Album Notes

Byword is a melodically guitar-driven Christian rock band out of Northern Idaho. Front-man Elliot Stone expresses the band's heart in saying that, "During our performances, we have a limited amount of time. In that time we have volumes we wish to communicate, that there is a God, a purpose, a hope, a peace, and a forgiveness that can be found in this rough world. Every moment that God is able to speak through us and communicate those truths is a precious gift. Wherever we are, whether it's meeting with thousands or with one, what matters is that people have a chance to experience God."
Comprised of Stone as well as Neil Young, and Brent Ragan, Byword strives to remind its listener that Jesus Christ is the answer for all in life. Jesus spoke in ways that were profound and relevant, using simple language. Whether a devoted follower or a first time listener was tuning in, the truth of God reached people of all occupations and backgrounds. In a similar manner, Byword desires these truths to come through their music and touch a diverse audience. "Our heart goes out to all those who are looking for something better, those who know that there is something deeper in life," says Stone.
The song "Gravity" captures this passion when it describes a person who questions the presence of God in the world. He wonders, "can I find peace in what I think gain?" After a lot of "calculation", the individual realizes that there is a, "gravity, which pulls [him] inside." "We received lots of feedback from people about 'Gravity,'" mentions Neil Young, the lead guitarist for the group, " It seemed they could identify with that same struggle and the irrepressible feeling of a greater meaning in life, bigger than the material." This realized, the bridge then cries for God's help, "Lord, save me, save my soul." "We all have questions and struggles," continues Young, " and we want to talk real with people. When things become unbearable and seemingly hopeless, Christ is waiting to help and will never fail."
Stone has worked as the worship leader for his youth group in Southern Oregon and has been a key individual in organizing a multi-denominational youth event as well as leading worship at Christian summer camps and church celebrations in the area. Both Elliot and Neil played together weekly on a worship team in Northern Idaho, playing for youth events as well as other church gatherings. The group's most highlighted work was winning a praise contest through Breakaway Magazine, a production of Focus on the Family. "I Give You Me" won as the best original worship song, allowing Byword to travel to Nashville, TN, meet with Audio Adrenaline, record with Oscar winning, Grammy nominated producer Tony MacAnany (Jennifer Knapp, P.O.D., Nicole C. Mullen) at Dark Horse Studios of Franklin, TN, as well as be featured on the front of Breakaway Magazine and the compilation praise CD, Breakaway Praise Adrenaline.
The group is currently working on their sophomore album. Dale Baker, formerly of Sixpence None the Richer, joined them on this project, playing the drums. The album is due for release this fall. Until that time, Byword is scheduling Christian summer camps and other youth events to play at around the Pacific Northwest as well as leading worship services occasionally for their home church in St. Maries, Idaho.