Coming out of Ireland in 2015 before moving to the US, We Are Messengers are a breath of fresh air in the CCM world. A mix of NEEDTOBREATHE and 21 Pilots, Darren Mulligan brings an emotive baritone to bear on their distinct flavor of pop-rock.
Their newest album, Power+, kicks off with the funk/soul piano-infused title track, immediately setting the tone and sending the message that this isn’t your typical Christian pop act.
Home, another standout track, shifts again into a Mumford and Sons vibe with stripped-down acoustic guitar, thundering drum and even taps into their Celtic roots with stirring strings and flute.
Lyrically, the faith message comes through crystal clear, as Mulligan sings:
We’re bringing hope to the streets
There’s a new way, a better life
Only one can set the captive free.
I’m also struck by how Mulligan writes with so much honesty and intimacy, as he sings in Home:
I’d been running, Lord knows how long
And I couldn’t escape all the things that I’d done
You met my troubles with a beautiful love
And you showed me mercy when I deserved none.
Knowing Mulligan’s personal story of redemption, songs like Home and Knock Me Down hit especially hard. Living the rock star life with all its vices before coming to Christ, Mulligan also knows rock bottom. But his past also gives him exceptional opportunity to speak with conviction and experience to thousands of listeners about the redeeming work of Jesus, as he sings:
Rise up, lift your head
Rise up, we’re coming back from the dead.
If you’re looking for something different, Power+ is a rousing mix of pop rock that will satisfy fans of more alternative outfits like 21 Pilots, looking for a more overtly worship experience.
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