Beyond The Ashes: Making You Want To Go To Heaven

BEYOND THE ASHES CONCERT REVIEW

Roanoke, Texas

February 28, 2014

By Vivian Belknap

“These guys will make you want to go to Heaven,” exclaimed Bob Wills after hearing the first set of music presented by Beyond The Ashes at Dove Creek Café in Roanoke, Texas, February 28, 2014.  They began by singing “So Amazing,” a great song of praise that set into motion an atmosphere of worship.  Then Anthony Facello, the featured tenor and group owner led the crowd as they sang “Amazing Grace.”

“The Coming of the King,” a real toe-tapper featuring David Staton who was filling in as their lead singer really had the audience engaged. This was the first time David had performed with the group. And wow! His energy was contagious to everyone in the café.

We were blessed to hear “Oh Happy Day,” a very familiar song to southern gospel fans, again featuring David.  “Over for Good,” a song with a modern country feel and “God Is So Good,” featured the great tenor voice of Anthony. His range and control easily makes him one of the best tenor singers in Gospel music. 

Anthony then introduced each group member: Casey Shepherd, baritone; Tyler Vestal, pianist and vocalist; David Staton, guest lead vocalist; Anthony Facello, tenor and emcee.  Their energy, both physical and spiritual, was on display with every song. It is very obvious these guys love our Lord and they have made it their mission to go and tell!

The first set was completed with David featured on “Every Knee Shall Bow,” also written by him and recorded by several other artists. Fabulous words: “Bow now, or bow then.”

Every song we heard mentioned Heaven, therefore the comment by Bob Wills at intermission was appropriate: “These guys will make you want to go to Heaven.”

They returned to sing “Glimpse of Your Glory,” another song written by David and “I Can’t Even Walk.” Of course the crowd was singing along on this one too. In fact Anthony had the audience singing often. So it really was a worship experience, not just a concert. Beyond The Ashes has a very unique way of capturing your attention, and holding it to the point that it seems to the listener it’s just you and them.

Another special treat was to hear the piano solo by 22-year-old Tyler Vestal. His talent rivals any pianist in gospel music. In my opinion, he even displayed traits of Howard Goodman, with his hands dancing on the keyboard.  

Beyond The Ashes ended the night by singing “Who Am I,” featuring Tyler, and “No Sin Greater Than Grace,” written by Anthony. This song drove home the strong Gospel message of the love and grace of our Father.

What did we, the audience take away from this concert? Assurance of God’s love, mercy and grace and that Heaven is very clearly in view for those of us who have been born again. There is no doubt that the ministry of Beyond The Ashes is focused on seeing the lost come to Jesus and to bring joy to the body of Christ through their uplifting music and dynamic energy and personalities.  When you have the opportunity to attend one of their concerts, I think you will also leave saying, “These guys will make you want to go to Heaven.”

Beyond The Ashes online: http://www.beyondtheashesonline.com/

Beyond The Ashes on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beyondtheashes