Review - Delirious’ Mission Bell
This review is a long time coming for a band that I grew up with and changed my whole outlook on what worship music could be, and should be like. When Delirious? first came out with their Cutting Edge albums it was like an epiphany to what worship music should be like: wholesome, and cutting edge, innovative, and lyrically dynamite.
Over the last ten years they’ve put out quite a few albums and Mission Bell stands out, well, like a city on a hill. Retaining its raw power from the albums such as GLO, and Mezzamorphis, this album lays its claim and probably the most diverse and cohesive album yet. Stylistically, they’ve come a long way from their humble beginnings. They’ve gone through what I call a “Miles Davis-like experimental period” and though many listeners were left stranded, they’ve been able to incorporate that into something their core fanbase can enjoy.
Since the stories behind these songs are posted here, I won’t elaborate on the content but go over stylistically why I think this is their best album to date.
Solid Rock - This song is quite a unique departure from the Deliroius of the past, but dang, I love the Dobro intro, which definitely gives this song a “I’m a cowboy ready to kick butt” attitude. And with the crashing of the cymbals at the chorus, it does not disappoint.
All This Time - If you had a chance to view my playlist on iTunes you’d notice that I’ve probably played this song about 50 times already. I know it’s similar to U2’s Numb, but I love the droning! I love the droning!
Here I Am Send Me - Did I say I like droning? This song’s got it too, with the doubling of vocals really adds to that effect. Really its militaristic straight-beat feel helps add the effect that we’re ready to march to the orders of the Host of Hosts.
Fires Burn - This is another great song that opens similar to “Investigate”. And yes, if you haven’t noticed yet, they definitely have a strong Brit-rock influence.
Love is a Miracle - Choirs add a special something to a piece doesn’t it? This tune definitely has a cheeriness and openess that reflects the name of the song.
I’ll See You - A simple tune that carries strong undertones, with a wonderful angelic touch to help set our eyes above.
Rating: [4.75/5] There are only two Delirious? albums that I would award this rating to, and this is one of them. A great mix of style and substance, this album has been able to put together a puzzle that the previous albums were only able to together. So yes, go buy it.
If you’re wondering what the other album I’d give 4.75 stars to, check it out here. THE BEST live worship album I’ve listened to, no, experienced, bar none.
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