A representative for band According to John, perhaps best known for its hit song, "The Song of Jabez," contacted CMCentral.com today to announce that A2J is officially disbanding. But instead of being a sad or unfortunate situation, the band members are actually quite excited about the transitions happening in their lives.

After months of expecting to sign a major record deal, the insider tells us that that door was inexplicably closed for the band. Although at first they were devastated, one by one God began to call them all into other areas of ministry. They reportedly "never saw this coming" and were in the middle of writing and recording for their next album when all the doors were closed. The final choice for the band was less of a decision to "break up" as it was to simply continue serving God in other areas.

Frontman John Waller has accepted an opportunity to plant a church in Colorado. He will be moving there with his wife and kids at the end of October. He will be leading praise and worship once the church starts up, and will be putting together a band for that purpose when he gets there. As for his recording career, Waller just plans to "simply be obedient and see where God leads him." He will reportedly continue to write and pray that God will provide an outlet for his music.

A2J had already written and recorded seven songs for the band's planned next album with producer David Zaffiro. The band has now posted those songs online (Flash Player required). The songs are in the "Music" section under the "music samples" link.

In addition, the entire band will be giving its farewell performance at Christian Music festival in Peachtree City, GA, on October 2. Waller has decided to make available a new 8-song EP just for that performance. Plans are in the works to offer this CD on According to John's website in the near future. The EP will not be available in stores.