Trollheart

I tend to shy from Christian music, not only because I'm no longer a believer (if indeed I ever was, and not just indoctrinated by good old Catholic Ireland) but because I really don't want to hear someone, as you mention, pushing their religious/political/personal agenda down my throat, when all I want is to listen to the music.

I managed to overcome this attitude slightly though when I came across Narnia. If you don't know them, they are (or were, think they've split up now) a Christian heavy metal band who, although they sing about God and Jesus and so on, don't push their beliefs down your throat. AND they sound effing fantastic! Try this one...

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Trollheart: Signature-free since April 2018

Geekoid

Yeah, I see what you mean. I actually kind of liked that Narnia track! I can't believe I've never heard of them. The lyrics they use are personal, which I like. I think that in the realm of Christian music, there are really three kinds of beneficial approaches-

1. Music meant for other Christians, which is essentially preaching, that to a Christian like myself can be helpful, positively convicting, or potentially hurtful, depending on how it's delivered.

2. Music meant for everyone, which usually tones down the "you should" and "we need to" perspective and amplifies the "from my own experience" prespective, or it shies away from Christian themes in favor of "universal" ones that everyone can relate to. This is where you get crossover artists like Amy Grant and Switchfoot.

and 3. Worship music intended for God only. i.e. the "Vertical" perspective.

It's certainly important to know your audience, but never compromise your beliefs (no matter who you are or what you believe, honesty is important). And it's equally important to make quality music. I'll have to go check out some more Narnia!