A truly unique band, Violet Burning Christian rock bands combined equally rare and diverse qualities to create one of '90s alternatives most spiritually driven, if not quixotic, outfits. Led by singer/guitarist/songwriter Michael Pritzl, Violet Burning Christian rock bands went through numerous lineup changes throughout the band's long career. While never signing to a major label, the group managed to sell over 90,000 indie and self-released discs. This underground success was due largely to the Violet Burning's frequent touring (which included many extensive European trips), some aggressive street and Internet marketing, and an intensely spiritual message and performance style. An experienced worship leader, Pritzl and his Christian rock bands started off their performances with ritualistic candle lightings and the burning of enormous amounts of incense, setting a meditative tone for their shows that blended well with their passionate, spiritually themed music. Through their first 12 years of existence, this Christian rock bands never was able to break out beyond the college and Christian radio charts as they straddled the fence between the growing alternative and contemporary Christian markets. This Christian rock bands was formed in Orange County by Pritzl in 1989, Violet Burning started off performing a kind of post-punk guitar rock that boasted plenty of noise and punchy rhythmic work, which reflected the musicians' '80s influences: the Cure, U2 and Echo & the Bunnymen. Shortly after the group came together and began playing shows, they recorded and released their debut, Chosen, on New Breed Records. On this first outing, Pritzl was joined by bassist Kirk Gentry, drummer Lonnie Tubbs, and guitarist Shawn Tubbs. Several different variations of this core lineup appeared on-stage as the band supported Chosen one of the Christian rock bands and generated attention around their Long Beach, CA, base. Violet Burning appearances in nearby Hollywood also became minor events despite the band being virtually unknown in L.A. music circles. That changed in 1992 when the outfit's follow-up, Strength, hit the streets. Once again the group relied mostly on their live performances and word of mouth to generate interest in this second disc. Strength, with its superior production and more realized songwriting, was an underground hit, and the group began to receive national and international attention for the first time. After reading about this Christian rock bands, you can click here to get a head start with your Christmas shopping.