DEPTH will be releasing through a unique management and label partnership with industry veteran Chris Erlanson's 168 Management and distribution through STL Distribution.
Aryn's journey to music began as so many artists do: singing in church. This love of music and her natural talent opened the door to attend the prestigious Berklee School of Music where she studied songwriting. Upon receiving her degree, Aryn struggled to find her place, writing songs that reflected her life, but not necessarily her passion for sharing the deeper elements of her faith.
"I've been a follower of Jesus Christ since I was 8 years old, but I have finally arrived at the place where I have let go of my personal ambition and simply want to go where God is taking me artistically. I hope Depth communicates the honesty and vulnerability of that spiritual growth," explains Aryn.
During her participation at IMMERSE, Aryn met the team at 168 Management who put together a strategy to launch her album. Balancing a budding career with a growing family can be a daunting challenge, so a team was built around Aryn to create Depth, a sonically strong album that balances her Alt-Americana vocals with lyrics that challenge the listener to take a new look at the bigger questions in life.
"I don't want to write songs that are 'a mile wide and an inch deep'," she continues. "I want to write about scripture, biblical people and the Christian experience with theological depth. I want to ask hard questions and give people a work of art that they enjoy because it not only encourages them, but challenges them as well. If we as Christians have a desire to embrace art that speaks truth, then it's going to get messy and complicated because life with Christ is messy and complicated."
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Deeper Than Words| Posted July 22, 2015
GMA 2014 Immerse Conference Female Songwriter/Artist of the Year Aryn Michelle desires more than just a catchy hook in her songs. The powerhouse vocalist longs to use her music to challenge listeners by asking the hard questions with underlying Biblical truth. Aryn wants to create more than a basic surface-level song. Hence the name of her latest Alt-Americana release, Depth.
"Narrow Gate" brings the album to life with southern vibes, setting the tone for "Fight The Good Fight," a duet with Derek Webb. "Nothing Else Matters" brings down the tempo for a moment of worship before leading into the deeply personal "Moses." "Do The Same" tackles the difficult subjects of religion and rules, while up-tempo "Pressing On" sends a positive message of endurance.
Both "Road To Heaven" and the title track put Aryn's stellar vocal ability on display as her voice soars to sing powerful lyrics. "Belong To You" is a standout track at first listen, speaking of how Christ understands everything we go through in this life. Closing out the record, "The Sky Is Falling" is a beautiful acoustic piece that sings of making it through hard times.
Closing Thoughts: Depth is a well-produced project in which Aryn shows herself as a promising artist with both the strong vocals and passionate songwriting. With lyrics that challenge fans, Depth is much more than just a basic collection of songs. Aryn Michelle has found her voice and is sure to encourage fans with this release.
Song To Download Now:
"Pressing On" (Get it on iTunes here.)