Rend Collective

Rend Collective, originally known as Rend Collective Experiment, is a highly acclaimed Northern Irish Christian folk rock and worship band originating from Bangor, Northern Ireland. Known for their infectious, high energy acoustic sound and deeply joyful approach to congregational worship, they have become one of the most recognizable groups in modern contemporary Christian music.

Since their official formation in the late 2000s, the band has consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional worship music by incorporating folk instruments, foot stomping rhythms, and a communal “campfire” aesthetic. They are best known for massive global anthems like “My Lighthouse,” “Build Your Kingdom Here,” and “Counting Every Blessing,” which have become staples in churches and Christian gatherings around the world.

Operating today under their own imprint, Rend Family Records, in partnership with Capitol Christian Music Group, Rend Collective continues to tour extensively.Despite changes in their lineup over the years, the group remains dedicated to their founding mission: creating authentic, celebratory music that points listeners toward faith and community.

Early Life and Background

The roots of Rend Collective can be traced back to the early 2000s at Bangor Elim Church in Northern Ireland. The group did not initially set out to become an internationally touring rock band. Instead, they began as a young adult ministry movement called “Rend,” led by drummer Gareth Gilkeson, who served as a youth pastor and preacher, while Chris Llewellyn led the worship times.The name “Rend” was chosen deliberately, inspired by the biblical concept of God rending the heavens, as well as the idea of rending one’s heart in genuine devotion.

How Their Music Career Started

The early iteration of the group was less of a structured band and more of a collective of friends, musicians, and young adults trying to figure out life and faith together.Describing themselves as a “family,” they eventually adopted the name Rend Collective Experiment to reflect their collaborative and unconventional approach to making music. Their distinct sound was born out of organic, acoustic worship sessions, utilizing whatever instruments were available, from acoustic guitars and fiddles to homemade percussion. In 2010, they recorded their debut studio album, Organic Family Hymnal, under Kingsway Music. The project captured their raw, authentic energy and quickly garnered attention outside of their local community.

Career and Breakthrough

The band achieved significant international recognition with their sophomore album, Homemade Worship by Handmade People, released in 2012. This project featured the breakout hit “Build Your Kingdom Here,” a lively folk anthem accompanied by a music video that perfectly captured their unpolished charm.Their success caught the attention of major Christian artists, leading to high profile tours alongside prominent figures like Chris Tomlin and Kari Jobe.

In 2014, the group shortened their name to Rend Collective and released The Art of Celebration. This album marked their definitive breakthrough, debuting at number one on the Billboard Christian Albums chart. It featured the monumental hit “My Lighthouse,” a song that achieved Platinum certification and became an international sensation, cementing their status as leaders in the contemporary Christian music industry.

Musical Style and Influences

Rend Collective is celebrated for pioneering a rustic, folk rock sound within the worship genre, drawing deliberate comparisons to the energetic acoustic styles of popular mainstream folk bands. They intentionally steer clear of heavily synthesized, polished pop, opting instead for organic instrumentation. Their lively arrangements frequently feature banjos, mandolins, ukuleles, accordions, and unconventional rhythm instruments like the “Jingling Johnny.” Lyrically, the band focuses on themes of joy, celebration, family, and resilience, consistently promoting the idea that worship should be a genuine, celebratory response rather than a solemn obligation.

Notable Songs and Albums

The group possesses a robust and highly successful discography. Following the triumph of The Art of Celebration, they released several chart topping albums, including As Family We Go (2015), Good News (2018), and Choose to Worship (2020). They are also known for their innovative Campfire album series, where they record stripped down, acoustic versions of their songs outdoors around a literal campfire. Among their most beloved tracks are “My Lighthouse,” “Counting Every Blessing,” “Joy of the Lord,” “Rescuer (Good News),” and “Your Name Is Power”.

Major Collaborations

Throughout their expansive career, Rend Collective has actively collaborated with and supported other artists in the Christian music sphere. Beyond performing alongside established artists, they launched their own record label imprint, Rend Family Records, to foster new talent.Their first signee was the Los Angeles based worship band Urban Rescue, whom they mentored and took on tour, demonstrating their commitment to building a broader musical community and elevating independent Christian artists.

Awards and Recognition

The band’s unique contribution to Christian music has not gone unnoticed by the industry. They have achieved multiple RIAA certifications, including a Platinum certification for “My Lighthouse” and a Gold certification for “Counting Every Blessing”. Their albums consistently top the UK Christian and Gospel charts, as well as the US Billboard Top Christian Albums chart. Furthermore, their 2018 album Good News earned them a prestigious nomination at the GMA Dove Awards for Worship Album of the Year, affirming their critical and commercial impact.

Current Career / Recent Activities

Rend Collective remains an active and evolving musical force. Over the years, the lineup has seen several changes, most notably the departure of founding members Gareth and Ali Gilkeson in 2023. Today, the core group features Chris Llewellyn, Stephen Mitchell, Wil Pearce, Jonathan Chu, and Daniel Jones. Continuing their legacy of releasing heartfelt music, the band dropped the album Whosoever in 2022 and followed it with Folk! in mid 2025. They continue to tour extensively across the United Kingdom, the United States, and beyond, leading joyful worship experiences for a dedicated global fanbase.