Risen From The Ashes: bio

Risen From The Ashes is an Edmonton, AB based band with a close affinity to walking alongside those who struggle with addictions and recovery issues with a message of hope and restoration. Understanding first hand the devastating effects of addictions, experiencing the gift of salvation, they continue to work as pastors, counsellors, and teachers. The band originally formed in 2000 as, and continues to be, the praise and worship band for Edmonton Crossroads Community Church (an inner city church plant assisting many who struggle with addictions and recovery issues), and consists of Murray Jaster (vocal/acoustic guitar); Ray Mailman (vocals/lead guitar); Larry Brown (keyboards); Dean Jaster(bass/piano); Dawn Jaster (percussion) and Joseph Jenkins (drums/percussion).

Their original music and covers are being played in congregations around the world since their award winning debut release in 2004. As Risen From The Ashes’ continues to be an inspiration in worship and concert settings, they are committed to the role God has placed on their lives. Whether it's providing new songs for praise & worship or mentoring those in addictions, they are effecting change in peoples lives to the glory of the Kingdom.

"We can look back on the past few years of writing and performing songs and see what God has been doing in our lives," says Jenkins. "It's just like journaling. It's a part of us and it is how God speaks to not only us, but those we share that message and purpose with. But on top of that, when you've poured out your heart to God in a small church somewhere, and then one day you hear how something you did, or the music you played, impacted someone’s life, it's a great encouragement, but even more so it’s evident how God uses us in His time.

We are becoming more confident and even more passionate about trying to write songs in a way that many different people can identify with. It’s not about any one individual, it is having our eyes towards God - letting all that we do be an inspired heartfelt response to God, and using His inspiration that may help others in their lives to find peace and joy."

Risen From The Ashes is currently completing their second studio album, set for release in the summer of 2008.  The album is already creating rave reviews after their double nomination at the 2006 LA Music Awards for Christian Contemporary "Single of the Year" for the first two tracks "Hold On Tight" and "Misunderstood", for which "Misunderstood" garnered the award amongst thousands of international entries.  Following the completion of the studio album Risen From The Ashes will be scheduling mini tours throughout 2008.


Highlights:

2005 MAJA Award Alternative / Rock Recording
2005 MAJA Awards feature Performer
2005 MAJA Award Nominations for Best New Artist and Group of the Year
2005 Faces of Recovery – Benefit Concert Series
2000 – 2005 & 2007 Salvation Army Festival of Carols
2006 Salvation Army FORWARD '06 Congress
2006 Christian Rock Day with Janelle
2006 MAJA Award Nominee for Group of the Year
2006 LA Music Award Nominee "Single of the Year" – Hold On Tight
2006 LA Music Award for "Single of the Year" – Misunderstood