Customer Reviews

The Mission Bell

5 star:		(35)
4 star:		(8)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Delirious has returned after last year's hit CD World Service with the perfect follow up. The band has long had a history of hit-and-miss records (Touch wasn't a critical favorite), but they're really knocked it out of the park with this one. Mission Bell, one of their strongest efforts in years, shows the band in familiar territory while still stretching their musical palette with interesting results.

I don't know if it's just the British music sound right now or if they're paying homage to their influences, but while their other CD's gave you a glimpse of "What if U2 was a Christian band?", Mission Bell has to take the sub-title of "What if Coldplay got saved?". From the opening strains of "Stronger" you know you're in for a great album.

"Stronger" might be considered an odd choice of an opener considering the fact it doesn't just explode out of the gate right off the bat. Instead, it sets the stage for what is to follow. "Now is the Time", co-written with Matt Redman, comes next and picks things up nicely. Songs like "Solid Rock" and "Our God Reigns" have powerful choruses with the usual great guitar licks we're used to from Stu G. "Solid Rock" even treats us to a little rap bridge that works. Not what we're used to from these boys, but that's what makes this disc fun: they're stepping out of the familiar formula here and there.

"Fires Burn" could easily be called "Speed of Sound Part 2", as it sounds a lot like the Coldplay hit. As a matter of fact, "Stronger", "All This Time" and "Fires Burn" could have come from "X&Y".

The CD closes with "I'll See You". Guest vocalist Moya Brennan (Enya's sister and the lead singer of Clannad) adds a perfect touch to this quiet, reflective tune. Just as the disc ushered you into it with subdued fervor, it leads you out the same way.

Not that this is perfect. "Paint the Town Red" is a little weak compared to everything preceding it. It's not so bad as to be unbearable; it just seems a little out of place.

Some bands are content to keep the same sound forever. Others tend to change so dramatically from release to release they lose much of their fan base. Delirious has found a happy middle here, stretching the boundaries while not deviating so badly as to lose anyone. They've definitely progressed as musicians (listen to King of Fools and then pop this one in to hear the difference), while still staying loyal to the music the fans love.

There is a strong sprinkling of rockers with the more relaxed tunes. While nothing on this CD will probably ever be sung in church, this disc may live in your CD player for a while. If you're a fan of their other albums, Mission Bell is a winner. If you've never given Delirious a chance before, this is the perfect introductory CD to them. Fans of Coldplay, U2, Radiohead, and The Listening should grab a copy.

bear with me.. i'd describe shane&shane's music as the passion of a Christian's walk with God.. david crowder band as the joy.. and delirious? as the fire/fiery passion(?) for God.. as God's army.. true.. the songs sound the same.. if ur mindlessly listening to the music while taking the train home.. but these songs have lyrics for a reason.. and what heart-felt lyrics they are.. honestly.. i don't think i could have appreciated this album or delirious?'s heavy hand in the rock genre if i didn't see them in concert.. which is when i saw the heart that was behind every word sung and note played.. which is when i saw the sincerity pass the fog machine and professional lighting.. for a band that could so easily get caught up in themselves and their own glory.. delirious is a breath of fresh air during at time when more and more artists dance over the line of Christian and/or mainstream artists.. delirious? never hides the fact that they love God.. that they are here for God.. and all that they do is for the glory of their Heavenly Father.. now that's how it should be done.. also reading the background on the songs while listening to them is quite moving.. especially for "i'll see you" and "miracle maker" ([...].. scroll to the bottom)

This CD is great and is one of my favorites. This band has yet to let me down; they have originality without sacrificing real purpose in their lyrics and real artistry in their sound.

That being said, every album has to be criticized fairly, so I'll mention the ups and downs, in a song by song review.

1. Stronger
This is one of the best written songs, and one of my favorites on the album. It will be a favorite for those who appreciate great songwriting and a truly heartfelt song. The melody and chords remind me of a Beatles type songcraft. However, this song would not be a favorite for those who only enjoy a heavy rock riff, as it is led by an acoustic guitar. What I love most is that Delirious went against the grain and began the album with a deep-reaching song, rather than most CDs you will notice begin with a heavier, louder, simpler song.
2. Now is the Time
This is a anthem type rock track. This song certainly stands out in its adrenalized motivation. After hearing Stronger, you know that this album's approach is serious. Now is the Time sets the album up lyrically, calling us each to action immediately, rather than putting some of the most important issues in our lives off to tomorrow. There is an earlier demo version of this song, which has a more laid-back verse sound, but sometimes I prefer it actually. Personally, I like the bridge from the original version. The Chorus does U2 style justice and then some. Matt Redman co-wrote on this one.
3. Solid Rock
What I love most about this track is that it goes even further into "never been done before" by Delirious. It certainly sounds like no other song they've put out before, and it was done quite well. When I hear this music I can picture news video clips flashing all around. It impresses me that they made a great modern song out of an ancient hymn without really changing anything about it, but simply adding to it tastefully. TobyMac guest appears on this one, and I'm not into HipHop but I can say as a Rock fan it still grows on you, regardless. This should make a great live song, as it's another anthemic song with a loud Chorus and a great build-up to each Chorus. I wouldn't recommend this song for people who just want classic Delirious/rock tracks. There is some guest guitar from Jars of Clay.
4. All This Time
This is a great "hit song" sound. At the beginning, the guitar actually reminds me of Blink 182 - I Miss You. It doesn't sound like a carbon copy, but it's amazing because I never thought I'd compare Delirious to any such band. It has a more spacioius sound than previous tracks, using less to make more. Martin sings low on this one, which is great to hear once in awhile. This one is a good track to hear to bring you out of the hole you've been digging yourself. The Chorus is great, the middle-section/bridge guitar is a bit strange at first listen, but after my ears got used to it, I think it sounds right. There's a really cool build-up back into the chorus where vocals are mixed low and all of the music just seems washed together... This is a good thing, it sounds like hearing it underwater in concept, but not exactly. This is a great song, but perhaps not as rocking or loud as some people might want, or people they don't prefer the "hit song" Chorus sound.
5. Miracle Maker
This is yet again another "never been done before" song by Delirious. It's quite unique, as it uses the piano as the central instrument, beginning with a whisper-like voice and light classical sounding piano. The guitar and Choir come in, and it starts to reminisce some Queen actually. These guys are amazingly versatile. The lead guitar sounds like nothing ever before from Stu G. You'd think they had a guest guitarist. This definitely a darker sounding song, but the message just proclaims a desperation for God, and it does that message justic with the sound. The vocals and piano are great on this track, and it's an essential part of the album. However, sometimes I will skip this track as it is off the beaten path and its great when you want to hear it, and when you're in the mood for a more happy/exciting song, it's way too much in the other direction with its sound.
6. Here I am Send Me
This is one of my favorites on the album. Maybe it's my actual favorite. I've never wanted to skip this song, and it never ceases to get me singing. This, like Inside/Outside from World Service, splits the Verse and Chorus between the guitarist Stu G and singer Martin Smith. It's really great, as it's held up by a really strong sounding guitar playing a sort of bass riff, rather than chords. It has nice layers of guitars, which I think most people will appreciate whether they recognize that or not. It's a great chorus, and the bridge is a great part. A very original sound, but it sounds like Delirious at some of their best, and the build-up has a very unique sound, probably of Tim Jupp on the keyboards. This also has some of my favorite lead guitar by Stu G in any Delirious song ever.
7. Fires Burn
This song is great. It's a constant build up to a loud Chorus with exceptionally great sounding vocals by Martin Smith. The drums are different in this track from just about any other on the album, making more use of a tribal sound making use of the toms and such. There's an interesting sounding guitar at the beginning, and the piano melody fits perfectly. These are the songs that dub the band U2 references, as the Chorus of the song is just that great.
8. Our God Reigns
This is a song you would listen to in the same attitude as Miracle Maker. The sound and lyrics are quite different. This is another step off the path for delirious, as the lyrics are quite direct, and say a lot of things that are hard to say about todays bad news all over the world. There's a lot of ambient noise, sounds, voices... and this is one song that might bring you to tears. My favorite part is the Bridge and end Chorus, it really takes off. The verses might let you down at times, as itsounds a bit broken, as its supposed to, but still is sometimes difficult to get into.
9. Love is a Miracle
This has a bit of gospel sound in it. The Chorus is solid, and the verses are tight. I would say the bridge came out strangely, as there's some guest speaking but you really can't hear what he's saying. It's a good track, but probably doesn't have as much replay value as most of the tracks do. This one really makes Church feel like home again, a real unifying song. Who can deny it? Love is a miracle.
10. Paint the Town Red
This is a great song. I've never heard such a raw edge song from the band before. I knew they had it in them. I can't wait to hear this song live. It's probably the shortest song they've ever had, but all the more time to play it over again! It's definitely different, and I wasn't sure about it at first, but then it's become of their best. Straight up rock, folks. You may not like this song if you want a more wholistic, progressive sounding song.
11. Take Off My Shoes
This song and Here I am Send Me are my the top two for me. This song starts with a nice piano. This one will really lift you out of your shoes. This song was improvised a bit in the studio, so it does what Glo did, and really touches you with some great music that moves your spirit. The vocals are great, and I love the line "I hear you singing". I hope I'm right about that one, because it really made me feel great. There's some great sounding guitar in this, and it's just comes together nicely. This is a must-hear song for those who haven't even heard Delirious before.
12. I'll See You
This song is definitely a lullaby, but it's sad. This is about a miscarried child, and about meeting that child in Heaven. There is some guest vocals on this, and it captures a the sound of Heaven. It is truly a lullaby, you can sleep peacefully after hearing this song. It's a great close to the album, but perhaps not something you want to listen to before the end of the day.

I give the album five stars, because it is one of my favorites, and it does inspire you to sing along, and to go out and see the band live. This is one of their best, and I don't say that about every new album by bands I like. Check out some free full tracks on http://www.myspace.com/themissionbell. Love and Peace, God Bless. DFR

This is my fave album of all time. I'm a big fan of Third day and Jars of Clay, and I liked Delerious?, but was a little put off by the way all their songs sounded the same. Well, they certainly solved that problem!!!

I was at their concert in Belfast last summer when they played a few of these songs, and I knew this album was gonna be spectacular.

It lived up to my expectations, a truly inspired work of God glorifying art!

Go paint YOUR town red. . .

This recording is addictive ( the more you play it,the more you want to play it )! Its alittle different then some of their past recordings, but thats what we want right? Yes, you can still hear that delirious sound that made them famous, but as you listen to this recording, you can tell that these guys love music, life, and the love of God very strong! I wouldn't say that one should make this their only album nore make this a starting album to Delirious either! Get ahold of some of their early recordings for that ( "GLO" is a good one ) and then you can work up to this. However, the sooner you start building you libary of Delirious, the sooner you will have this in your hands and it receives great attention to anyone that will listen to it and loves God as well! Its a hit in my libary and as far as I'm concerned Rock On!!! Thanks guys!

I have been a Delirious? fan for a couple of years now, and I have listened to many of their albums (almost all), however I consider the Mission Bell one of their best, if not, THE BEST album so far. It has the most diverse selection of music. From the classical opening to "Stronger", to the hip-hop sequece in "Solid Rock", to the gospel choir in "Love is a Miracle", and the pure rock sound that makes Delirious? who they are, it has the perfect selection for everyone. It is truely a God-inspired album, and the presence of the Holy Spirit is felt through the lyrics in the album. Delirous? has once again made a significant impact in the world of Christian Music.

This is a totally new experience with Delirious as the band continues to create new music for praise and worship. This album filled with songs of all kinds, spreading love of God. "Stronger" and songs like "All This Time", "Miracle Maker", "Our God Reigns" and "I'll See You" are brand new feelings that gives u a soothing yet strong feeling. It gives a pleasant feeling unable to describe, just like the words of God. Besides that, songs that really rock your heart will be "Now is The Time", "Solid Rock" and "Paint The Town Red". "Now is The Time" guest written by Matt Redman and also cello solo by Gerard Le-Feuvre in "Our God Reigns". Totally worth buying CD! You'll just love it just as I do.

Mission Bell is Delirious's eight studio album and in my opinion is everything you would expect from the group. It combines exciting music with deep challenges and messages to our hearts.
The first track Stronger which is on the Narnia Chronicles complilation grows on you declaring the way of unity and love.

The second track Now is the time sets the tone for the whole cd and encourages the church to live our lives now for God as he is alive and we need to take responsibility for the call of God on our lives. Also encourages christians saying that we do make a difference in all our community's we live in.

The third track Solid Rock, which features Toby Mac, declares the intent to stand our ground and stand firm in this world at the present time with all the different troubles.

The fourth track All This Time is about us christians serving God and how it is our time to do his call and be his window to the world.

The fifth track Miracle Maker is about being healed and how we can finally meet god. A very moving song with powerful lyrics that give me goose bumps when I listen to it.

The sixth track Here I Am Send Me is about christians only needing one tiny glimpse of God and how we all need to say "Here I Am Send Me" out into the world God.

The seventh track Fires Burn focuses on Jesus's return how heaven is our detination and one day soon Jesus will come in the clouds and take all his followers home.

The eighth track Our God Reigns discuses issues in the world such as abortion, aids, obsession with self. It is a admission that we have watched and done little to be part of the solution and that we have a great God that reigns even when some aspects have failed to bring God into society.

The ninth track Love Is A Miracle is a song of redemption a celebration of finding God and his miraclous love.

The tenth track Paint The Town Red is a brilliant anthem about the blood of Jesus and how we christians are the army of God and are ready to die.

The eleventh track Take Of My Shoes underlies God's unfailing love for us and his cry for us.

Finally the last track on the album I'll See You is such a haunting song featuring Moya Breannan sounding like an angel singing a Gaelic prayer and is about meeting Jesus face to face.

The 12 songs on The Mission Bell illustrates how Delirious have effectively stretched the boundaries of worship music with out loosing its audience in the process and gives christian faith in these troubled times. It is a very addictive album and definitely is a must have in your collection. Review by Rachel Carlisle.

Delirious? is one of the few Christian artists I really enjoy. Most Christian music is pretty cookie-cutter with predictable ballad-type music and straightforward (and often shallow) lyrics. That stuff I can't listen to, but Delirious? has gone beyond and makes real music, with their own definite, intense sound. Frankly, they can hold their own with U2, but they'll never get the same huge audience because their lyrics are explicitly "Jesus freak" Christian -- which is a great thing.

"The Mission Bell" is their latest effort. I've heard it said here that it has a Coldplay sound. I don't know about Coldplay, having given up on radio a long time ago; what I do know is that this is an 'in your face' Christian album. "Solid Rock" takes the old hymn and gives it a great new spin. "All This Time" is an intense U2ish song about keeping the faith despite public pressure. "Paint the Town Red" is a mission song about our mission as believers -- an incredible single with an indelible chorus; "We're gonna paint this big ol' town red/ With the blood of Jesus Christ". The best is next-to-last: "Take Off My Shoes" is about experiencing the immediate presence of God -- are you ready for that? Our hearts will be both purified and excited beyond our imagination on that day we see Him; may we taste that now in our devotional times.

D? continues to show the world that their spirituality is mature, thoughtful, and above all worshipful; while also showing the world that they can ROCK with the best of them. Keep up the good work gentlemen.

Listen to it loud!

I thought that Delirious truly returned to greatness with World Service, and was a little worried they might have another step backwards with Mission Bell...but my concerns were misplaced. On this CD, Delirious continues cranking out great modern Christian music with a definite edge.

Much like most recent U2 albums, not all the songs on Mission Bell are great, but there are some truly outstanding ones. I give it five stars for the following five songs:

1. Now is the time - may be their best song ever
2. Solid Rock - creative presentation of a classic hymn
3. Here I am Send Me - great riff and powerful energy
4. Love is a Miracle - slow, worship, with strong message
5. Paint this town Red - kicks it up a notch

I have to admit that U2 remains my favorite band of all-time, but Delirious is giving them a run for their money these days. I think this UK Christian band is outperforming Bono and the boys this decade. If you enjoy Delirious, you will enjoy this album - must buy.