Rend Collective's star shoots through Willow Creek

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Rend Collective Experiment

Updated: April 7, 2011 4:12PM

At least they're honest.

The Northern Ireland-based Rend Collective Experiment, a Christian rock band that infuses elements of pop, folk and inventiveness with a whole lot of kudos to Jesus, knows they appeal mainly to a very specific demographic. Consider who they're opening for and the venues they're playing in support of their debut album, "Organic Family Hymnal." Chris Tomlin, an icon in the genre, invited the band to join him on his 30-city tour which is stopping at several churches in support of his album, "And If God Is For Us...".

On March 11, they'll be performing at Willow Creek Church in South Barrington.

But Rend Collective Experiment is hoping more American secular-minded music fans will hear their songs and follow them for their sound even if they don't appreciate the lyrics, which is what's happening overseas. Staying honest

In England and Ireland, said drummer and band leader Gareth Gilkeson, Christian rock isn't taken seriously. But, on their turf they're gaining fans as long as the band doesn't pretend to be something other than what they really are.

"The first thing people want is honesty," Gilkeson said. "When we do what we do, we try to do it with honesty. Hopefully people will jump on board."

Their honesty is what's causing their star to rise in the Christian music genre, with kind reviews in magazines and websites such as "Worship Leader," "CCM," "Indie Vision Music," "CBA Retailers + Resources," Crosswalk.com, JesusFreakHideout.com and HollywoodJesus.com. They were also named one of the top 5 Christian/Gospel artists to watch in 2011. The Gospel Music Channel called "Organic Family Hymnal" one of the best albums of 2010.

The 15-member band came together during a student movement seven years ago, when participants were "looking to journey together in faith," said Will Herron, guitarist and vocalist. Rend refers to parts of the Bible which read "rend your hearts." Some of the members taught music to their friends, and they became a collective of mates as well as musicians. Rock influence

They draw their influences from U2, Arcade Fire, Snow Patrol and Mumford and Sons among others.

Herron said the songs "Come On" and "Movements" are audience favorites so far.

"Come On," which starts off quiet and contains a few simple verses, picks up volume and becomes anthemic.

"People get that song because it's passionate," he said.

"Movements" is an upbeat tune with a blend of male and female harmonies.

"'Movements' can be a real ice-breaker," he added. "It's a song people can really get a hold of."

However, one of their more interesting efforts isn't on the album, but can be found on YouTube. They perform "How Great is Our God," by Tomlin, on their iPhones.

"It was done tongue in cheek," Herron said.

They haven't played it live, but they have done their own songs on iPhones in concert. Regardless whether they're performing with instruments or something else, they're doing it with heart.

"I hope they (listeners) take away something that is authentic and transparent," Gilkeson said. "If that's not there, it's not worth anything."

Chris Tomlin, Louie Giglio, Christy Nockels, Rend Collective Experiment

7 p.m. on March 11, Willow Creek Community Church, 67 E. Algonquin Rd., South Barrington. $25. (847) 765-5000, www.itickets.com

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