Father Pontifex is back with The Symphony and the Static

If you enjoy good music with a good message, then there's a chance you already know about Father Pontifex. If not, then you're missing out. Father Claude Burns, a.k.a "Pontifex" is a priest from Evansville, Indiana with a talent for spoken word. Father Pontifex says he is dedicated to changing the world, and he is doing so through music, video, and social media.

EVANSVILLE, IN (Catholic Online) - Father Pontifex is launching his most ambitious artistic project today, initiating a campaign on Kickstarter to support The Symphony and the Static. Catholic Online asked Father Pontifex a few questions about his latest project. Enjoy the interview and more importantly, click the link below to support this exciting new project.

COL: Fr. Pontifex, what is the Symphony and the Static?

PONTIFEX: "The Symphony and The Static" is the title and theme of my new project/album.  The Symphony represents everything that is harmonious in life, the beauty we encounter that aids in our transcendence to God.  The Static represents all the suffering, toil and pain we encounter trying to reach the goal of eternal life.  The tension of those two make up the human drama.  This album reflects themes that point to both.  It highlights the beauty of our existence and the struggle as well. 

COL: What is the message you hope to convey and why is it important?

PONTIFEX: The message remains singular, it's all about Jesus Christ and our relationship to Him.  It is also a very complex dynamic that we experience in this life. I try to write from my own experience and struggles with life.  These songs point to what frustrates me, angers me, and bring me down but it also points to what pulls me out of that.  More importantly, who pulls me out of that state.  The message I want to convey is an authentic expression of the drama of life that points to Jesus Christ as the answer. 

COL: What's different about this effort compared to the work you have done previously?

PONTIFEX: The level of quality and production will be the first noticeable difference.  Also, the tracks are very cinematic and filled with classical instrumentation.  I decided to work with producers outside of my network to push the envelope with creativity.  It sounds completely different than my previous music.  It will also have elements of spoken word poetry from me and from a couple of peers.  The sound will be cutting edge and yet classy at the same time.  Classy isn't always a designation people give to hip hop music but I hope to accomplish that. 

COL: How widely do you hope to distribute this message?

PONTIFEX: Because I am a Catholic priest and a pastor I remain an "indie" artist, which is good so I can strike a balance but it is also challenging to get the message out there.  I am happy that vehicles like Kickstarter exist to launch projects.  I am using it for the first time, hoping to elevate the production, promotion and distribution.  It will also enable me to create at least one great quality music video with Spirit Juice Studios.  To answer your question, as far as we can take it. All over the globe and beyond.

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COL: How large is your audience/fan base already?

PONTIFEX: My fan base is steadily increasing.  I am amazed at times when I get letters from India, Africa, Australia or other far off places.  It really does show the power of the internet and also of our strong connections as the body of Christ.  I really do think that this album has the potential to make a strong impact in our culture.  I pray for that, daily.  

COL: How can people support your message?

PONTIFEX: Right now, the biggest way would be to journey with me on Kickstarter.  I would like to invite everyone to follow the link and help me to reach the goal so I can launch the project.  I have some great incentives for those that help and will be emailing messages and photos as this develops.  If everyone could at least share the project and spread the word that alone would be a huge help.  I am confident in what I have written and I pray that it becomes true art that inspires people. 

Thank you, Father Pontifex and I'll wish you luck, although I know luck isn't a factor when it comes to the Word.

If you'd like to watch some of Father Pontifex's previous work, click here.

To SUPPORT Father Pontifex, click here.

You can also follow him on Facebook and Twitter.

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