On October 31, 2025, Northern Irish Christian band Rend Collective, released their Christmas album, “Christmas in Belfast.” The album is an EP of eight songs, including three originals. It follows two previous Christmas albums by the band.
The album features Irish-inspired renditions of traditional
Christmas songs. The band’s goal with the album was to create a sound and feel
of being at the pub with friends and family members, and this was accomplished seamlessly.
“The Reason” reminds me of “Naked and Afraid” by Milky
Chance in the best way. It resembles the melody and feel in the verses. This
song is about keeping the meaning of Christmas in mind as we go about the
busyness of the holiday season. It is so easy to get overwhelmed by the never-ending
to-do lists this time of year, but keeping the focus on Jesus as the reason
will help us stay focused and prevent overwhelm.
The overall vibes of the album resemble NeedToBreathe, which
is another Christian band. Both bands have a similar sound and feel, having an
alternative rock sound on a few of the songs. On the other songs, the band delves
into their Irish roots and explores a more Celtic sound. Across all of the
songs, no matter the style, the Rend Collective voice that fans love rings
through.
The mixing on the album is well done. Even on songs where
the background tracks are fuller, the vocals and lyrics can still be heard
clearly, which is not an easy thing to do. Each song accomplishes its sound, vibe,
and overall mission and message.
“A Christmas Hymn” is a song with lyrics sung to the tune of
“Come Thou Fount,” which is a popular church hymn. The lyrics are different
until the end. The last line pays homage to the hymn by including the original
hymn’s lyrics, except for the first line of that verse.
Overall, this album is a great Christmas album. It focuses on the true meaning of Christmas in a way that is open and inviting to all. It is the perfect album for fans of Rend Collective and of modern Christian music.
Track list
1. A Christmas Hymn (to the tune of “Come Thou Fount”)2. The Reason
3. Christmas in Belfast (Sláinte!)
4. Mary Did You Know
5. Room At The Inn (Chris Renzema)
6. Carol Of The Bells
7. Feliz Navidad
-Album Review: "A Cosy Christmas" by Keith Harkin: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2024/12/album-review-cosy-christmas-by-keith.html