Hubbry Logo
Audio AdrenalineAudio AdrenalineMain
Open search
Audio Adrenaline
Community hub
Audio Adrenaline
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Audio Adrenaline
Audio Adrenaline
Audio Adrenaline
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Audio Adrenaline was an American Christian rock band that formed in 1986 at Kentucky Christian University in Grayson, Kentucky. The band gained recognition during the 1990s and received two Grammy Awards and multiple Dove Awards.[1] Audio Adrenaline were regular performers at the annual Creation Festival, Spirit West Coast festival, Agape Music Festival, and Alive Festival. In 2007, the group disbanded due to lead singer Mark Stuart's spasmodic dysphonia.

Key Information

After a hiatus, the band reformed in 2012 with only bassist Will McGinniss returning from the original line-up. The new Audio Adrenaline was fronted by Kevin Max, formerly of DC Talk, as the new lead vocalist. This new line-up released Kings & Queens on March 12, 2013. In June 2014, Max stepped down as lead singer of the band. He was replaced by Josh Engler, a former member of the band Abandon until February 2015 when Adam Agee of Stellar Kart was offered and accepted the role.

In 2015, McGinniss departed from the band, leaving no original members left in the lineup. The first single of the new Audio Adrenaline, "Love Was Stronger", was released in 2015 and was included on Sound of the Saints, their tenth and final studio album.[2]

History

[edit]

1986–1990: Formation as A-180

[edit]

The band was formed as A-180 in 1986 at Kentucky Christian University by Mark Stuart (lead vocals), Barry Blair (guitars), Will McGinniss (bass), Bob Herdman (keyboards), and Brian Hayes (drums).[3]

Herdman had written a song entitled "My God". The song was described in a CCM Magazine article as "a curious marriage of heavy metal and rap". After the song was recorded by A-180, a demo tape was sent to radio stations. The song quickly scaled the charts. Following this, the song caught the attention of Toby McKeehan (from dc Talk), who brought it to the executives at ForeFront Records. The label decided to offer a record deal to A-180 but had them change their name to Audio Adrenaline,[4][better source needed] a name that Herdman had come up with previously.[5]

1991–1993: Record deal with ForeFront and first albums

[edit]

After signing their deal with Forefront, the band started writing and recording demo songs similar to "My God" for the first album. The band has described this period as one of adaptation and experimentation since ForeFront wanted a hip-hop act. As a result, Dave Stuart and Ron Gibson left the band. Singer Mark Stuart said in an interview "We had no idea what we were doing. Forefront signed us to do this rap/metal stuff, and we only had one song" while original guitarist Barry Blair said "We thought 'If they liked My God, we'll send them more songs like that." Blair added that it was a "big, long process of getting to where we are now, of creating music we like, not music we think is what they [ForeFront] would like."[4]

The band's first Forefront album was the self-titled Audio Adrenaline, released in 1992. Filled with drum machine beats, rap and hip-hop it eventually went out of print. It included "DC-10", the only track from the original A-180 recordings (live drums) and was well received selling 75,000 copies.[4] However, the band was not happy with the result. Blair was quoted as saying:

If it was up to me, I would burn them all, make them disappear. It did well, it sold 75,000 units. But a lot of people don't understand. It is more than about it being a good record. It's about it being a true representation of us. There is nothing personal about that record.

— Barry Blair, CCM Magazine[4]

The follow-up album, Don't Censor Me, came the next year and featured what is considered the biggest hit of the band, "Big House". The album sold 250,000 copies and launched the band into stardom. The album also includes the song "We're a Band", which remained one of their live staples. Next the band released Live Bootleg.

Although Don't Censor Me leaned more towards rock, the band still was not happy. Stuart said of the songs "there are really only a few songs I love to play live. I like to do 'Big House,' 'We're a Band' and 'Scum Sweetheart.'" On the other hand, most of the band members disliked "Jesus and the California Kid" which Stuart referred to as "pure agony". Still, the album earned them their first Dove Award for Long Form Music Video of the Year for "Big House", as well as a Billboard Music Award Nomination.

1994–1999: Maturity and success

[edit]

As a result of the success of Don't Censor Me, Audio Adrenaline went on tour opening for DC Talk on the Free at Last Tour and Newsboys' Going Public Tour. However, on interviews the band expressed their interest to grow beyond the shadow of their musical counterparts.

Up until this point it's been great to be in their shadow. It's a great shadow to be in. But at a certain level it really does need to change to be where we grow into our own. We deal with this a lot with the record label. When you are on a record label with one of the [fastest-rising] Christian bands of all time, you are always going to be in the shadow. We would like to be recognized as Audio Adrenaline instead of 'the band that opens for DC Talk.’

— Mark Stuart, CCM Magazine[4]

In 1996, their third studio album, Bloom, was released. The album featured the band returning to their original rock roots, as opposed to their experiments with rap music. Many reviewers praised the band's decision to change and referred to the album as showcasing the maturity in the band members.[6]

Bloom was a huge hit becoming (in 1999) the only album of the band to be certified gold by RIAA. It also marked guitarist Blair's final album, who decided to become a music producer. In a 2015 interview with Breathecast, Blair talked about his reasons to leave citing his love of "the creative part of writing, recording, being in the studio, putting songs together" as the main factor. In the interview, he refers to the Bloom album as something he was "exceptionally proud of", and how he knew he was creating something that had "meaning and will touch people". Blair also added how his interest started to move away from the touring aspect until he "decided to make the jump to see if I can sink or swim as a producer".[7]

With Blair gone, Audio Adrenaline needed a new guitarist. They found a temporary fill-in with Brian McSweeney (from Seven Day Jesus),[8] but he decided to stay with his full-time act. They then turned the guitars over to Tyler Burkum, who joined the band at only 17 years of age, just in time to record some guitars on the band's next album, Some Kind of Zombie. The album, released in 1997, included a song from Barry Blair and was the first to feature Ben Cissell as the band's full-time drummer, though Cissell had played percussion on their previous album.

In 1999, the band released Underdog, its fifth studio album. Songwriter Bob Herdman called the album "more fun" than the previous one, while bassist Will McGinniss said how they wanted to "explore more artistically", while merging "ideas from the last three records".[9] The album includes a remake of the band's own "DC-10", which was originally featured in their first album, but this time using a swing style. The album was well received by critics, while peaking at #76 on Billboard.[10] After the release, the band also opened for dc Talk on the Jesus Freak World Tour.

2000–2007: Last albums with original members and retirement

[edit]

After a short break, Audio Adrenaline released their first greatest hits compilation, Hit Parade, in March 2001. Included in the album are three of their most popular songs, "Big House", "Hands and Feet", and the live staple "We're A Band", as well as a song with The O.C. Supertones, "Blitz", from the album Some Kind of Zombie. It was at this time that Herdman left the band to become president of a new record label, Flicker Records, which he co-founded along with Stuart and McGinniss.

In November 2001, the band released a new studio album, Lift which several critics have classified as the band's best.[11][12] Lift also marked the first time that guitarist Burkum shared lead vocals with Stuart. The band then followed with their ninth album, Worldwide, released in 2003. Worldwide went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Rock Gospel Album in 2004, the first of two Grammys for the band. In 2004, the band, along with Herdman, founded a project in Haiti called the Hands and Feet Project, in which the band built an orphanage for children.

The band's tenth studio album, Until My Heart Caves In, was released on August 30, 2005. The album featured most of the lead vocals by Burkum, with only a few sung by Stuart. Until My Heart Caves In received another Grammy Award for Best Rock Gospel Album in 2006. "Clap Your Hands" was also played on ESPN with football game highlights.

On January 18, 2006, Audio Adrenaline announced that they were retiring from active music ministry and cited Stuart's "ongoing vocal challenges" stemming from vocal cord damage as the primary factor.[13] On July 27, 2006, the band played at the popular Christian music Creation Festival, where they had performed every year since the group formed, for the last time with their original lineup. On August 1, 2006, they released their final compilation album, Adios: The Greatest Hits, a farewell album containing two new tracks as well as a selection of the band's greatest hits to date.

For their final national tour in early 2007, Audio Adrenaline opened for MercyMe on their "Coming Up to Breathe Tour". The tour concluded on April 28, 2007, at the Waikiki Shell in Honolulu, Hawaii. Their final project, Live From Hawaii: The Farewell Concert, was released on August 28, 2007, as a live CD–DVD combo and earned two nominations at the 39th GMA Dove Awards, winning Long Form Music Video of the Year.

2008–2011: Other projects

[edit]

After the band's retirement, their members dedicated their time to other projects. Mark Stuart and Will McGinniss started a project called Know Hope Collective, which features a changing group of musicians singing worship songs and presenting testimonies.[14] They both have also been working extensively with The Hands and Feet Project in Haiti. Tyler Burkum has been playing for several bands and as a session musician. He also started his own band called The Leagues. Ben Cissell ran a skate club/youth ministry venue called Rocketttown, and then started pursuing film work.[15] Finally, Bob Herdman has been working as a Project Manager for several companies in the Nashville area.[16]

The group played a reunion performance at Easterfest '09 in Queens Park, Toowoomba, Australia.[17]

2012–2017: Reformation and new singers

[edit]

In 2012, former members Stuart and McGinniss, along with the band's new manager Wes Campbell, decided to re-launch the band with a new line-up.[18] According to them, one of their options was to ask Kevin Max, formerly of DC Talk, to be the new lead vocalist. Max, who had worked with Audio Adrenaline previously, said it was "a no-brainer" for him when they approached him.

"I'm just really super excited. These are guys I look up to ... The only [question] that I had in the whole scenario was: 'What's this going to be like musically?'"

— Kevin Max, Billboard[15]

In addition to Max as the new lead vocalist, the band also added Dave Ghazarian of Superchick on the guitar, Jared Byers of Bleach on the drums, Jason Walker on the keyboard, and McGinniss on bass. Former singer Stuart remained as producer and songwriter. On March 3, 2013, Audio Adrenaline released Kings and Queens.[19] The album peaked at No. 70 on the Billboard 200 chart,[20] and No. 4 on the Christian Albums chart.[21] Aside of its chart performance, Kings & Queens received praise from critics who referred to it as "possibly the greatest comeback project in Christian music today" and a "fresh album that will keep both old and new fans alike".

In 2013, Dave Ghazarian and Jason Walker left the band, and were replaced by Dwayne Larring formerly of Sonicflood. In June 2014, Kevin Max also stepped down as lead vocalist. In an interview with Jesus Freak Hideout, Max said the decision was "amicable" and cited a difference of opinion in terms of the band's musical future as the reason for his departure. According to Max, the band's management wanted to move the band towards a more "worship music mode", even becoming the house band for the Acquire the Fire events, whereas he was more interested in a more "alternative or indie pop rock" style.

I felt like I didn't really fit the worship music leader mode and they agreed ... It became pretty apparent that we were on separate paths when it came to musicality and creativity ... To add to that, I wanted to push the envelope with the band musically. I wanted to create art on the level of The Killers, Switchfoot, Coldplay, U2, etc. I think that eventually, the band was at a place where it needed to evolve. Management decided to go a different direction... I had to be honest and realize that I probably didn't fit what they wanted to do.

— Kevin Max, JesusFreakHideout[22]

Max was temporarily replaced by Josh Engler from Abandon who transitioned in taking on vocal duties.[2] In February 2015, drummer Jared Byers left the band to pursue other interests, but was followed by Dwayne Larring, Engler and founder Will McGinniss.[23] McGinniss wrote a statement in which he called the last years "an incredible blast and honor", but cited his desire to work more fully with the Hands & Feet Project as his reason to leave the band.[24] His departure left the band with no original members remaining.

On February 10, 2015, Adam Agee, lead singer of Christian rock band Stellar Kart announced that he would assume the role of lead singer for the band along with guitarist Brandon Bagby to replace Larring, bassist Dave Stovall to replace McGinniss, and drummer Jack Campbell to replace Byers.[24] They also released "Love Was Stronger" on February 10, 2015, off the album, Sound of the Saints.[citation needed]

Following their 2017 tour, the band has not released any updates, though a dissolution was not formally announced.

In 2019, Mark Stuart released Losing My Voice to Find It, reflecting on his time in Audio Adrenaline, losing his ability to sing, and the time after.

In 2023, Agee joined the Newsboys as a bassist and additional guitarist and became lead vocalist in 2025 following the departure of previous lead vocalist Michael Tait.

Band members

[edit]
  • Will McGinniss – vocals, bass guitar (1986–2007, 2012–2015)
  • Mark Stuart – lead vocals, guitar (1986–2007)
  • Barry Blair – guitar, vocals (1986–1996)
  • Dave Stuart – keyboards, vocals (1986, 1991)
  • Phil Vaughan — drums (1986–1988)
  • Ron Gibson – drums (1988–1991)
  • Bob Herdman – keyboard, guitar, vocals (1991–2001)
  • Ben Cissell – drums (1995–2007)
  • Tyler Burkum – guitar, vocals, keyboard (1997–2007)
  • Dave Ghazarian – guitar (2012–2013)
  • Jason Walker – keyboards, vocals, guitar (2012–2013)
  • Kevin Max – lead vocals (2012–2014)
  • Jared Byers – drums, vocals (2012–2015)
  • Josh Engler – lead vocals, keyboard (2014–2015)
  • Dwayne Larring – guitar, vocals (2013–2015)
  • Adam Agee – lead vocals (2015–2017)
  • Dave Stovall – bass guitar, vocals (2015–2017)
  • Jack Campbell – drums (2015–2017)
  • Brandon Bagby – guitar, vocals (2015–2017)

Touring musicians

  • Brian Hayes – drums (1993–1995)
  • Jon Knox – drums (1995 replacing Brian Hayes on various dates before Ben Cissell joined)[citation needed]
  • Brian Whitman – guitar, vocals (2005–2007)
  • David Stuart – keyboard, vocals (1986–1991)
  • Ron Gibson – drums (1988–1991)
  • Jonathan Schneck – backup guitar, backing vocals (2003–2005)
  • Brian McSweeney – guitar, vocals (1996–97, replacing Barry Blair; 2007, filled in for Tyler Burkum for final shows)
  • Jared Byers – drums (2007, filled in for Ben Cissell for final shows)[8]
  • Mike Biddle – keyboards, backing vocals (2009)

Timeline

Other projects

[edit]

On September 1, 2003, the band released its first book Dirty Faith: Becoming the Hands and Feet of Jesus, with Think Books. Co-written with Mark Matlock, the book discusses reaching out to the needy and features an organization called Mission Year.

In 2003, Mark Stuart was involved in !Hero the Rock opera, playing Petrov. !Hero was a modern adaption of the story of Christ. Also involved in this production were Michael Tait as HERO, CCM pop vocalist Rebecca St. James as Maggie, Skillet's John Cooper as Kai, the chief Rabbi, and rapper T-Bone as Jairus.

On September 5, 2006, the band released Hands & Feet: Inspiring Stories and Firsthand Accounts of God Changing Lives, with Regal Books. It takes the reader on a journey to Haiti with the band as they build houses for the children there. The reader also meets Drex and Jo Stuart, the parents of frontman Mark Stuart. The book gives an explanation of life in one of the poorest nations on earth. It also tells of the band's building of The Hands and Feet Project (an orphanage for poor, hungry children).

in 2007, Stuart and Will McGinniss launched "Audio Unplugged" (also known as "Audio Talks"), a post-retirement speaking venture that offers "a night of encouragement, testimonies, Audio A classics and worship."[25]

Discography

[edit]
Main article: Audio Adrenaline discography

Original era

Reboot era

Awards and nominations

[edit]

Grammy Awards

[edit]
Year Award Result
1997 Best Rock Gospel Album (Bloom) Nominated
1999 Best Rock Gospel Album (Some Kind of Zombie) Nominated
2000 Best Rock Gospel Album (Underdog) Nominated
2003 Best Rock Gospel Album (Lift) Nominated
2004 Best Rock Gospel Album (Worldwide) Won
2006 Best Rock Gospel Album (Until My Heart Caves In) Won

GMA Dove Awards

[edit]
Year Award Result
1996 Long Form Music Video of the Year ("Big House") Won
1998 Modern Rock Recorded Song of the Year ("Some Kind of Zombie") Won
2000 Rock Recorded Song of the Year ("Get Down") Won
2002 Rock Recorded Song of the Year ("Will Not Fade) Nominated
2003 Group of the Year Nominated
Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year ("Ocean Floor") Nominated
Rock Album of the Year (Lift) Won
2004 Rock Recorded Song of the Year ("Dirty") Nominated
Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year (Worldwide) Nominated
Long Form Music Video of the Year (Alive) Nominated
2008 Rock Album of the Year (Live from Hawaii: The Farewell Concert) Nominated
Long Form Music Video of the Year (Live from Hawaii: The Farewell Concert) Won

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Audio Adrenaline

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Audio Adrenaline was an American band formed in 1986 at in , initially under the name A-180. The band, featuring core members Mark Stuart on lead vocals, Barry Blair on guitar, Will McGinniss on bass, and Bob Herdman on keyboards, rose to prominence in the with an energetic pop-rock style infused with faith-based themes, releasing hits such as "Big House," "Hands and Feet," and "Never Gonna Be as Big as ." Over their initial two-decade run, they sold more than three million albums worldwide, earned five Dove Awards, and secured two for Best Rock Gospel Album in 2004 for Worldwide and in 2006 for Until My Heart Caves In. In 2004, inspired by their song "Hands and Feet," the band co-founded The Hands and Feet Project, a dedicated to caring for vulnerable children and preserving families in . After disbanding in 2007 due to Stuart's , Audio Adrenaline reformed in 2012 with former member as lead vocalist (replaced by Adam Agee in 2014), alongside McGinniss and other members, releasing albums like Kings & Queens (2013) and Sound of the Saints (2015) before concluding activities in 2017. The band's legacy endures through their music's influence on contemporary and their ongoing humanitarian efforts via The Hands and Feet Project.

History

Formation as A-180 (1986–1990)

Audio Adrenaline originated in 1986 at in , where a group of students came together to form a band initially known as A-180. The core founding members were Mark Stuart, Barry Blair, and Will McGinniss, all of whom were studying at the university and shared a passion for blending with Christian themes. Additional early members included David Stuart and Phil Vaughan, contributing to the band's initial sound that mixed , rap, and elements. The name A-180 reflected the band's modest beginnings as what the members thought would be a short-lived summer project, with plans to pursue teaching careers after graduation. However, their enthusiasm for music led them to perform regularly at campus events and local youth gatherings, gradually expanding their reach. By 1987, they had solidified their identity as A-180 following a notable performance at a youth rally, which helped refine their energetic stage presence and audience engagement. Throughout the late 1980s, A-180 built a dedicated regional fanbase through efforts, playing over 100 shows in , , and nearby states at churches, youth conferences, and small venues within communities. These performances emphasized high-energy sets that appealed to young audiences seeking alternative expressions of through music. The band's commitment to live shows fostered word-of-mouth growth, establishing them as a promising act in the emerging scene. In 1989, A-180 self-released their debut independent cassette You Turn, a limited-run project recorded to capture their live vibe and share with local supporters. This was followed in 1990 by another cassette, Reaper's Train, which further showcased their evolving songwriting and production skills on a shoestring budget. These releases, distributed primarily at gigs and through personal networks, marked the band's first steps toward documenting their music and gauging interest beyond campus circles.

Record deal and debut albums (1991–1993)

In late 1991, after submitting a demo tape featuring the song "My God" that was hand-delivered to ForeFront Records executives by dc Talk member Toby McKeehan, the band—previously known as A-180—secured a record deal with the label. As a condition of the signing, ForeFront required a name change to better capture the group's high-energy sound, inspired by keyboardist Bob Herdman's enthusiastic description of their music as "audio adrenaline" during an early rehearsal session. This transition marked their entry into the professional Christian music industry, with the core lineup at the time consisting of vocalist Mark Stuart, guitarist Barry Blair, bassist Will McGinniss, and Herdman on keyboards. The band's self-titled debut album, Audio Adrenaline, was released on April 17, 1992, through . The record featured a mix of rock, , and hip-hop influences, with the band self-producing two tracks while Steve Griffith handled production on the remaining nine songs. Standout single "My God" gained early traction on , helping establish their presence in the genre despite the album's modest initial sales. Building on this foundation, Audio Adrenaline released their second album, Don't Censor Me, on October 1, 1993, also via ForeFront. The project showcased a maturing sound with bolder lyrical challenges to cultural norms, including the track "Big House," which began receiving notable radio airplay and contributed to growing fan interest. Around this period, the lineup stabilized further with the addition of drummer Brian Hayes, solidifying their rhythm section for live performances. Early tours reinforced their grassroots momentum, as the band opened for established Christian acts like & The Distance on their first major national outing in 1991, handling roadie duties and van driving to build experience. By 1993, they had progressed to supporting on theater tours, while steady radio growth for tracks like "My God" expanded their audience beyond college circuits.

Breakthrough and mainstream success (1994–1999)

Following the moderate success of their debut albums, Audio Adrenaline achieved significant commercial and critical recognition in the mid-1990s with the release of Bloom in 1996. Produced by John Hampton, the album marked a stylistic shift toward a more straightforward sound infused with elements, departing from the band's earlier rap-rock fusion. It debuted at No. 56 on the and No. 6 on the Christian Albums chart, eventually earning RIAA Gold certification for sales exceeding 500,000 copies. Tracks like "I'm Not the King" and "See Through" exemplified this evolution, blending raw guitar riffs and introspective lyrics with the band's signature energetic delivery. The band's momentum continued with Some Kind of Zombie in 1997, which peaked at No. 20 on the Christian Albums chart and further solidified their presence in (CCM). This album reinforced their direction while incorporating playful, metaphorical themes in songs addressing . Audio Adrenaline's rising profile led to multiple accolades, including the 1996 for Long Form Music Video of the Year for their "Big House" video and CCM Magazine's designation of "Big House" as the Song of the Decade for the . By the late , the group had collectively sold over 500,000 s, establishing them as a leading act in . Capping this era, arrived in 1999, peaking at No. 8 on the Christian Albums chart and featuring the anthemic single "Hands and Feet." The song's call to active faith inspired the formation of the Hands and Feet Project, a initiative focused on aiding orphans in , reflecting the band's growing emphasis on social impact alongside their music. Audio Adrenaline headlined major Christian festivals like Creation during this period, drawing large crowds and expanding their influence through extensive touring. These achievements positioned the band as pioneers in blending mainstream rock appeal with Christian messaging, contributing to the broader mainstreaming of CCM in the late 1990s.

Final original-era albums and disbandment (2000–2007)

Following the success of their mid-1990s releases, Audio Adrenaline entered a transitional phase with their original lineup, marked by continued creativity amid emerging personal challenges for lead vocalist Mark Stuart. Their sixth studio album, Lift, was released on November 20, 2001, by . The record featured an energetic sound with memorable hooks and full-throttle guitars, earning praise for its lyrical depth and musical dynamism. It achieved gold certification from the RIAA, reflecting sustained fan support. In 2003, the band delivered Worldwide, their seventh studio album, also on , which returned to their rock 'n' roll roots with prominent guitar riffs and solos. The album won the 2004 Grammy Award for Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album, highlighting its impact in the genre. Notable tracks included "Dirty," a high-energy rocker infused with hip-hop flavor in its rhythmic structure and bold lyrical call to embrace faith unreservedly. During this period, Stuart began experiencing significant vocal strain, which first became noticeable around 1998 and progressively worsened, affecting his performance capabilities. By the recording of Worldwide, the issues were evident, leading to reliance on treatments like steroid shots and contributions from Tyler Burkum on vocals. These challenges culminated in a diagnosis of , a causing involuntary spasms in the , confirmed shortly after the band's activities concluded. Audio Adrenaline's eighth and final studio album with the original lineup, Until My Heart Caves In, arrived on August 30, 2005, via . The 11-track release blended passionate rock elements with expressive songwriting, though Stuart's reduced vocal presence due to his condition lent it a bittersweet tone. Critics noted the album's zestful guitar work and thematic resilience, positioning it as a poignant capstone. The band embarked on a farewell tour to support the record, performing with acts like Pillar and emphasizing their legacy through hits and new material. On January 18, , Audio Adrenaline announced their retirement from active music ministry, attributing the decision primarily to Stuart's ongoing vocal cord damage from , which rendered sustained touring and recording untenable. The group undertook a final 35-city tour with later that year, culminating in their last performance on September 15, 2007, at Turtle Bay Resort in , captured for the live album Live from Hawaii: The Farewell Concert. Drummer Ben Cissell and other members transitioned to side projects and personal endeavors following the disbandment, closing the original era after nearly two decades.

Reformation and final tours (2012–2017)

In 2012, Audio Adrenaline reformed after a five-year hiatus, with bassist Will McGinniss as the sole original member returning to lead the revival. Joining him were , the former lead vocalist of , who took over as the band's frontman, along with guitarist Dave Ghazarian, drummer Jared Byers, and keyboardist Jason Walker. The reformation was driven by a renewed commitment to the band's longstanding Hands and Feet Project, focusing on orphan care and missions work, rather than a full return to the original lineup. The reformed group released their comeback album, Kings & Queens, on March 12, 2013, via . Produced by Seth Mosley, the record featured the lead single "Kings and Queens," which emphasized themes of empowerment and , aligning with the band's humanitarian efforts. The album marked a fresh sound blending rock with pop influences, receiving positive reception for revitalizing the band's energy while honoring their legacy. Lineup changes continued in the years following, with departing in June 2014 after over 150 performances, citing a desire to pursue solo projects; he was replaced by Josh Engler, former lead singer of the band Abandon. By early 2015, further shifts occurred, including the addition of Adam Agee (previously of ) as lead vocalist, alongside new members Brandon Bagby, Dave Stovall, and Jack Campbell, as McGinniss stepped back from active touring. This iteration released Sound of the Saints on May 4, 2015, produced by Seth Mosley, which included the title track single and continued the band's focus on inspirational rock. In 2017, Audio Adrenaline embarked on a tour commemorating the 25th anniversary of their debut album, performing at major Christian music festivals such as the Got Faith Music Festival and others, emphasizing legacy hits and fan engagement without announcing new material. These appearances highlighted the band's enduring impact on contemporary Christian music, drawing crowds for nostalgic sets amid their history of festival staples. Following the tour's conclusion, the group entered an informal period of inactivity, with no further releases or tours announced, effectively marking the end of their active years.

Musical style and influences

Genre evolution and sound

Audio Adrenaline's roots lie in the and punk scenes of the late 1980s, with their early sound incorporating , rap, and hip-hop elements through programmed drum machines and computer-driven production on their 1992 self-titled debut. By their 1993 album Don't Censor Me, produced primarily by Steve Griffith with the Gotee Brothers on select tracks, the band shifted toward a rawer style influenced by the wave of the 1990s, featuring live-sounding guitars, energetic drums, and anthemic choruses that energized their live performances. Will McGinniss has noted the pervasive influence of on the band's sound, contributing to their anthemic, guitar-driven approach. In the mid-1990s, albums like Bloom refined this evolution, emphasizing heavy guitar riffs and dynamic percussion while maintaining a foundation described by guitarist Bob Herdman as a "good time" style akin to . As they entered the , the sound incorporated hip-hop beats and elements. Jason Halbert brought a sleek, contemporary sheen to their output, including the 2001 album Lift, where he handled production alongside Dwayne Larring to enhance the band's rhythmic drive and layered production. Following their 2012 reformation, Audio Adrenaline adopted a more streamlined worship-oriented rock sound infused with pop sensibilities on Kings & Queens (2013), retaining signature energetic drums and guitar riffs but with brighter, accessible choruses suited to larger audiences. This phase preserved their core essence while emphasizing live-friendly, anthemic structures.

Lyrical themes and Christian elements

Audio Adrenaline's lyrics predominantly explore themes of , personal faith struggles, and , often weaving these elements into calls for active Christian living. Songs like "Hands and Feet" emphasize becoming instruments of God's work in the world, drawing from biblical imagery to inspire and missions, as the band has participated in events like crusades to share . Personal faith is depicted through narratives of vulnerability and empowerment, such as in "Underdog," where the protagonist acknowledges human weaknesses but finds strength in divine favor, reflecting 's own experiences as in the music industry. Social justice motifs appear prominently, particularly in advocacy for the marginalized; for instance, "Big House" uses the of a welcoming heavenly home with "lots and lots of room" to symbolize God's inclusive family and spiritual adoption, inviting listeners regardless of their background. The band's songwriting incorporates humor and to make profound spiritual concepts accessible and engaging. In "Some Kind of Zombie," the employ a to illustrate spiritual awakening and transformation, portraying the believer as "dead" to and worldly influences yet vibrantly alive in Christ, inspired by Colossians 3's call to surrender one's life to . This playful yet pointed imagery underscores the radical shift from a life dominated by to one devoted to divine purpose, using vivid, narrative-driven language to convey redemption without overt preachiness. Early tracks like "DC-10" add levity through zany, exaggerated scenarios, blending fun with subtle reminders to appeal to younger audiences. Explicit Christian references in Audio Adrenaline's music are balanced with universal appeal, avoiding alienation of non-believers by focusing on relatable human experiences infused with hope and joy. Tracks maintain an honest tone about faith's challenges while emphasizing God's reliability, as seen in their collaborative aim to motivate through energetic, non-confrontational messages. This approach allows songs to resonate broadly, promoting through invitation rather than condemnation. The evolution of lyrical themes shows a progression from rebellious energy in early works to a deeper emphasis on service and redemption in later albums. Initial releases feature a punkish critique of complacency, as in "Church Punks," which humorously challenges church mediocrity and calls for authentic renewal. Over time, the focus shifted toward global missions and sacrificial living, evident in songs like "Leaving 99," which draws from Luke 15 to highlight pursuing the lost, and broader commitments to social causes such as orphan care. This maturation reflects the band's growing passion for actionable faith. Songwriting was primarily handled by lead vocalist Mark Stuart and guitarist Barry Blair, who co-founded the band and shaped its thematic core through personal reflections and collaborative input. Their process often drew from real-life inspirations, ensuring lyrics remained grounded in scripture and experience while evolving with the group's ministry focus.

Personnel

Original and core members

Audio Adrenaline was founded in 1986 at in , initially under the name A-180, by vocalist Mark Stuart, guitarist Barry Blair, and bassist Will McGinniss. The band's early incarnation featured additional members including keyboardist David Stuart and drummer Phil Vaughan, who contributed to their self-released cassette before lineup changes solidified the core group. Mark Stuart served as the lead vocalist from 1986 to 2006 and founded the band while serving as its primary songwriter, penning many of the group's signature tracks that defined their energetic sound. His dynamic stage presence and lyrical focus on faith helped propel Audio Adrenaline to mainstream success within . Barry Blair played guitar from 1986 to 1996 and provided background vocals, bringing high-energy performances to the band's live shows that energized audiences and complemented the group's rock-driven style. As a founding member, he was instrumental in shaping the band's initial raw, aesthetic during their formative years. Will McGinniss handled bass duties from 1986 to 2007, making him the longest-serving member of the original era, and he also contributed to production on several albums, including co-founding the band's independent label Flicker Records. His steady work provided the foundational groove for hits like those on Don't Censor Me and Bloom. Bob Herdman joined in 1991 as keyboardist and rhythm guitarist, providing background vocals until his departure in 2001 to focus on Flicker Records. His contributions helped shape the band's sound during their breakthrough albums. Tyler Burkum joined as second guitarist in 1995 and remained until 2007, adding melodic layers and lead guitar elements that evolved the band's sound toward more polished alternative rock arrangements in later releases. His contributions brought fresh technical flair to albums such as Worldwide and Lift. Ben Cissell played drums from 1995 to 2006, delivering a dynamic percussion style that enhanced the band's high-octane live sets and studio recordings during their breakthrough period. His tenure coincided with the group's most commercially successful phase, including Grammy-winning efforts.

Reformation-era members

The reformation of Audio Adrenaline in 2012 featured only one returning member from the original lineup, bassist Will McGinniss, who served from 2012 to 2015 and also contributed to band operations during the revival period. McGinniss, a core member since the band's early days, provided continuity amid significant personnel shifts as the group aimed to resume touring and recording. Lead vocals for the initial reformation phase were handled by Kevin Max, formerly of dc Talk, who joined in 2012 and fronted the band through 2014, infusing their sound with his distinctive vocal style on the album Kings & Queens (2013). In June 2014, Max departed to pursue solo projects, and Josh Engler, previously the frontman of the Christian rock band Abandon, temporarily took over lead vocals for the remainder of that year, bringing an energetic, indie-influenced performance approach to live shows. By early 2015, Adam Agee, former lead singer of Stellar Kart, assumed the role of lead vocalist and guitarist, continuing through the band's final tours until 2017 and contributing to the 2015 release Sound of the Saints. The supporting lineup evolved alongside these changes. In 2012, the band included keyboardist and vocalist Jason Walker, guitarist Dave Ghazarian (from Superchick), and drummer Jared Byers; Ghazarian and Walker left after 2013, with guitarist Dwayne Larring joining briefly in 2013–2015. From 2014 onward, the core touring ensemble stabilized with guitarist Brandon Bagby and drummer Jack Campbell, while McGinniss's departure in 2015 led to bassist Dave Stovall (also providing vocals) joining for the final years. This fluid roster enabled over 150 performances during the revival, emphasizing mission-driven tours tied to the band's Hands and Feet Project.

Associated projects

Hands and Feet Project

The Hands and Feet Project was founded in the summer of 2004 by the members of the band Audio Adrenaline, inspired by the fan response to their song "Hands and Feet" from the 2001 album . The initiative began as a response to the band's desire to address the needs of orphaned and abandoned children in , starting with the purchase of land in to establish a dedicated children's village. Led initially by band co-founders Mark Stuart and Will McGinniss, the project quickly expanded from a single home to a comprehensive focused on . The organization's core mission is to provide family-style residential care for vulnerable children in while prioritizing family preservation and sustainable community solutions to combat the orphan crisis. This includes operating children's villages that offer safe housing, nutritional support, and holistic development in the children's cultural context, aiming to break cycles of and abandonment. Key initiatives encompass the construction and maintenance of multiple residential homes in and surrounding areas, alongside programs for education, vocational training, and efforts. Additional efforts involve community-based daycares, such as the Little Hands initiative, which supports at-risk families to prevent , with each center serving 20-28 children through early childhood care and parental aid. Audio Adrenaline members played a direct role in the project's early growth, incorporating fundraising into their concert tours and embarking on volunteer trips to for on-site construction and awareness-raising. Notably, lead singer Mark Stuart and guitarist Barry Blair participated in multiple visits, helping to build and engage supporters through and mission-focused events. These activities not only raised funds but also mobilized a network of volunteers and donors, amplifying the project's reach during the band's active years. Following Audio Adrenaline's disbandment in 2007, the Hands and Feet Project has operated independently as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, continuing its work amid challenges like the and ongoing instability. As of 2025, the organization sustains operations across ; as of 2023, it supported 312 children and families annually through , family support programs, and community interventions, with a focus on empowering local leaders for enduring impact.

Solo endeavors and collaborations

After retiring from performing due to , former Audio Adrenaline Mark Stuart pursued writing as a primary creative outlet, releasing the Losing My Voice to Find It: How a Rockstar Discovered His Greatest Purpose in 2019, which chronicles his personal faith journey and transition away from music performance. The book, co-authored with Roger W. Thompson, emphasizes themes of purpose and resilience amid vocal challenges. Stuart also co-founded the independent record label Flicker Records in 1998 alongside bandmates Will McGinniss and Bob Herdman, which focused on developing emerging artists. Guitarist Barry Blair, who left Audio Adrenaline in 1996, shifted toward production and solo instrumental work, contributing as a on albums such as Bleach's Static (2001) and maintaining an active role in film scoring and audio engineering. His solo releases include the acoustic-leaning instrumental single Reckless Love (2018), featuring covers and original tracks with a focus, and Junction City (2019), blending and rock elements. Blair has also released collaborative singles like "Down in the Lowlands" (2020) with Thomas Smith, showcasing his guitar-driven arrangements. Bassist Will McGinniss, an original member who remained with Audio Adrenaline through its 2017 disbandment, co-founded Flicker Records with Stuart and Herdman, serving as a key figure in artist development and for the label's rock roster. Post-band, McGinniss continued session work in production. During Audio Adrenaline's active years, he contributed to live performances alongside artists like . During Audio Adrenaline's reformation era, served as lead vocalist from 2012 to 2014 before returning to solo endeavors; his post-2014 releases include the conceptual album The Great American Novel (2019), exploring social and spiritual themes through Christian pop, and the collaborative EP Plans (2019) with . also participated in reunions, such as the group's 25th anniversary performances in 2017, bridging his Audio Adrenaline tenure with earlier collaborations. Keyboardist Josh Engler, who joined Audio Adrenaline in 2003 and departed in 2006, released his debut solo EP in , a five-track project reflecting on personal and philosophical introspection after a hiatus from recording. Audio Adrenaline members engaged in cross-group collaborations throughout the and , including joint tours like the 1996 "Freak Tour" with , where they shared stages and influenced each other's fanbases in the scene.

Discography

Studio albums

Audio Adrenaline's studio albums represent the core of their discography, capturing the band's energetic sound from their early days through their original run and . The debut effort established their fusion of rock, rap, and , while subsequent releases refined their style with increasing production polish and radio-friendly hooks. Over their career, these albums achieved notable success on charts, with several earning certifications and awards for their impact. The band's first album, Audio Adrenaline, released in 1992 by , served as their introduction to the scene. Their second release, Don't Censor Me (1993, ), included tracks that laid the groundwork for future hits like "Big House," blending raw energy with thematic depth on and . Bloom (1996, ) marked a breakthrough, peaking at No. 2 on the Christian album charts and certified by the RIAA for sales of 500,000 copies, thanks to polished production and singles that resonated widely in the genre. The follow-up, Some Kind of Zombie (1997, ), won a for its title track in the Modern Rock Recorded Song of the Year category, highlighting the band's innovative approach to lyrical metaphors of . Subsequent albums continued to build on this momentum: (1999, ), Lift (2001, ), Worldwide (2003, ), and Until My Heart Caves In (2005, ) each explored themes of faith, mission, and perseverance, contributing to the band's Grammy nominations and sustained popularity in . After a hiatus, the reformed lineup returned with Kings & Queens (2013, ), which peaked at No. 4 on the Christian Albums chart and signaled a fresh chapter with updated personnel and production. Their final studio album, Sound of the Saints (2015, ), topped the Christian Albums chart.

Live and compilation albums

Audio Adrenaline's live and compilation albums provide snapshots of their high-energy performances and career-spanning hits, often tying into key moments like initiatives and band transitions. Live from Hawaii: The Farewell Concert, released in 2007, captures the band's energetic festival performances, highlighting their raw stage presence and crowd interaction during a pivotal era of touring. The 2001 compilation features a selection of popular tracks alongside new material. Adios: The Greatest Hits, released in 2006, collected the band's signature songs, including rarities and remixes, underscoring their commercial impact in . "Adios: The Final Tour," issued in 2007 following the band's disbandment, documents their farewell live set from the Adios tour, preserving the emotional intensity and fan favorites from their last shows together.

Awards and nominations

Grammy Awards

Audio Adrenaline received a total of six Grammy nominations, including two wins, all in the Best Rock Gospel Album category, spanning from 1997 to 2006. These recognitions affirm the band's prominent role in Christian rock music and their success in achieving crossover appeal beyond traditional gospel audiences. The group first earned a nomination at the 39th Annual Grammy Awards in 1997 for their 1996 album Bloom. Additional nominations followed at the 41st Annual Grammy Awards in 1999 for Some Kind of Zombie (1997 release), the 42nd in 2000 for Underdog (1999 release), and the 45th in 2003 for Lift (2001 release). Audio Adrenaline achieved their breakthrough wins in consecutive years later in their career. At the in 2004, they won for Worldwide (2003 release), marking a pivotal moment after several prior nominations. Their second victory came at the in 2006 for Until My Heart Caves In (2005 release).
Year (Ceremony)CategoryAlbumOutcome
1997 (39th)Best Rock AlbumBloomNomination
1999 (41st)Best Rock AlbumSome Kind of Nomination
2000 (42nd)Best Rock AlbumNomination
2003 (45th)Best Rock AlbumLiftNomination
2004 (46th)Best Rock AlbumWorldwideWin
2006 (48th)Best Rock AlbumUntil My Heart Caves InWin

GMA Dove Awards

Audio Adrenaline garnered significant recognition from the Gospel Music Association (GMA) through its , particularly in the rock category, which solidified their status as a premier band during the late and early . The group was nominated for Rock Album of the Year for Bloom (1996) at the 28th Annual . They won Modern Rock/Alternative Recorded Song of the Year for "Some Kind of " (1997) at the 29th Annual in 1998. Additional victories included Long Form Music Video of the Year for "Big House" in 1996 and Rock Recorded Song of the Year for "Get Down" in 2000. In 2003, at the 34th Annual , they won Rock Album of the Year for Lift (2001) and Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year for "Ocean Floor." Over the course of their original tenure, Audio Adrenaline accumulated more than 20 Dove Award nominations, including consecutive nods for Group of the Year from 1998 to 2000. In total, the band secured five Dove Award wins, with no further victories following their 2007 disbandment. These accolades underscored their dominance in the genre, highlighting innovative songwriting and high-energy performances that resonated widely within the faith-based music community.

References

  1. https://docradio.org/bio/Audio-Adrenaline
  2. http://www.hallels.com/artists/audio-adrenaline/
  3. https://www.life885.com/artists/audio-adrenaline/
  4. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/audio-adrenaline-reboots-with-ex-dc-talk-singer-new-single-label-1083801/
  5. https://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Audio_Adrenaline_The_bestselling_pop_rockers_In_The_Dirt/7162/p1/
  6. https://grammy.com/artists/audio-adrenaline/15782
  7. https://handsandfeetproject.org/
  8. https://www.klove.com/faith/news/positive-people/nashvilles-will-mcginniss-co-founder-of-the-hands-and-feet-project-helping-orphans-in-haiti-andpodcast-56436
  9. https://www.discogs.com/artist/230207-Audio-Adrenaline
  10. https://klrc.com/music/artists/audio-adrenaline
  11. http://thechristianmusicreview.blogspot.com/2012/05/band-bio-audio-adrenaline.html
  12. https://cbn.com/article/not-selected/audio-adrenaline-goodbye-old-friends-0
  13. https://www.ccmencyclopedia.com/post/audio-adrenaline
  14. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/audio-adrenaline-begin-new-chapter-with-pop-tinged-kings-queens-1551812/
  15. https://www.cbn.com/entertainment/music/carpenter_audio_adrenaline.asp
  16. https://www.ccmencyclopedia.com/post/audio-adrenaline-1992
  17. https://girdermusic.com/blogs/music-news/audio-adrenaline-dont-censor-me-coming-to-vinyl
  18. https://wow-series.fandom.com/wiki/Audio_Adrenaline
  19. https://news.pollstar.com/1998/04/27/audio-adrenaline-2/
  20. https://music.apple.com/us/artist/audio-adrenaline/633328
  21. https://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Audio_Adrenaline_A_new_lineup_and_a_new_hit_album_from_the_CCM_band/56335/p1/
  22. https://cbn.com/article/not-selected/audio-adrenaline
  23. https://www.toledoblade.com/news/religion/2006/01/28/Innovative-band-Audio-Adrenaline-to-tell-fans-Adios/stories/200601280017
  24. https://www.spokesman.com/stories/1998/mar/26/adrenaline-rush-christian-rock-sensation-audio/
  25. https://christianmusic.com/audio_adrenaline/audio_adrenaline.htm
  26. https://www.christianmusicarchive.com/artist/audio-adrenaline
  27. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/audio-adrenaline
  28. https://www.newreleasetoday.com/albumdetail.php?album_id=229
  29. https://www.newreleasetoday.com/albumdetail.php?album_id=268
  30. https://www.newreleasetoday.com/albumdetail.php?album_id=267
  31. https://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/products/Audio_Adrenaline/14189/
  32. https://www.goupstate.com/story/news/2006/11/11/final-tour-for-audio-adrenaline/29382578007/
  33. https://open.spotify.com/album/3lr9emw5TXMxwZdIMIbypr
  34. https://www.christiantoday.com/news/audio-adrenaline-reforming-with-kevin-max
  35. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/interviews/AudioAdrenaline2012.asp
  36. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/cdreviews/KingsandQueens.asp
  37. https://www.christianmusicarchive.com/album/kings-queens
  38. https://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/news/Audio_Changes/53916/p1/
  39. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/interviews/AudioAdrenaline2014.asp
  40. https://freeccm.com/2016/02/19/hear-the-story-behind-audio-adrenalines-new-single-sound-of-the-saints/
  41. https://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Audio_Adrenaline_The_Nashvillebased_crossover_act/40493/p1/
  42. https://www.encyclopedia.com/people/literature-and-arts/music-popular-and-jazz-biographies/audio-adrenaline
  43. https://www.discogs.com/release/5114506-Audio-Adrenaline-Dont-Censor-Me
  44. https://www.tampabay.com/archive/2003/11/25/more-in-the-name-of-love/
  45. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/interviews/AudioA.asp
  46. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/concerts/AudioARCBHS06.asp
  47. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/news/August01.asp
  48. https://www.newreleasetoday.com/albumdetail.php?album_id=12403
  49. http://christianmusic.com/audio_adrenaline/audio_adrenaline.htm
  50. https://studiojakemedia.wordpress.com/2022/10/09/audio-adrenaline-some-kind-of-zombie-music-review/
  51. https://www.discogs.com/artist/9936517-A-180
  52. https://www.newreleasetoday.com/albumdetail.php?album_id=2796
  53. https://www.markstuartmedia.com/
  54. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/audio-adrenaline-mn0000760389
  55. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/artists/audioadrenaline.asp
  56. https://www.newreleasetoday.com/news_detail.php?newsid=625
  57. https://www.ccmmagazine.com/news/audio-adrenaline-announces-new-lead-vocalist/
  58. https://missionfinder.org/organizations/the-hands-and-feet-project/
  59. https://www.passionaries.com/hands_and_feet_project.htm
  60. https://pulitzercenter.org/stories/hands-and-feet-project-battles-haitis-orphan-crisis
  61. https://www.facebook.com/hafproject/posts/why-are-we-opening-8-new-daycares-in-haiti-lets-look-at-the-facts-each-of-our-da/1092483589589932/
  62. https://gospelmusic.org/news/news-the-hands-feet-project-remembers-the-haiti-earthquake-five-years-ago-today
  63. https://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/news/Hands_And_Feet_Project/58437/p1/
  64. https://lifeandleadership.com/book-summaries/audio-adrenaline-hands-and-feet/
  65. https://www.youthworker.com/hands-feet-project-in-haiti-devastated/
  66. https://www.guidestar.org/profile/20-1368997
  67. https://www.amazon.com/Losing-My-Voice-Find-Discovered/dp/1400213290
  68. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44442021-losing-my-voice-to-find-it
  69. https://rateyourmusic.com/artist/barry-blair/credits/
  70. https://music.apple.com/us/album/junction-city-single/1479245174
  71. https://music.apple.com/us/album/reckless-love-feat-jeremy-zeller-single/1436980742
  72. https://www.linkedin.com/in/willmcginniss
  73. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/concerts/AudioANYCRelientK06.asp
  74. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/artists/KevinMax.asp
  75. https://www.sacurrent.com/music/former-audio-adrenaline-and-abandon-frontman-josh-engler-releases-debut-indie-pop-ep-19912941/
  76. https://www.riaa.com/gold-platinum/?tab_active=default-award&ar=Audio+Adrenaline&ti=Bloom#search_section
  77. https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/cdreviews/LiveFromHawaiiTheFarewellConcert.asp
  78. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3163746/awards/
  79. https://grammy.com/awards/46th-annual-grammy-awards
  80. https://www.christianpost.com/news/grammy-winner-audio-adrenaline-blown-by-god-s-faithfulness.html
  81. https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2000/04/22/chapman-dominates-dove-awards/62201685007/
  82. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/2003-dove-awards-winners-71570/
  83. https://cmnexus.org/profiles/Audio_Adrenaline
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.