Matt Durlin

I grew up with a deep love and passion for the Christian grunge and alternative rock scene in the 1990s. That passion for music continued as a DJ for multiple college radio stations, including at Messiah College in Pennsylvania. I've had the honour to talk Trevor McNevan (Thousand Foot Krutch), Kevin Max (dc Talk) and Mark Lee (Third Day). Before joining the Rock On Purpose team, I wrote for New Release Today as Rock News Writer. I'm excited to share this love of great, deeply powerful music with the rock and roll community.

Newsboys United to Headline Winter Jam 2019

on October 9, 2018October 9, 2018 By Matt Durlin

Winter Jam’s 2019 blockbuster lineup continues with GRAMMY-nominated former American Idol finalist Danny Gokey; GRAMMY-winning recording artist and "Overcomer" hitmaker Mandisa; Northern Ireland's "Count Every Blessing" worshippers Rend Collective; Skillet drummer and female solo rocker LEDGER; GRAMMY-nominated tour creators and hosts NewSong; and Dove Award-nominated Gotee recording artist Hollyn. In addition, the Pre-Jam Party is slated to feature hip-hop recording artist Ty Brasel; rockers Manic Drive; singer/songwriter Dan Bremnes; and special guest former Stellar Kart and Audio Adrenaline frontman Adam Agee. The tour will also include a Gospel presentation from Dare2Share speakers Greg Stier or Zane Black.

As We Ascend Invite More ‘Label Executives’ Ahead of Recording Sophomore Album

on October 7, 2018October 8, 2018 By Matt Durlin

In 2016 when As We Ascend began preparations to record their first studio album, Farewell To Midnight, the band founded by former members of We As Human invited fans to become the recording label as "label executives." The time has come for round 2.

Three Days Grace Shares Musical Bonds With Kenyan Tribe

on October 7, 2018October 11, 2018 By Matt Durlin

It is often said that music is a universal language, connecting people from different corners of the earth despite language and cultural barriers. Two members of Canadian post-grunge and alternative rock band Three Days Grace recently experienced this phenomenon firsthand on a trip to Kenya.

Tooth & Nail Announces Record Deal With Mike Mains and The Branches

on October 6, 2018October 6, 2018 By Matt Durlin 1 Comment

Tooth & Nail Records has announced the signing of Michigan-based American pop/rock band Mike Mains & The Branches to the label family.

Members of Righteous Vendetta and Alder Lights form Linkin Park Tribute Project, Wretches and Kings

on October 6, 2018October 6, 2018 By Matt Durlin

When Linkin Park lead singer Chester Bennington passed away in July 2017, friends Ryan Hayes (Righteous Vendetta) and Marcus Barkac (Alder Lights) began to set into motion an idea for a cover band to honor the legends.

Righteous Vendetta Added to 2019 City Rockfest Tour Lineup

on October 6, 2018October 6, 2018 By Matt Durlin 1 Comment

Righteous Vendetta joins Zahna on the City Rockfest lineup for 2019.

Fierce Courage: ‘Hope for the Broken’ by Convictions

on October 5, 2018October 5, 2018 By Matt Durlin 1 Comment

Convictions' Hope for the Broken is an emotionally intense experience for those suffering from anxiety and heartache, songs which will bring a sense of spiritual peace, rest and hope.

P.O.D. Announces Full Circle Tour This Fall

on October 5, 2018October 5, 2018 By Matt Durlin

Sonny Sandoval and his P.O.D. bandmates are hitting the road for the Full Circle Tour in support of their forthcoming album this fall.

Thrice’s ‘Palms’ Debuts Atop Charts

on October 2, 2018October 2, 2018 By Matt Durlin

Alternative rock band Thrice is impacting charts in a big way with their latest release, Palms. According to an article published by Billboard.com and shared on Facebook, Palms "debuts atop Billboard's Alternative Albums and Hard Rock Albums charts with 18,000 equivalent album units earned." The article states that "Palms is the group's second total and [...]