Abandon

Christian / Pop / Rock

San Antonio, TX

Billboard

Delivering a message of Truth to penetrate hearts and change lives through a unique alternative rock sound; is what San Antonio based band, Abandon is all about. "We want our music to be an encouragement to everyone and our songs to minister to people's hearts," says Abandon. Using energy filled alternative pop rock music similar to bands like Acceptance, and Anberlin, Abandon believes that their music is not only to be an encouragement to believers, but also to minister to the hearts of non-believers.

Abandon started doing ministry together as worship leaders at their church in San Antonio. During that time, the guys, Josh Engler, Justin Engler, Steven Vela and Dave Vela had the honor of seeing the lives of people changed as they spent time in the presence of God. Being a part of this ministry created a vision to grow their ministry and encourage others as God leads in the form of a national worship band. Abandon is a band that has been preparing for wherever God wants to take them and is ready to go where God leads them. As the band has developed, they have stayed true to their passion for worship and seeing lives changed. The band has found their mission Joshua 22:3 that says, "God has directed us not abandon any brothers". God is leading them to reach out and invest in the lives of others through music. Music can break down the walls of hurt and rejection and touch the heart in a real way. Their concert show reaches a young generation and builds a platform of trust and acceptance. The band then leads their audience into a time of focused worship. It is Abandon's relevant music and honest lyrics that helps them connect with their audience during their show and then again off the stage.

In the summer of 2006, Abandon released a new full-length CD filled with rock songs that have a strong message for the listener. "Who You Are" is not only the title of the CD, but the theme woven throughout. These alternative rock songs point the listener to Christ, who He is and who we are because of Him. Abandon has had the opportunity to travel coast to coast, ministering to students in all capacities. They have made great contributions to many camps, retreats, mission trips and outreach concerts. The songs on "Who You Are" resonate with students that are believers and also students that are seekers.

Young people today want a cause to stand for and Abandon wants to encourage that cause to be Christ and His ways. Many young people are looking for their place in life and are trying to figure out what the point of their life is. Abandon wants to help people find the answer to these questions in Christ. As they find their answers, the audience is challenged to abandon it all for the cause of Christ. God is their focus; He will guide their lives, and become closer than a brother. Helping others live their lives in Christ to the fullest is the message Abandon tries to help others take to heart. A new generation longs to hear messages through rock and alternative music. This is the means Abandon uses to deliver this truth to hearts.