Because of ACU's Church of Christ background, a capella music has been an important part of university culture. One of ACU's oldest a cappella groups is the A Capella Chorus, directed by Jeff Goolsby. From a young age Goolsby knew that music was "the only thing" he wanted to do. He graduated from ACU in 2001 with a degree in music ... [Read More…]
Switchfoot makes waves with new sound
After several years off, Switchfoot has reemerged with a documentary, tour and a new album, Fading West, which was released this week. The album reflects the year Switchfoot members spent exploring the world's best surfing spots and redefining their identity as a band. The result of this journey is a breezy album that occasionally dips ... [Read More…]
The Optimist Print Edition: 11.15.13
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Switchfoot ‘Fades West’: Band returns to Abilene
Few bands have experienced the long-lasting success of a band like Switchfoot. Founded in 1996 by brothers Jon and Tim Foreman and drummer Chad Butler, Switchfoot has been recording and performing music for almost 20 years. They have survived three record labels, numerous band members and are currently on tour to promote the upcoming release of ... [Read More…]
Perry’s Prism proves see through
Katy Perry gave herself a difficult task in attempting to eclipse the astounding success of her hit album "Teenage Dream." Arriving in the wake of her extremely publicized divorce from Russell Brand, it was inevitable that her sound and message would need to evolve. The result of this effort was "Prism," a genuine, if not shallow, effort to create ... [Read More…]
If life were like a musical
The Department of Theatre put the icing on the Homecoming cake with their production of "Les Misérables," which concluded this weekend. The performance of this classic musical was deeply moving. Through their voices, the cast shared the despair, hope, sorrow and love with the audience. Being an avid lover of musicals, I was anxious to see ... [Read More…]
Instrumental music should be allowed
In part one of this two-part editorial, the Editorial Board discusses why instrumental worship should be implemented in Chapel. Click here to read the opposing argument. It's hard to believe allowing instrumental music in Chapel is still even a debate on ACU's campus when it seems clear that change is needed. As of this year, more than half of the ... [Read More…]
Instrumental music should be allowed
In part one of this two-part editorial, the Editorial Board discusses why instrumental worship should be implemented in Chapel. Click here to read the opposing argument. It's hard to believe allowing instrumental music in Chapel is still even a debate on ACU's campus when it seems clear that change is needed. As of this year, more than half of ... [Read More…]
A capella worship a tradition worth keeping
In part two of this two-part editorial, the Editorial Board explains why the traditional a capella style of worship could be kept in Chapel. Click here to read the opposing argument. We worship God because he is God. True worship is defined by the priority we place on who God is in our lives. We can worship through our words, actions and, ... [Read More…]
Timberlake disappoints with ‘2 of 2’
Justin Timberlake returned this week with the release of the second part of his album, "The 20/20 Experience." The album is anchored by the single "Take Back the Night" a smooth track with hints of disco that has already taken over the radio. "Take Back the Night" is followed by a slew of heavily syncopated songs regarding sex and women ... [Read More…]