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In 2001 the band FORERUNNER was formed with a purpose of applying a message of Holiness
threaded throughout the original God inspired lyrics blended with the vintage sound of classic
rock and a shade of the blues. Ryan Adkins, The lead vocalist and Lead guitarist, along with the
band, stepped into the recording studio in the spring of 2002 intent upon laying down tracks that
would be true to an era of simplicity and the solid sound of the live unhindered music of that era.
Twelve continuous hours of work spawned their first album entitled "Etched In Stone." This
record is not the typical, but ten songs done virtually in one take, and some of which, mirroring
the so called "long songs" of rock and rolls past at over seven minutes in length.
The ministry of the group has spent time all across the state, and surrounding states, at youth
functions, church services, and festivals pouring themselves out in obedience to God's call. The
connection produced from the mixture of these two languages of theology and melody has
experienced many transformed lives for the kingdom of God and many more to come.
The band has played such events as “Ichthus,” “The Alrosa Villa,” Whiskey Dicks,” and many
other venues in between!
Ryan Adkins (lead vocals & guitars) is originally from Magnolia, Ohio, near Canton, where he
has been involved in a variety of eleven different bands in eighteen years. He has written and
produced most of the music they perform and is a graduate of Ohio Christian University having
received a degree in Christian Ministries and Music. He is now working on a Masters in Divinity
from Wesley Biblical Seminary. Ryan was diagnosed in 2007 with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. He
had a very large tumor in his chest that stopped their summer tour while he underwent 3
surgeries, 6 months of chemotherapy and 20 radiation treatments. Only by the grace of God he
sings and shares his story with every concert scheduled!
Jeff Lutz is the Percussionist and also sings back up vocals. From Lancaster, Ohio, he has
impacted the group with his classic rock style and successful arrangements. He has played
drums guitar and bass for a combined more than 20 years.
Brian Sponseller is originally from North Canton, Ohio. He received a BA in Christian Ministry
from Ohio Christian University in 2002. In 2006 he completed a Masters in Divinity from Wesley
Biblical Seminary and was ordained in the Churches of Christ in Christian Union. His rhythmic
hooks and intensive lead-work lay a foundation for the group’s originality. In addition to the
guitar work, he provides a high tenor harmony to help complete FORERUNNER.
The group has extended its abilities with the opening of Forerunner Recording Studio and has
begun work with award winning songwriter Randy Thomas, known producer/songwriter Ricky B.
Rogers, and Christian music legend, Bryan Duncan. This project will produce a new album
which likely will also include award winning producer and guitarist Tony Palacios. The band has
been working with him and The Sound Kitchen over the past few months. You can check out
several demos from this album at the links listed below. FORERUNNER has begun scheduling
dates to promote this upcoming project titled “Worldview.”
Music and more info: www.soundclick.com/forerunnerus
Until then they maintain that, FORERUNNER is a band that believes the music and the
message should be worthy of the One who inspired it.
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