New Christmas album connects traditions new and old

Winfield, Kan. — A band made up of Southwestern College alumni and friends is releasing an album of live Christmas worship music entitled In the Company of Friends.

The album features rock worship-style variations on Christmas favorites such as “O Come O Come Emmanuel,” “The First Noel,” and “What Child Is This,” as well as newer songs by contemporary artists and original music by band members.

“What makes this project so special is the fact that all of us are friends and family of the college,” said producer and performer on the album, Travis Hastings.

“This specific Christmas album is a chance for the alumni who graduated and were blessed to be a part of Worship Outreach at SC to not only put their training to use, but, more importantly, was a chance to give back and bless the Worship Outreach division at Southwestern.”

Performers on the album include Travis Hastings, Claire Hastings, Sarah Miller, Monica Cooper, Stephen Butler, Isaac Chua, Daniel Miller, Tiffany Rea, Josh Melcher, and Lucas Whippo. Martin Rude, the director of Worship Outreach, assisted in the production of the album.  All songs were recorded during a special live performance on May 26, 2015, in Richardson Auditorium at Southwestern College during the Amp It Up band camp.

CDs cost $15 per copy, or $12 if pre-ordered at www.BeADisciple.com/store before October 16, 2015. The CD will also be available online at www.CDbaby.com and songs will be available for digital download at online retailers such as iTunes and Amazon. Bulk purchasing discounts are available. Groups wanting to sell the CD as a fundraising activity may inquire to Miranda Jones at miranda.jones@sckans.edu.