keyboardist Justin Carpenter and bassist Kory Arcidino, with EMI CMG’s Jeremy Ash, The Becoming’s lead singer Caleb Owens and EMI CMG’s Eddie DeGarmo.

Pop rocker Josh Wilson had some encouraging words for the crowd. Pictured are (l to r): pianist Jeff Pardo, singer/songwriter Josh Wilson, drummer Lee Holland and bassist Rich Brimsfield.

Photos by Kay Clary