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Rend Collective is a Northern Irish Christian folk worship band known for their energetic, community-driven sound and organic instrumentation.Formed in Bangor, Northern Ireland, around 2002 initially as a college prayer group called 'Rend', the band evolved into Rend Collective Experiment (later shortened to Rend Collective). Founding members included Gareth Gilkeson (drums/vocals) and his wife Ali Gilkeson (vocals/percussion). They gained international recognition with albums like 'Homemade Worship by Handmade People' and 'The Art of Celebration', characterized by folk-rock instrumentation and themes of communal joy and authentic faith. They tour extensively globally.

• The name 'Rend' originates from the Bible verse Joel 2:13: 'Rend your heart and not your garments', signifying a call to genuine, internal transformation rather than outward show.
• Their early recordings were famously DIY, often captured spontaneously in living rooms, barns, and other unconventional locations, contributing to their 'homemade' aesthetic.
• The band intentionally dropped 'Experiment' from their name around 2016, feeling it no longer reflected their established identity and sound.
• They are known for involving their live audiences deeply, often encouraging communal singing and creating a celebratory, inclusive atmosphere at concerts.