When I’m not writing stories about Salvos across Australia, I typically spend my days writing about Christian music. I love (most) Christian music, so this has its perks. But I’m frequently reminded just how inaccessible contemporary Christian music often feels to other Christians.
Some people are over repeating songs every Sunday and are sick of the same chord progression or phrases. And many feel ostracised from typical worship tunes because they don’t identify with the churches or big bands that produce them.
If that’s you then I think I can help you out – because there are plenty of lesser-known bands, churches and people changing the face of worship music – not only turning our hearts and minds towards Christ but empowering us towards action as well. Here are five of my favourites.
The Brilliance
This duo is the perfect blend of exquisite musicality and sound theology, and it always comes together with a call to action. Pastor David Gungor and composer John Arndt left a big Christian music label because they wanted their music to speak clearly about justice – and they don’t hold back. From worship anthems like ‘Turning Over Tables’ to reflective songs about the environment, immigration and human connection, they are some of the very best in Christian music. Connect with The Brilliance here.
Orphan No More (pictured)
They are young, diverse, and they’re not Australian (a rarity in Christian music, let’s be honest!). This UK-based music collective pair social justice and worship, using their music to navigate grief, justice, and adoration. Their latest album, Even Now, was written after they lost their friend to cancer – and it culminates in one of the most authentic expressions of worship I have heard for a while. Connect with Orphan No More here.
VERSES
Salvos make a big deal about VERSES because the trio comes from North Lakes Salvation Army in Sydney – but the fuss is completely warranted. Jess, Joel and Luke O’Dea have managed to make the ‘modern-day memory verse’ accessible, theologically sound, and relevant. Their songs are perfect for a youth group, a road trip or background noise, and sound like the best of Top 40 radio – but with the message of Jesus. Connect with VERSES here.
Maverick City Music
This incredible band is a movement that is slowly transforming Christian music to become more diverse, Holy Spirit-led and soulful. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, they are prolific songwriters and call on the innermost human experiences to worship God. Maverick City is collaborative and carries a ‘work hard, play hard’ vibe that young people love. But beyond that, it’s their anointing that captures you. You could use any of these songs for corporate worship and shape them to fit your congregation. Connect with Maverick City Music here.
Him + Her Worship
Seth and Jenna Heirlich are a dynamite married couple, who create acoustic, folk worship masterpieces. With an emphasis on storytelling, their songs are honest about the struggles of life, but still point to the hope we have in God. Their latest EP, Even in the Dark, blends Scripture with stories about a family members battle with cancer. Your personal worship time with be all the better for hearing Him + Her Worship. Connect with Him + Her Worship here.