By Andy Argyrakis
In what seemed like an overnight journey, the vertically leaning band Fee went from local obscurity to one of the contemporary church's most regularly sung acts. That's because the Atlanta-based collective inked a deal with INO Records and saw its 2007 debut disc, We Shine, score a Dove nomination and Top 10 single with "All Because of Jesus." Two years later, the band is back with Hope Rising, once again centering around modern rock undertones and worshipful lyrics. Front man Steve Fee also asserts it can be a beacon of hope amidst society's current despair.
1. What inspired the album title Hope Rising?
Steve Fee: There are several songs on this record that champion the hope and faithfulness we find in our Jesus. The certainty of that hope is most evident when the things in this world in which we place our hope fail us. It's in the midst of tragedy and despair where we find the sustaining strength of our God the most clearly. The songs that echo this amazing truth are where this recording derives its name. When you factor the person of Jesus into any equation in life, even in our darkest day, you will always find
Hope Rising.
2. How would you compare and contrast the songwriting from the first disc? Fee: The intent is much the same: songs for the church, songs for worship, songs for culture. Much of our songwriting is to give a voice to worshippers. That remains the same on this record for many songs. A few songs are a bit different than the last—kind of the next step in the Fee journey. Songs that could be categorized as maybe a bit more conversational...songs that offer hope to a hurting person in the midst of uncertain times.
3. How has your sound changed from then until now? Fee: Better, more dynamic and more diverse. Fee round two!
4. Tell us about the tune "Glory to God Forever" and how it ties into these tough economic times. Fee: Regardless of the economic climate, the truth about our existence remains. We are created by God. We are created for God. And we are created for worship. This song is twofold: part declaration and part prayer. It boils down to asking God to let our lives, in the good times and bad, through seasons of peace or storms, reflect the goodness and grandness of our Father.
5. How do you balance leading worship at your church with a fulltime career as an artist? Fee: Our home church is North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia. We value highly our opportunity to serve our local church and journey with a community of believers. We get to see and experience God in amazing ways in the context of our church. And then we get to export what we've seen God do as we travel and tour.
