This week’s premieres include the latest from a modern worship band from Edmonton and the debut from an alternative rock band that “casted” out their old name.

Drentch is a four piece concert/worship band based out of Edmonton, Alberta.

Combining explosive guitars with an intense longing for meaning, Drentch captivates the hearts of this generation, drawing them into an unforgettable 21st Century worship experience.

With an “ageless” influence, Drentch currently plays to thousands monthly and are heavily involved in their local church, Bethesda Church, where Mark Steinbrenner (lead vocalist, keyboardist and guitarist) holds a staff position as the generations:united (youth/young adult) pastor and music director.

In one regard, the members and music of VOTA are already familiar to alternative rock faithful, though at the same time, this particular point in time is filled with several groundbreaking firsts. Formerly known as Casting Pearls (but changed to avoid confusion with Casting Crowns), this one time trio of front man/guitarist/songwriter and former newsboyBryan Olesen, bassist Case Maranville and drummer Scott Rutz has expanded to a four piece (now including guitarist/keyboardist Riley Friesen) and redirected its guitar charged rock to incorporate additional dance elements, while subsequently signing with INO Records.

The group’s self-titled debut is loaded with artistic innovation, taking cues from the players’ previous alternative dichotomy, plus additional influences ranging from dance poppers Maroon 5 to ethereal rockers Augustana. Add in a return outing with famed producer Nathan Dantzler (Relient K, Audio Adrenaline, Tree63) and VOTA brilliantly straddles the line of current and timeless. This record squarely aims at the youth/college listener while holding up a mirror to the Gospel and reflecting back the hope and encouragement we have in Christ.

Specially priced at $14.99, VOTA is available now, while Drentch will be available this Tuesday, February 17th at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the February New Music Tuesday poster. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.