Whether classical, pop, rock, R&B or jazz, a musical composition produces exciting sounds and beats that invariably inspire a range of feelings and emotions among millions of listeners.

The universal appeal and popularity of music is a testimony to this salutary artistic achievement of man and the success of the human spirit and skill in producing something good and noble out of a creative gift from God.

For two unforgettable evenings, the Giver of the precious gift of music will be fittingly honored and glorified through the uplifting sound of modern rock-worship music when internationally-acclaimed and Grammy Award-nominated worship band Sonicflood tours Manila in June for a special engagement.

"SONICFLOOD…Praise And Worship Night!," is a musical presentation from Renen de Guia’s Ovation Productions scheduled on June 13 at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City, to be followed by another performance on June 14 at the Cebu Waterfront Hotel in Cebu City.

The musical event is expect

Among its hit songs are "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High," "Open The Eyes Of My Heart," "I Have To Know You (In The Secret)," "I Will Give"/"Cry Holy," "I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever," "Better Is One Day," "In Your Hands," "The Heart Of Worship," "You Are Worthy Of My Praise," "Here I Am To Worship," "Trading My Sorrow," and many more.

In its brief but successful musical career, Sonicflood has gained international recognition for its significant achievements in the modern rock-worship movement through its innovative works in putting electric guitars, distortions and audio effects to worship lyrics.

At the heart of Sonicflood d is a deep and earnest longing that transcends the act of creating music but evolves into an inner desire to see people love and adore God wherever they may be, geographically and spiritually.

This desire and belief to render praise and honor to God under all circumstances is defined in every performance by front man Rick Heil who acknowledges that music was created by God to be used to bring Him glory.

"We want to see people falling in love with Jesus Christ through this amazing vehicle and gift we call music," he exclaims. "May we see a greater revelation of just how much God loves His creation and then celebrate God’s love with our worship!"

In sharing God’s goodness and faithfulness in the lives of its members, Sonicflood seeks to translate the energetic beats and heartfelt worship lyrics of its music into powerful instruments that would uplift the spirit of others.

"I think worship music is one of the strongest tools we have in fighting negative messages, including bitterness, anger and depression," says Heil. "You are what you’re filled with. The great thing about worship music is it is always available. If you feel overwhelmed by this life, you can crank up the tunes and let the Lord minister to you and get refocused."

The origins of Sonicflood, which is based in Nashville, Tennessee, can be traced back to the band Zilch, which changed its name after shifting to praise and worship sound and style upon the suggestion of Gotee Records producers who saw it perform a cover of "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High."

Heil, then bass player for Big Tent Revival, joined the group in February 1999 before it began touring.

To date, it has extensively and consistently toured other parts of the globe, such as India, Australia, the Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, Malaysia, Mexico, Northern Ireland, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

It has also teamed up with the International Mission Board for its 56-city "This Generation" tour in 2006, which encouraged concert-goers to become more involved in mission works domestically and internationally.

Tickets to the Araneta Coliseum concert are available at Ticketnet outlets at SM Department Stores and at any Praise Music outlet.

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Night of great music at VSO benefit night

Music for mind, body, and soul moves to a whole new level as Richard Merk, Lolita Carbon, John Lesaca and Cash Manalang of Area One, and RX 80s headline "Hand in Hand for a Night of Music: A Benefit for VSO Bahaginan" on May 15 at 7 p.m., Merk’s Bar Bistro, Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati City.

The charity event also doubles as the 50th anniversary celebration of VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas), a development organization committed to fighting global poverty and disadvantage through a wide range of volunteering development programs.

VSO Bahaginan is a member of the VSO Federation, together with other independent members located in Canada, Kenya, the Netherlands, Ireland and the United Kingdom. VSO is an international development charity that works through volunteers.

The organization’s development goals cover education, HIV and AIDS, disability, health and social well-being, secure livelihoods, and participation and governance.

VSO Bahaginan has, in its roster, qualified and experienced Filipino professionals who are willing to share their skills as volunteers to disadvantaged people in other developing countries.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, May 13, goes to Senator Mar Roxas, Reggie Regalado, Atty. Oliver Lozano, Ditas Ferrera of Baras, Kenneth Lagadi, and Maricon Lagadi of Las Vegas...