Avalon has truly been ‘Reborn’

Avalon (above) and Selah will take the stage at Broad River Electric Auditorium for a concert on Friday, Oct. 23. Every once in a while it’s good to try something new.

Known for its slick brand of vocal pop and inspirational music, Christian recording group Avalon has built quite a fan base around the world, reinforced by an impressive resume that includes 21 chart-topping singles, six Dove Awards, three Grammy nominations and an American Music Award.

Just like the four seasons we go through during the course of a year, God is believed to have a certain timing for each of our lives. For Avalon members Jeremi and Amy Richardson and Greg and Janna Long, this year has been one of change as the quartet signed a new recording deal in addition to preparing for a fall tour with another well-known Christian group, Selah.

Even the foursome’s music has undergone an extensive overhaul, showing the group with God's help has been 'Reborn,' the title of the quartet's latest album released last month.

"'Reborn' is really a fitting title because it signifies the birth of something new and exciting, which is certainly true of the current season of Avalon," said group member Janna Long. "We signed a new record deal earlier this year and found ourselves planning a fall tour, which meant a new album in between. It was a really exciting whirlwind that forced us to all get in high gear and give it our best."

Local residents will get the opportunity to see Avalon in person this weekend, as the group accompanied by Selah visits Gaffney.

Avalon's last visit to Cherokee County was last year on Palm Sunday. Though the music may be much different, group member Jeremi Richardson said the name and message remain the same.

"The goal is for the Holy Spirit to set the tone, opening the eyes of the lost so they can be saved," said Richardson. "When people listen to our music, we want them to leave behind their current circumstances and let God take control."

According to Richardson, 'Reborn' is an intense album, a true departure from the three- and fourpart harmonies fans have become accustomed to over the years.

"This album was a way for us to celebrate life and gave us as a group the chance to creatively step out of the box," Richardson said. "Life is given a reality with things that we didn't know were important, yet become real before our eyes. This album kind of reflects that, but also the belief that God is still faithful."

While the quartet will play material from their latest album, the other half of the show will be dedicated to Avalon's classic tunes, even allowing those in the audience to dictate songs for the group to perform.

"No need for anyone to be concerned, we'll be performing our classics as well," Richardson said.

The concert is set for Friday, Oct. 23, at the Broad River Electric Cooperative Auditorium. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and admission is $10.

For more information, call (864) 489-1604.