Hello Industry

Reviewed by Tom Lennie

Though formed in 1999, this is the debut album from this Illinois-based band. Nathan and co play melodic, ear-pleasing pop rock interlaced with a few slower ballads. The band gel together well, influenced as they are by the likes of U2 and Coldplay. Peterson has a strong, pleasant voice, leading on all tracks, each of which he authored. Lyrics are thoughtful, non-clichéd and overtly spiritual. You could easily form the impression that they're too negative - one song is titled "Judas", another (the powerful title track) relates a conversation with the Devil and yet another a convo with the flesh. But this is simply a reflection of NPB's openness; their desire to tackle real-life issues. Thus, track nine opens; "I love you with half of my heart, with half of my soul/I serve you with some of my strength, and part of my all". How many of us, in all honesty, can relate to that! A couple of tracks, namely "Our King Has Come" and more especially "Our God Is Amazing", are pure worship - and how. Another track is a reflection on the sacrifice of Christ, spoken in the first person singular - "It's For You". - Cross Rhythms Radio, UK

Reviewed by Mike Severe

Nathan Peterson Band is fantastic! Their heart for God and for lifting him up was evident. Thank you for leading us into the presence of God during worship. Many youth pastors said this was the best worship experience at our camp since we began over 10 years ago. I agree. As camp director I was very pleased with their communication, creativity, attention to detail and promptness. We loved the way they involved the students in worship through Scripture, action and word. It was a blessing to work with them and their servant's heart was evident from the very beginning to after the camp ended. Thank you also for the concert! The students loved it and I know my youth worship team is learning and playing several of their songs. I would highly recommend Nathan Peterson Band for a retreat, concert or worship experience. This was by far the best overall experience in my ten years leading camps, conferences and retreats. - Illinois State Youth Fellowship

I thoroughly enjoyed the way you guys set the stage/mood for whatever was going to happen during the session. In my opinion, a good worship band (or a good speaker for that matter) functions in such a way that you are enjoying the experience without really realizing why…the band becomes secondary as they push participants toward Someone else. I thought you all did that well in the short time I worked with you… - Ed Uszynski

Hello Industry was a pleasure to work with. Again and again they communicated with actions and word that they were performing at the conference to serve us. I found them to be passionate about the Lord and certainly skilled at leading our audience into worship with the Lord. Our students definitely connected with them as a band and we are looking forward to having them back next year.
- Darin Travis

Hello Industry really blew our conference away! Their musical talent, heart, and ability to minister was super high quality. The feedback from the students has been unbelievably positive! - Larry Conover

Hello Industry is an act that requires introspection. The songs MEAN something, and the lyrics are not merely an afterthought or an excuse for a sing-a-long, although entertainment for entertainment’s sake is not mutually exclusive regarding the band. If you want to CARE about music again, give these records a spin. I encourage everyone to take a slice and enjoy the pie that is Hello Industry.
- Trent Keeling, Advanced Audio and Lighting Systems

Hello Industry is a smart pop alternative band. I hear elements of the Beatles, Coldplay, U2, Muse, and a pop rock sensibility. A nice mix of keyboard and guitar make for an enjoyable listen. I use the words nice and enjoyable because Nathan Peterson's vocals are just that. At a couple of points, he reminds me very much of Neal Morse ("Make Believe"). I sense a "worship" band under the surface, but I could be mistaken.
Strong tracks are "Supposition", my favorite "You", and the ballad/slow rocker "Here Comes The Sun". Overall, this disc deserves radio airplay and repeated listens.
They are on the list vying for the New Band Showcase for Cornerstone 2008. If for no other reason than the complete package, they should be given a chance to play there some place. Not bad for a debut. 8 of 10 clicks - PneumaticTire.us, May 2008

Super chill indie with groovy undertones. Praise music that's not your everyday, squeaky clean, so happy its obnoxious CCM, but real and honest songs that are both relatable and good to listen too.
- John McEntire - HM Magazine