That some might be saved…
For these guys, this is what it’s all about. The last several years of working hard, paying dues, having their faith stretched in ways that would bring anyone to their knees; have taught these four young men to live lives fully surrendered to God, to abandon everything for one purpose: to go wherever He leads… that some might be saved.
After three years of grassroots touring as One Way and One Way Home, this road-tested band with a hard-work ethic is taking things to the next level. Cliff Preston (lead vocals & guitars), Wes Hymer (bass & vocals), Seth Bradham (drums), and Josh Bryant (guitars and vocals) have been given some incredible opportunities and felt it was time to make some changes that will marry their ministry efforts to the road that lies ahead.
One such change was renaming the band to better reflect their hearts. The name Two Empty Chairs speaks of the band's desire to put others first. Figuratively standing to allow others to take their place at the table; just as they have tasted the blessings of God, they want to share what they have found with others.
The music…
Along with the adoption of a new identity, Two Empty Chairs entered the studio to record their forthcoming national debut album Brighter Day. Utilizing the masterful production skills of Barry Blair (formerly of Audio Adrenaline) alongside the mixing talents of Skid Mills (Third Day, Jennifer Knapp, Sister Hazel), Two Empty Chairs manages to deliver a very memorable rock album with hook-driven pop sensibilities and intelligent lyrics. Drawing from influences like David Crowder, U2, Third Eye Blind, Matchbox 20, and Sister Hazel; Two Empty Chairs crafts a dynamic musicality that is uniquely their own.
Perhaps the most impressive thing, musically speaking, about Two Empty Chairs is that they create music that is diverse in substance, theme and style. These guys are exactly what a rock band should be: musicians that put on their hard hats, grab their lunch pails, and go to work every day; the result is a wonderfully multifaceted album that spans the genres of modern rock, soul, and worship.
Beyond the music…
The songs from their forthcoming national debut album Brighter Day came together over the course of several months of writing. “Our hearts have been heavy for young people”, says Cliff Preston “and people in general, who have a feeling of hopelessness and despair.” The songs deal with real life problems in a compelling and relatable way without attempting to answer all of the listener’s questions, but rather point them to the One who has the answers.
“We’re also trying to bring awareness to the epidemic of Teen Suicide”, Cliff continues, “we are finding that young people battling depression, insecurity, peer pressure, low self-esteem and so many other difficult issues often contemplate suicide and feel there is no way out and no one to turn to. We want to be there for those people, we feel a special burden to reach out to those who feel hopeless. This is a problem that has hit too close to home, as we have lost someone just recently to suicide. The name Two Empty Chairs is a constant reminder to always be there. I will take a seat and you take a seat, and together we will get the help you need.”
Is this seat taken?
At the end of the day, it isn't about record sales or any rock star ambitions for these four; they are far more interested in making a lasting impact on people’s lives. Record sales, radio hits and touring success pale in comparison to bringing hope to those who so desperately need to hear from someone they can relate to; someone who will wrap their arms around them and pray with them and cry with them; someone who can tell them with absolute certainty that there is a God who loves them and who wants nothing more than to heal their broken hearts. That is something with lasting implications. That is the legacy Two Empty Chairs will leave. Whether playing for thousands or for only a few, Two Empty Chairs goes with the attitude “that some might be saved”.
They are passionate about what they do, literally reaching their peers for Christ. And you are invited to sit in the best seat in the house.
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