About DMHO :: Band Reviews

WEMI - Appleton, WI
By: Paul Cameron, Executive Director and General Manager What can I say about "Only Jesus" that the title doesn't say! Look at the lyrics, listen to the song. It's all about what Christian Broadcasting is all about. What will be your legacy? Will it be that you never took a chance musically for the cause of Christ or did you play it safe? Take it from someone who has played it safe. Listeners respond to songs that touch the heart and this one does just that as Denver and his team keep the focus on where it needs to be!

KTIS - Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN
By: Dan Wynia, Music Director When I first heard "Solid Rock" I thought, what a fun song, but it doesn't exactly fit 'the format.' While I was out of the office for a few days, one of the guys on our morning drive team discovered the CD on my desk, listened to it, put it on the air, and the rest is history! It was an instant hit. The phones started lighting up with listeners wanting to know who those guys are and where can I get the CD? It has become one of those fun songs to throw in the mix during drive time to spread a little joy to all those stuck in traffic!

KFIS - Portland, OR
By: DAVE ARTHUR, Apd / Md
"I really like their stuff. I got the whole CD and really really like it. Nice to hear something fresh and different. They have A LOT of talent! I'd love to have them come and do a whole show. Them boyz gots skillz!!!"

WXPZ - Salisbury, DE
By Denise Harper, MD ""Unwind" is a fun, energetic song that adds a little spice to the music rotation. DMHO was the showstopper at our summer music festival! Our listeners love 'em!!"

Family Life Network - Bath, NY
By John Owens, PD Family Life Network/Morning Show Host Denver's music is so fresh and different. With just a few spins of "Solid Rock" during the morning show, we've received a huge response in phone calls and emails asking where they could get a copy of the cd! Funny thing is the guys have never even played here before and the response is still amazing. "Stand" is so powerful that we're considering it for our next sharathon theme song! Strong lyrics, great production and an incredible sound have made this cd a favorite in our house.....

WXIR - Indianapolis, IN
By MD HOWARD HILL "Unwind" is fresh and exciting! It's filled with God's truth and makes you want to, dare I say it, Dance! Thank goodness for no in-studio web cam! Our audience loves Denver & The Mile High Orchestra. And just don't take my word for it, here's a quote from one of our listeners..."

"I really liked that song "Unwind." It's something different! Thanks for playing it. It was great to hear on the drive home and just got me in an upbeat mood." NATHAN GILBERT, WXIR/INDIANAPOLIS Listener

Salem Satellite Media
By Jeff Crites - Operations Manager/Program Director (Proudly playing DMHO on XM 32 The Fish) "A mesmerizing blend of music and message. The CD you simply must own is 'Stand' ... and the band you simply must see and hear to believe ... is Denver & the Mile High Orchestra. The best live show I've ever experienced. Period."

Pulse FM - South Bend, IN
By Molly McLane - Morning Show DJ Denver and the MHO are one-of-a-kind! They're fresh, exciting, and unique. But most of all, their message has meaning. Something this topsy-turvy world of ours could use...

cMusicWeb.com
My thoughts upon hearing that Denver & The Mile High Orchestra had released their follow-up to 2002's Stand can be summed up in a single word: "Finally!" While the wait has felt longer than it actually has been, I can't help but think how refreshing it is to hear their considerable talents on display once again. After all, one can only take so much of the same-sound synthesized music that drives the Christian pop scene. Read full review here!

Southern Gospel News
"Have you ever listened to a CD and loved it so much that you wanted to tell the world about it? I don't think I have ever heard a more entertaining and enjoyable Christmas recording than this one from Denver & The Mile High Orchestra. Or rather, a more entertaining and enjoyable recording PERIOD!" Read the full review here!

Alpha Omega News
By Ken W. - full review "Band leader Denver Bierman leads the Mile High Orchestra track after track of vintage big band music. Combining the late 20's - early 30's style of scat, swing, and jazz. A rare combination in christian music, reviving a genre from the past. Although the music is fun and entertaining, the heart of it is in worship...While performing live, Denver enjoys leading worship as he feels his calling is to minister through his music. "Stand", "Solid Rock", and "Delivered" are fine examples of this eclectic style being used to lift up the name of Jesus."

LifeWay
Dr. Gene Mims - Vice President If you want to have a great Christian experience listening to a great Christian band then I can recommend Denver and the Mile High Orchestra. The music is great the message is greater and the CD is a treat. I always enjoy this Band and give thanks to the Lord for their talent and commitment to Christ.

Will Denton
Drummer - Steven Curtis Chapman These guys swing, man! I love this cd - Big Band with incredible pop sensibilities and totally fresh arrangements. The players are young and energetic, and Denver is the consummate Bandleader. Jared Ribble is one of the most promising young drummers out there, and he does not disappoint on this one! Great stuff, guys!

Campus Life
by Mark Moring - full review "Arguably the most fun album of the year. Think big band. Think swing." Mark Moring Ranked Act the Scat As the 12th best Christian Album of 2001.

ChristianityToday.com
by Russ Breimeier - full review "One of the greatest strengths of Act the Scat is the diversity of jazz music Denver and the Mile High Orchestra Displays"..."It's filled with...examples of clever wordplay not seen in music as much today as it was back when jazz was popular. It's a delightful survey of the different kinds of jazz, and it's all performed extremely well."..."Their live performances have brought audiences to their feet, and for good reason. There's a lot of talent behind Denver and the Mile High Orchestra, and their skillful blend of Christian beliefs with jazz is sure to please young and old alike.

CMCentral.com
by Robin Parrish - full review "Anyone "in the mood" for some swing? To my knowledge, Denver & mho are the first bonafied Big Band to hit the Christian music scene."..."With a light-hearted approach, and sizzling band arrangements, the entire CD is sure to set your feet to stomping - check it out!"

Cheerful Heart
On March 29, Cheerful Heart welcomed Denver & the Mile High Orchestra at the historic Paramount Theatre in Anderson, Indiana. This was hands down one of the best stage shows we have ever seen! It was 90 minutes of non-stop entertainment with a powerful message. Thank you Denver and crew.
ed. note - View Cheerful Heart's Website for more information.

Christian Fellowship Church & Bookstore
Sam Lynn
Evansville, IN
Denver and MHO has recently done a concert at our church. They were VERY well received and created a tremendous "buzz" in our community and in our own bookstore. We have stocked their recordings and continue to re-stock regularly. Because of their unique sound, playing a CD in the store is usually all the advertisement they need AND we've found that their music appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds. They've created quite a following in our area now and we look forward to continuing to carry their products! It's been a delight working with them and their suppliers.

Creation Festival
By Bill Darpino WOW! This is one of the freshest bands around. There performance was energetic, fun, God focused and simply swinging. This is one bunch of talented musicians.

Alive Festival
By Bill Graening - Director
Denver & The Mile High Orchestra have performed at Alive the last 2 years and have one of the best "live" shows I have ever seen! They incorporate great original big band and swing with Christ centered lyrics and always get the crowd fired up. I have already decided to place Denver & The Mile High Orchestra on main stage for Alive 2003 based on crowd response!

Camp Kirkland Productions

Denver and the Mile High Orchestra is a must see and hear. Everyone loves "big band" swing style music. Put that joyful style and sound with vocal affirmations of our faith in Christ and you get what this group does best.

What an awesome concert in Anderson, IN last night! The first time I heard "Unwind" on the radio I started to dream about hearing Denver and the Mile High Orchestra in person. That dream became a reality and what a blessing it was. Not only was the music fantastic, but it was a great show as well! I'm really looking forward to enjoying the entire Stand CD for a long time. God bless you as you serve Him!
Mark Watkins
Oaklandon Christian Churchtop

Just a note to say THANK YOU and God Bless You all for your ministry. My wife Kim and I attended Thursday night's DMHO concert @ the FLM facility. What an absolutely AWESOME worship experience!!!!!!

I had purchased both of their CD's for my wife this Christmas, after hearing them played on FLM. She grew up listening to big band with her dad, but we now listen exclusively to FLM, so when this "Denver group" started showing up on the air, she went nuts over their unique approach to worship. Needless to say, I was up bright and early the morning tickets went on sale, and purchased mine online. Then we waited for April 3rd to arrive...and waited...and waited...and...

Wouldn't you know it, the day before the concert, I came down with another NASTY cold! Crawling in bed looked far more attractive than going to a concert Thursday night. After all, I had a lab report due the next day for an Electronics Communications lab at C.C.C., and I never even listened to big band .( Like John, before coming to Christ, I grew up listening to the likes of Charlie Daniels Band and Alabama and The Judds). Needless to say, I was ready to give up my ticket to one of Kim's friends. I met her at her classroom at 3:30 and tried to work on my lab report on the laptop until I felt so rotten I actually crawled in a dark corner and took a 30 minute "combat nap".

Kim offered me numerous opportunities to bow out, telling me that "you are far more important than any old concert". For some reason though, a still small voice inside (hmmm wonder whose voice it could have been...) implored me to go. So, we grabbed a bite to eat, and headed through the driving rain to Bath. We wanted to get there "early" since we knew you guys were broadcasting live, and we wanted to get good seats (artists circle, of course!). Since the concert started at 7:00, surely 6:00 was early enough. Much to our surprise, the lot was already filling up. We made our way inside and found dozens of friends from Victory Highway Wesleyan (great backup band: Vaughn and co. are always a blessing on Sunday mornings). The excitement in the air was unbelievable!

As the show kicked off an hour later, my cold, which had only two hours ago threatened to send me running for the covers, seemed to disappear (for the next two hours). Denver and his Mile High Orchestra lived up to their name and beyond. They took each and every one of us privileged enough to have attended on an adrenaline-pumping, hand clapping, sweat-pouring, mind-blowing worship whirlwind for which there are simply no adequate adjectives. One moment, as they belted out big band tunes, I could see Kim's childhood memories reflected in her eyes as she remembered listening to Glen Miller with her dad. The next instant, I could smell the crawfish on Bourbon street as the band sailed into a Dixieland tune. When the evening was over, my hands hurt from clapping, my shirt was soaked with sweat, and my ears rang (Denver warned the audience that those of us in the first 7 rows - we were in the second row - would be deaf by evening's end, but that we would have a great time in the process - he was good to his word, and more!)

For me though, the most precious memory I will take from the evening was Denver's leading us all in a very stirring version of the National Anthem. His words touched my heart as he prayed for our troops. As an 11- year navy veteran, and an active participant in both the Libyan assault in 1986 and Desert Shield/Desert Storm in 1990/91, my heart is indeed with my former shipmates and comrades-in-arms who so bravely defend those precious freedoms each of us enjoys. (Yes, I was the one who tossed the Abraham Lincoln ballcap to Denver during the Star-Spangled Banner; I had intended for Denver to keep it as a thank-you for his kind words, but felt awkward when he offered it back). It was at that moment when I understood why the Lord had gently urged me not to bow out of attending. I had just had a really rough week spent battling my own emotions, as I longed to be 7000 miles away serving my country as I had 13 years earlier, and struggling to put my thoughts into words as I argued with anti-war protestors at college. Last night, The Lord used Denver to restore my strength and renew my resolve to continue to support the brave men and women who are Freedom's brave defenders. Guys, I would fly to Nashville to see this group perform again! Their ministry, like yours, is so truly, obviously and wonderfully blessed by God. If you have the opportunity to speak to them before they leave the FLM area, please give them our most heartfelt thanks and let them know we wish them Godspeed and traveling mercies as they spread the good news of Jesus Christ.
Thanks, and God Bless You ALL!
Dan (and Kim)

My husband and I just got back from the DMHO concert in Anderson, Indiana, at the lovely Paramount Theater. The concert was amazing! Even better than we had expected. Great energy and great music -- thanks for the message and the ministry. The words that Denver shared during the concert were very moving, and more people need to hear exactly what he said! I definitely felt encouraged to strive even harder to keep doing the best I can, and to bring Christ's gospel in whatever way I am able. Thanks a lot for an awesome evening. We really wished that we could have stayed a little longer, and talked more about the "weighty matters" of Jesus Christ, but we had to leave. I did get to meet Denver, and I was glad to settle a point of contention with my husband (we had a little imaginary wager on what type of horn he played). May God bless you all, and we look forward to seeing you in the Indy area again --
Katherine (and Christopher)

Listening to a CD is one thing. BUT, if you really want to see what Denver and the Mile High are all about then YOU MUST SEE THEM LIVE. It will blow your socks off. I have seen crowd after crowd watch these guys mill around before a gig and they are shy and very quiet. BUT, when they hit the stage there is a spiritual explosion that sweeps every single person away. These guys ignite a spiritual fire that literally brings crowds to a blaze. If you ain't seen DMHO live then you ain't seen nothing yet. I go whenever they are close or even if they are not. They spend as much time after the gig as the fans want. They are never too busy. Every fan gets their time with Denver and the band. Your stereo can not do justice to these guys. Money is tight for everyone, so if you have to choose one concert, you will be mad if you don't make it DMHO.
Bob
Plymouth, IN

My 5 year old daughter, 13 year-old trombone playing son and I met my sister and her 11 year old son in Binghamton last night for your concert. We arrived early and and sat in the second row - what a blessing to find five great seats in a row!

The performance was really exceptional! I literally could not sit still, and my hands are sore today from all the clapping I did. I was touched by what Denver shared about his life and very moved by his sincere prayers. It was very nice how the guys came out into the audience with us - they are so personable and real.

My only regret is that we could not wait long enough to say hi and thanks in person after the show. The line was so long that we would have been there into the "wee" morning hours which we couldn't do with the kids.
May God Bless your ministry!
Sincerely,
Connie
Albany, NY top

A message from daughter: " You are my favorite band - keep up the good work."
Angela

Last night i went to the Denver and the Mile High Orchestra concert in Binghamton, NY. It was deffenitly the BEST concert i've ever seen. Me and my friend were in the front row screaming our heads off. I've never had sooooo much fun listening to music, especially christian music. I'm so happy for this band. It's great to see a band like DMHO. They are reaching out to so many people of all different ages. They really are blessed by God. I can't wait till they come back again. I'd be there in a heartbeat.
Like Denver says, "Live 4 Jesus"
Corey

I just listened to your concert in NY live on the radio (because I wasn't quick enough to get tickets before they sold out). I am hooked! You guys are incredible. We already put your Oct. concert at Roberts Wesleyan College on the calendar. We wont miss it! Please add us to your mailing list and God bless you!
Matt & Heather
Macedon, NY

Family Life Ministries brought you to us and we are so thankful to the Lord. Everyone signed my son Gregg's CD and he was thrilled. He plays the tuba and is only 12 years old and everyone encouraged him to continue to "Live for Christ". We went through a divorce recently and his father is remarrying end of this month without looking back at us and hasn't spent much time with his kids since he left (one and a half years ago for his work partner) until recently. Please put Gregg on your prayer list. Your on-line testimonies are great - to read how you guys put your wives and families first: He needs to see that commitment in Godly male role models. So Thankyou from the botom of my heart for following the Lord - What a great plan he has for each one of you!!
Rock on with the Rock of Ages!!
Barb
Jamestown, NY

I just wanted to thank you again for such a wonderful concert on Saturday night at the Binghamton Forum. You are truly an amazingly blessed bunch of men. Please tell Tony, "GO ALBANY!!" Danielle thanks you for the CD for Ky. The rest of his platoon will be appreciating it also.
You guys ROCK!! Hope to see ya soon.
God Bless,
Missytop

I'm blown away by your music. Very cool stuff. WJQ radio here in Grand Rapids started playing Unwind at a time that I really needed to hear those words, thanks. in His service together,
Keith McKenzie
Director of Worship
Maranatha Christian Reformed Church
Holland, MItop

We had Denver and the Mile High Orchestra here last night in Warren, Pa. I was in the choir for them, and was honored to do it for the group. I would like to thank you for your great ministry. It was one of the best concerts ever that I had attended.
God Bless you and your ministry,
Geoff Warren, Pa

I was just recently introduced to the sounds of Denver and the Mile High Orchestra and can't believe what I've been missing. Please add me to your mailing list. I hope a trip to Kansas City is added to your tour schedule soon!
Jerri
Excelsior Springs, MO

I had pretty much given up on ever finding any Christian big band music . . . then my church's book store got "Act the Scat". They had ordered it simply because it was listed as a jazz album, and they knew my husband was looking for CDs in that genre. Needless to say, I was thrilled to hear that big band sound coming from my stereo once again. The music is awesome, the lyrics uplifting and, overall, biblically sound. And the "Stand" CD did not disappoint. Now, if only Denver & the Mile High Orchestra would come to Canada (specifically Alberta ). *That* would be an experience to remember.
Keep up the good work! And God bless!
Michelle

Your guys left me speechless with your talent and lung capacity!!! The performance was the best I've ever been to, and I've been listening to your CD every minute since I got it (literally, and I got it last night!)
Natalie

If there is one thing that helps me up in the morning it's "Solid Rock" man it's awesome, I checked a couple of Christian bookstores in the area after the local Christian radio station started playing it... all sold out and they told me I wasn't the first one to inquire. Keep it up guys, you are giving a lot of people hope and encouragement.
Thanks,
Brendan
Minneapolis

All I can say is "wow!" When DMHO came to Carson-Newman College it was great to see what kind of ministry that they have. I listen to the CD so much now and day. Rock on DMHO, and we hope to hear from you all at Carson-Newman College.
P.S. Bari-Sax Rules!
Walter
Swing for the King !!!

KTIS in Minneapolis has played Solid Rock. What an awesome song, Big Band Christian Music is so cool. Makes me want to learn to dance.
Thanks for the sound !!!!
Thanks,
Jontop

KTIS f.m. recently released your cut "stand" to the listeners of Minnesota and Western Wis. When it’s played during my morning commute my truck becomes elevated above the rush hour traffic. Your sound is the freshest thing I've heard in years. Please let us know when you’ll be in the Minneapolis area so we can show our appreciation for the talents God has so richly blessed each and every one of your band with.
Keep Rockin’ the waves,
Todd Christentop

After hearing your CD on KTIS FM in St Paul, MN I will anxiously wait [for my CD] and know it is worth it. What I have heard is really enjoyable, can't standstill while listening. Will be passing the word around about this CD and hopefully will lead other to the kingdom.
Arvillatop

I attended your concert on March 8 in Gumboro Del. I am a musician - music degree - Army band - choirs - etc....I kid you not - the concert Saturdaynight was the best I have ever experienced. I have been to many big concerts in my life - the Gaithers - Larnel - Sandi - Driscoll - then there is the Vegas ones (non spiritual) - none were better than you.

Denver - I applaud your God given talent. You and the band are awesome. The bass player - at my age it took me a few minutes to appreciate him. But then - talent and his athletic ability took over - I was amazed.

I look forward to being at a concert near the Eastern Shore again. I'll be watching your web site.
Bob & Barbara

I attend Bay Shore Community Church where DMHO were this weekend. I just think this group is awesome! I can't stop talking about them and can't stop listening to the CDs. Denver is a gifted song writer. Even the " fun" songs have a real message. The writing for the band is really great and the band is definitely tight. Some of the "licks" they do are unbelievable. I think Stand is one of the most powerful songs I have heard and I think it should be heard by everyone!

You know, along with being awesome musicians, these guys are also real. My wife and I talked a lot about how these guys are humble and accessible. Denver is right there to meet the people and is even concerned about the correct spelling for a little kid's name on a poster. I had a nice conversation first with Eric and then with Michael about playing sax. Even though Eric is tour manager, he had time to talk to me and both were truly interested. They are obviously having a great time but are also truly concerned with challenging their audience to go deeper with Christ.
Thank you.
Doug

I am a convert! I have been greatly blessed by your newest CD. I will certainly be promoting it within my circle of friends!

You should consider coming to upstate New York in the near future - Elmira, Syracuse, Binghamton area! There is a strong contingent of believers who hear your music on the Family Life Network out of Bath, NY and we LOVE it! May God continue to bless your ministry.
Donna

The CDs arrived today [from the internet store]... I can't wait to tear off the plastic and crank it up!!!
Thanks a bunch,
Steve

I really appreciate what you are doing, both you and the band, and absolutly adore the band itself. What great music and great ministry!!!

All of the band, being in their 20's, helps me keep in view what I can do. I know that they aren't much different than myself, and I see all the beautiful work they are doing. Thank you for opening my eyes!
God Bless you, all of you, and I will keep you in my prayers,
Sabrina Lippincott