San Antonio rock act Abandon has signed an exclusive recording agreement with EMI CMG imprint Forefront Records. The band released its debut offering, a 5-song, self-titled EP, July 22.

With a sound that has been likened to popular bands U2 and The Killers, Abandon comprises brothers Josh Engler (vocals) and Justin Engler (rhythm guitars), cousins Dave Vela (drums) and Stevan Vela (lead guitar) as well as Bryan Fowler (bass). They formed as part of their church’s worship band, eventually moving on to play local shows. The group came into relationship with Forefront Records after Director of A&R Chris York heard them perform at a Nashville club.

“It’s definitely the strangest way I’ve discovered a new band,” says York. “I was having dinner at a Mexican restaurant with my wife, and she started to get frustrated with me because she could tell I wasn’t paying full attention to our conversation. This was because I could hear a band playing live at the club next door, and it sounded really, really good. I got in touch with the band later, and after we got to know each other, we knew it was a fit and started working together!”

“We are extremely excited to be a part of the Forefront family,” says frontman Josh Engler. “We know we are in good hands, and are humbled by the opportunity. Also, we cannot wait for everyone to hear what we’ve been working on for the past year. It’s an exciting time for us.”

And fans will be able to preview 5 songs from Abandon’s forthcoming full-length release, scheduled for early 2009, via a self-titled EP available at all digital music outlets and at the band’s shows beginning July 22. Produced by Chris Stevens (Sanctus Real, Shawn McDonald, Delirious), the Abandon EP conveys classic Bible truths in a fresh voice (Peter’s denial in “Providence”), fashions vulnerable prayers into memorable, soaring alternative pop songs (“Be Alive in Me”), and praises God while wearing the creative influences of The Beatles, Coldplay, and Delirious? (“All Because of You”).

Additionally the band’s first two singles, “All Because of You” (CHR) and “Providence” (Rock) will be vying for ads at radio beginning Aug. 1. Abandon will also debut music from its EP live on tour with SONICFLOOd this fall. For more information on Abandon, visit: www.myspace.com/abandontx.

About EMI CMG Label Group:
Brentwood, Tennessee-based EMI CMG Label Group is comprised of Sparrow Records, Forefront Records, and Credential Recordings, in addition to providing A&R and marketing support for sixstepsrecords via a joint venture and licensing partnership. Balancing freedom, discipline, creativity, profitability and ministry, EMI CMG Label Group strives for excellence in artist development. The Label Group is a division of EMI Christian Music Group. For further information, please visit www.emicmg.com.