FISHERS OF MEN

We begin our look at Inland Northwest teen bands with a collection of four Christian groups. More bands will be featured throughout the summer. If you know of a teen band that should be featured contact us at the numbers or addresses at the bottom of the page.

What happens when a group of musicians with influences ranging from Pink Floyd to DC Talk decide to become a "rockin', praisin', God-fearin' ministry team," writing and performing songs with a message? You might come up with Fishers of Men: "more than just a band, it is a ministry," as stated by the group's mission statement.

"We hope that our music and message will make a huge impact in the lives of teenagers out there," said Josh Wade, group keyboardist and youth pastor of Frontline Youth Church. "Most people are trying to fill this empty hole in their life with temporary things ... junk that only leads to pain, hurting and future scars. The only thing that can fill it is a relationship with Jesus Christ. We don't claim to be theological giants; we just know that God changed our lives and he can change yours, too." Unfortunately, band members' peers don't always share their positive outlook on life. Additionally, the band, which formed this past winter, aims to provide positive entertainment for local youth. "From the nonbelievers, I get a lot of guff, like, `Why do you waste your time singing about God?' and `Hey, do you sing "Jesus Loves Me?" (referring to the children's hymn)," said drummer Tim Samuelson. "But the funny thing is, they still have a respect for me, though they mock me for my beliefs." The band consists of Tim Samuelson, 15, drums; Dustin Cann, 16, lead vocals and rhythm guitar; Matt Kidder, 16, bass; Brandon Humphreys, 20, lead guitar and vocals; and Wade, 26. "Music is my ministry, my gift, and my hobby," said Kidder. "By lifting God up through music, I not only grow closer to him, but I have a total blast doing it." Wade said, "The most amazing thing would be that people would actually come out to see us play. They sing our songs, have fun, dance, and just go crazy," Wade said. "I think that's pretty darn cool." Apparently, their fans think so, too. In addition to weekly local performances, a 13-date tour, taking the band to Moses Lake, the Tri Cities, Wenatchee, Seattle and Portland is planned for July. A performance at the Creation '99 music festival this summer is also a possibility. Until then, the group hopes to promote their CD, but ministry is still the top priority. "Other than God, music is the one thing that I am really passionate about in life,"said Humphreys. "Being able to fuse those two together is an awesome experience." Fishers of Men's CD is titled "Image 37" and can be found at Christian Supply stores, Sower Book Store and Hastings in the Valley.

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