Rend Collective

Early Life & Origins

Rend Collective, a Northern Irish Christian folk rock band, was formed in 2007 by a group of friends from Bangor, Northern Ireland. The band's original members, including Gareth Gilkeson, Will Herron, Bridget Herron, Chris Llewellyn, and Hayley Williams, met while attending a church in Bangor. They discovered their shared passion for music and began playing together, eventually forming Rend Collective.

Growing up in Northern Ireland, the band members were exposed to a rich musical heritage, with influences ranging from traditional Irish folk to contemporary Christian music. This eclectic mix of styles would later shape the band's unique sound, which blends folk, rock, and worship music.

Career Beginnings

Rend Collective began their career by playing local gigs and recording demos in their makeshift studio. Their early influences included David Crowder, Chris Tomlin, and Hillsong United, which is evident in their folk-infused worship sound. The band's first EP, Organic Family Hymnal, was released in 2008, followed by their debut album, Organic Family Hymnal, in 2010.

These early recordings showcased the band's ability to craft catchy, sing-along choruses and meaningful, scripture-based lyrics. As their music gained traction, Rend Collective started to attract attention from the Christian music scene, leading to opportunities to tour and share their music with a wider audience.

Rise to Fame

Rend Collective's breakthrough moment came with the release of their 2012 album, Homemade Worship by Handmade People. The album's lead single, "Build Your Kingdom Here", became a huge hit, topping the UK Christian Charts and gaining significant airplay on Christian radio stations. This success was followed by the release of The Art of Celebration in 2014, which debuted at number 13 on the US Billboard Christian Albums chart.

The band's subsequent albums, including As Family We Go (2015) and Good News (2017), further solidified their position as a leading force in the Christian music scene. With their energetic live performances and thought-provoking lyrics, Rend Collective has built a loyal fan base across the globe.

Musical Style & Impact

Rend Collective's unique sound is characterized by their blend of folk, rock, and worship music. Their use of traditional instruments, such as the accordion and harmonica, adds a distinctive flavor to their songs. The band's lyrics, often inspired by scripture and personal experiences, focus on themes of hope, redemption, and community.

Their music has had a significant impact on the Christian music scene, inspiring a new generation of worship leaders and songwriters. Rend Collective's influence can be seen in the work of other artists, such as Switchfoot and Needtobreathe, who have also explored the intersection of faith and music.

Discography Highlights

Some of Rend Collective's most notable albums and songs include:

• Organic Family Hymnal (2010)
• Homemade Worship by Handmade People (2012)
• The Art of Celebration (2014)
• As Family We Go (2015)
• Good News (2017)
• "Build Your Kingdom Here"
• "My Lighthouse"
• "Counting Every Blessing"

Awards & Recognition

Rend Collective has received numerous awards and nominations for their music, including several Dove Awards and UK Christian Music Awards. The band has also been recognized for their innovative approach to worship music, which has inspired a new wave of creativity in the Christian music scene.

Recent Work & Legacy

Today, Rend Collective continues to tour and release new music, inspiring audiences around the world with their unique sound and message. The band's legacy extends beyond their own music, as they have paved the way for other artists to explore the intersection of faith and music.

With their commitment to creating authentic, meaningful music, Rend Collective has left an indelible mark on the Christian music scene. As they look to the future, the band remains dedicated to their craft, continuing to write and record music that inspires and uplifts their fans.