Fireflight

Fireflight first gained traction on Christian rock radio after joining the Flicker Records roster in 2006, following a pair of self-released projects. The Orlando-based quintet, whose sound leans into heavier territory that edges toward metal, drew frequent comparisons to other female-fronted rock acts such as Paramore and Evanescence. The group, originally formed in Eustis in 1999, maintains a rigorous touring schedule that has been estimated at roughly 140 performances annually across the United States. Its lineup consists of vocalist Dawn Richardson, guitarists Justin Cox and Glenn Drennen, bassist Wendy Drennen, and drummer Phee Shorb.

The band’s independent debut, Glam-Rok, appeared in 2002 and was produced by Cox. Two years later the five-song EP On the Subject of Moving Forward secured a deal with Flicker. Their first release for the label, The Healing of Harms, was helmed by Skidd Mills and climbed to number 37 on the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart while establishing the group as a force in the Christian rock scene. Two singles from the album, “You Decide” and “Waiting,” found substantial airplay, with the latter reaching number 27 on the Billboard Hot Christian Songs chart.

Unbreakable, issued in 2008 and produced by Rob Hawkins, improved on that showing by peaking at number 15 on the Top Christian Albums tally. Its title track, boosted by placement in the Bionic Woman television series, rose to number 20 on the Hot Christian Songs chart and earned a 2009 Dove Award nomination. The band’s third studio album, For Those Who Wait, followed the next year.