Album Notes

Throughout life, we hear certain songs which instantly catapult us back in time, immediately reminding us of where we were and what we were doing, a good song will do just that every time...

Founded in 2002, the band Mars Hill's unique alternative, melodic rock sound was born out of guitarist "Chip" and vocalist Jack Marques' chance meeting with acclaimed producer Michael Sweet (solo artist, Stryper vocalist).

Both veterans of the local music scene, it was Jack and Chip's first time working together and upon hearing the songs they collaborated on, Michael felt there was a certain magic in what they wrote. After spending time writing, they knew it was time to do a record. Chip recruited seasoned bassist and friend Chris Sutherland. Jack brought with him long time music partners drummer Michael Aguiar and keyboardist Ruben DeMello. Each addition brought their own distinctive flavor to the table and during rehearsals for the record; they knew something special was beginning to happen.

Soon after, their debut CD, Sink or Swim (Produced by Michael Sweet) was released in the Spring of 2003. (In addition to producing the CD, Michael Sweet provided background vocals and additional guitar on the song "Love Waits" along with an acoustic guitar performance on "I Remember You".) This independent release was met with positive, international acclaim. The band aggressively marketed the album by taking it to the stage, selling it at local music stores and their Web site, www.marshilltheband.com as well as through on-line retailers servicing Europe and Asia. In the Fall of 2003, they accompanied Stryper as the opening act on their 7 Weeks: Live In America reunion tour.

Not ones to rest on their new found success and knowing that the road is where a band earns its fans; Mars Hill continued to relentlessly tour the Boston and Providence club scene week after week. Throughout 2004/05, they continued writing new material while headlining shows and opening for established acts like Tesla, Shinedown, Jani Lane of Warrant and members of the legendary Vanilla Fudge. In February 2005, Mars Hill won the first round of the Emergenza Live Music Festival held at the Middle East and will defend their title at Boston's Paradise Rock Club on Sunday, May 1st.

With their charitable support, Mars Hill continues to use their talent for the good of others. As avid supporters of the STATION FAMILY FUND they contributed the song "I Remember You" to the Rock to the Rescue benefit CD as well as performing at a number of benefit concerts with all proceeds going to the victims and their families of that deadly nightclub fire. The song "Stay" will be featured on the upcoming N ROCK UNITED benefit CD, scheduled for release this spring, with all proceeds going to the Children's Miracle Network which covers the medical expenses of hospitalized children.

In 2005, Mars Hill released the EP titled Prelude which was produced by front man Jack Marques. Like their debut record Sink or Swim, Prelude is further evidence of their unique sound and creativity, revealing an edge, melody and style all their own. The content of their music is thought provoking and inspiring; reflecting on humanity, spirituality and personal history. Their radio friendly choruses are infectious, yet gritty enough to offer something new with each listen. Mars Hill's music will affect you in so many ways; add them to the soundtrack we call, life...