Inside the Outside
Four years ago, the members of Inside the Outside caught a break when the rookie band was asked to open for a major national act. Hoping to make the most of the opportunity, the Tampa-based foursome wanted to record a demo to sell at the show, though they had no money. They solved their dilemma with a big carwash, working all day until they had enough money to record five songs and manufacture 100 resale cassettes. The hard work paid off as the group sold every single tape they made, and Inside the Outside never had to wash another car again.
Formed in college, Inside the Outside has performed throughout the southeast for over four years in support of their self-released, self-titled debut. During this time, Inside the Outside has opened for groups like Jars of Clay, Steven Curtis Chapman, Avalon, the Waiting, and All Star United, in addition to performing at pro sporting games for the Mutiny at Tampa (Houlihan) Stadium and the Storm at the Ice Palace. The group also enjoys local radio support from Spirit 90.5 FM.
Their pop-rock sound - perfect for fans of Vertical Horizon and Nine Days - won the group a solid fanbase and highly visible profile. Accomplishing so much on their own, Inside the Outside became the interest of several record labels, although the group eventually signed with Aluminum Records. Their label debut, to be released June 2001, will be produced by Aluminum president Brian Hardin.
Inside the Outside's strongest appeal comes from their irresistible pop hooks and a relatable lyrical perspective. Vocalist von dem Bussche remarks, "We try to write songs that reflect our own life experiences because we want our songs to relate to people on both sides of the church doors. We play a lot of church youth functions, and a part of our ministry is definitely encouraging Christians. However, sometimes it seems like we are merely preaching to the choir. We feel God has been preparing us to be more evangelistic with non-Christians, which is why our songs, while spiritual, also deal with life in a way that most everyone can relate."
The group's strong lyrical appeal arises from their high standards for songwriting. "Musically, we want to strive for excellence," continues von dem Bussche. "There are too many Christian bands that are inferior to anything in the general market. We want to perform with the excellence expected of a general market band, but we will do so without compromising the message of the songs." |
