WHITE STONE CROSS
Whitestone Cross announces their first CD - He's a Friend, Music for the Christian Year. Profits from the first 1,000 sold benefit Lake Travis United Methodist Church. CDs can be purchased in the church office or at Whitestone Cross's website. (www.whitestonecross.com)

Austin musicians Lori Griggs, Steve McCarthy, and David and Patty Highland make up Whitestone Cross. The group has been performing together since 2001, having their genesis in unplanned, "pick-up" musical opportunities at their church.  Now that the CD “He’s a Friend” has been released, they’re breaking out from the purely sacred to see what else will grow out of this mix. Celtic tunes, popular music of the past few decades, and 19th century Appalachian and Ozark songs are all likely ingredients for this musical brew. And don’t be surprised if, when you least expect it, you find the sound of a native-American flute carrying you off to some high mesa.

Bringing together a contemporary rhythmic sense, pure and simple string arrangements behind powerful vocals, and an eclectic mix of instruments and musical backgrounds, Whitestone Cross finds its musical direction from “jam session” rehearsals that take full advantage of inspiration and serendipity. The results of this collaboration can grab you when you least expect it.