THE BEGINNING Formed nearly three years ago, Canaan is already a musical force in Central Florida. They are a Rock and Soul talent powerhouse of musicality and creativity. The band writes most of their songs together or individually by the talented members. Their motivation and drive, the many instruments they play and the range of their talent enables the group to thrill and inspire people of all ages. Three individually accomplished musicians, three magnetic personalities and three people of consummate faith have come together – some would say have been “brought together” – and they are on a mission. Their mission is to let people know that God loves them JUST AS THEY ARE. Canaan’s universal and all-encompassing message dispels the oxymoronic notion that people of faith would exclude others of faith when we are all made in God’s image. Fancy words, a heady mission, but they are SERIOUS and they are doing it! The Band consists of Melanie, Dave Lee and James. Melanie is a talented dynamo of a gospel performer/singer/songwriter, well known throughout Florida. Mel sings with a power and glow that turns her songs into a sermon and autobiography all at once. Her range and motivation make her an absolute FORCE that lifts and moves an audience. She, alone, IS a concert and a church service all at once. Dave Lee ably provides vocals as well as accompanying on the many and various instruments he plays; piano, bass, guitar, percussion, saxophone and most other instruments as well! As a Pentecostal prodigy, Dave brings his long national experience, energy, faith and talent to Canaan. As a singer, songwriter and musician, Dave brings a depth, power and range to the group, which is pivotal to their success. James sings in his dramatic high tenor and in close harmony with Dave and Melanie, take the vocals to new heights and goose-bump moments akin to those high, sparkling bright-white fireworks on the 4th of July. Singing since he was two, James brings a musical “old soul” to the group; influenced by the personal triumphs and tragedies which shape his modern spiritual journey, James wants to see people and communities changed by the ultimate power of faith and music.