The Thirsting is a 5 piece Catholic alternative/rap/rock band from Vancouver, Washington with a heart for Catholic evangelization. Under the direction of band leader Daniel Oberreuter, The Thirsting offers cutting edge Catholic music that speaks to the youth of today. Lyrically, there is no other band in the Catholic music world that teaches about the Truths of the Catholic faith like The Thirsting. From confession to the Eucharist, the Trinity to Mary and from addictions of sin to freedom in Christ, The Thirsting offers songs that reflect on the whole meaning of being Catholic and living in Christ’s one holy Church.
On stage, The Thirsting rivals secular acts in energy and emotion as they proclaim the Catholic faith. With Oberreuter fronting the group and setting the pace for an all out high energy driven performance, The Thirsting offers something never seen before in live Catholic music. Oberreuter is accompanied on stage by Matt Lambrecht (guitar/keys), Mike Jackson (lead guitar), Brady Patterson (bass), and Vlad Kobylnik (drums). Together this 5 piece group will keep your eyes moving and your heart pounding as they play songs from there new album Companions of the Lamb.
Companions of the Lamb, the group's first full length album, is a true gem in the world of Catholic music. The album blasts off with the in your face, Trinity rocker, “In the Name of the Father” which sets the pace of the album and the catholicity of the band. The CD then concludes with the closing piece, “I Have Fought the Good Fight” which summarizes the entire CD as an exposition on living courageously the Catholic faith. Below is a short description of each song:
In the Name of the Father - This is the opening song to the album and it grabs the listeners attention right off the bat. With a pounding guitar line and in your face rap vocals, “In the Name of the Father” is a sure crowd pleaser. Lyrically it focuses on the Trinity from a Catholic perspective.
I Am Not Worthy - Originally recorded on the No Greater Love EP, “I Am Not Worthy” takes the refrain of a Catholic liturgical action into a modern day rock song. With a catchy melody and Oberreuter’s aggressive lyrical style, I am not Worthy highlights the sacrament of the Eucharist.
Ball and Chain - Lyrically challenging and at the same time a masterpiece sonically. “Ball and Chain” rides on modern alternative guitar sounds to create a driving song that stabs at the listeners heart. The song lyrically contrast Americas idea of freedom with our slavery to sin. “Your freedom is your ball and chain.”
Christ Have Mercy - “Christ have Mercy” addresses the founder of Planned Parenthood and her extreme racial agenda against Black Americans. This song was written to show the roots of Planned Parenthood as a means for racial cleansing. The song shows well the gravity of the sin of abortion and cries out in its refrain, “Christ have Mercy!”
Fight the Fight - surfer/pop/punk all in one with the climax of Oberreuter proclaiming that he will not back down to what God calls him to give up. This song is certainly one of the most catchy on the album. A great listen and a great message for all.
In This Sacrament - With a pounding rhythm and beat, “In this Sacrament” is a must listen mixing rap and melody in one song. Lyrically Oberreuter points out the great need for confession and the roots of it in the New Testament. A must have for youth and adults.
Ocean of Mercy - Inspired by the writings of St. Faustina, “Ocean of Mercy” highlights the vast greatness of God’s love and mercy for the entire world and Jesus’ desire to call all home to himself. Beginning with piano, “Ocean of Mercy” captivates the listeners ear throughout the entire song.
Come Hold My Son - The most beloved song on the album by many which focuses on the lives of Jesus and his mother Mary. Always a requested song at concerts and one of the most moving songs written about Jesus and his mother. Oberreuter is joined by guest vocalist Meagan King.
Companions of the Lamb - The title track of the album, “Companions of the Lamb” has one of the most inspiring melodies ever written and adds to that deep theological lyrics. “Companions of the Lamb” takes the listener to the depths of the greatness of following Jesus in the midst of the pain of our every day lives. “We will follow wherever he goes.”
Hail Holy Queen - Old school Catholic, new school sound.
I Have Fought the Good Fight - The closer of the album, originally written by Oberreuter’s mother Joanne Oberreuter. This song was the last song recorded live after a long day in the studio and was a last minute addition to the album. A fitting end to an inspiring CD. Fight the good fight, finish the race, keep the faith.