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Written by Faithful
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November 19, 2006 |
 Oremus is a Catholic Rock band formed by two Catholic brothers, Chris and Tom Reitz. Oremus performs good clean rock music with a Catholic message.
The band was formed in response to Pope John Paul II's call for a “New Evangelization.” Oremus tries to renew and to reclaim the image of modern music as a beautiful and creative art form, rather than as a medium for rebellion or for the culture of death. "Rock" can signify faithfulness to Peter, the Rock. Rock can also refer to building one's house on Rock, not on sand.
Oremus believes that music gives a strong message and the message Oremus sends is one of peace found through prayer and a close relationship with Our Lord. This is a message worth spreading around.
Oremus was begun in early 2004. Chris and Tom had already been performing music together for many years, including in their Catholic parish's classical choir. Because of Chris and Tom's varied musical backgrounds, they have been able to develop an original music style that borrows from and expands on many other styles. Their harmony varies from one voice to six, and the instrumentals include an impressive, unique and intricate guitar style a bit reminiscent of Michael Hedges. Keyboard sequences complement the arrangements giving them depth. The results are very polished and moving. Definitely rock, but also more.
Oremus advocates the use of their Rock music for recreation and for entertainment, while supporting the use of traditional and classical Catholic music in the Liturgy.
The first Oremus CD, self titled "Oremus", was just released in 2006 and is available through the Oremus website (www.oremusmusic.net), through CD Baby, and through iTunes (either CD or individual songs). The CD contains a collection of Catholic music spanning various rock styles, with very Catholic lyrics. The eclectic range of styles is refreshing and engaging. "Come Back" calls people back to God. "Holy Mary" is the rock version of the story found in Luke 1:40. "Your Face" describes a young person's relationship with Jesus. "Above All" is a passionate crucifixion song. "The Hero" celebrates the heroism of Christ and His saints. "Let All Mortal Flesh" is the delightful rock revision of an old traditional Catholic hymn. "Blessed Be Your Name" is an old favorite praise and worship song performed with a new arrangement. The album ends with a collection of techno songs composed in the form of a Solid State Symphony by Tom.
In the spirit of the New Evangelization, Oremus provides free music downloads of all their original compositions on the music pages of their website. Songs copyrighted by other artists are available only on the CD or through iTunes. However, it's really worthwhile to buy the CD (only $10), since the copyrighted songs, "Holy Mary," "Above All" and "Blessed Be Your Name" have fantastic new arrangements that you don't want to miss.
Oremus, together with other great Catholic groups, is at the forefront of reclaiming and redefining rock music. Their website includes many tips and advice for starting artists on how to record and how to release a CD. The website also includes lyrics, photos of past performances, links, other merchandise (Oremus T-shirts), and they even host Madison’s Rosary for the Bishop program on their website – you can sign up to pray a monthly rosary for Bishop Robert Morlino of Madison through the Oremus website.
Oremus is definitely worth checking out! Great music! Fun! Catholic to the core! Music you could really see John Paul the Great rocking to in heaven!
Incidentally, Oremus means "Let Us Pray!"
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