Thrash band with a Christian ethos

The heavy metal five piece are one of the loudest bands you're ever likely to hear, but beneath the pounding drums, thrashing guitars and rasping vocals is a Christian message.

But it's not a message the band want to ram down people's throats.

"We don't preach," said Mark Payne, the band's bass player, who hails from Magheralin.

"If you picked up the CD you'd think it was the same as any other thrash metal band. We don't force the Christian message down anyone's throat.

"We do have our beliefs and we do talk about them. But it's only a small part of our music."

For Christ Sake's debut EP draws comparison with experienced thrashers like Carcass and Napalm Death. They can also turn their hands to contemporary metal, best showcased in 'Sleep'. This multi-facted four-track EP has as much to offer non-Christian thrashers as those listeners of a Christian background.

Mark, 36, grew up on a diet of Metallica, Slayer and Anthrax.

"Christianity is something fairly recent for me," explained Mark. "About six years ago I saw 'The Passion Of The Christ' and realised I really needed to do something."

In 2004 Mark joined Band Of Brothers with drummer Rab (Seraphim), who is also in For Christ Sake. He also began doing outreach work.

Mark, who is married to Jenny, has three children - Lukas (3), Nikolas (6) and Kristoffer (18).

He goes to Hillsborough Elim Church while the rest of the band are members of the Orthodox church. The ages in the band range from 19 to 37.

"Myself and Rab are the old heads," said Mark, who is friendly with Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante and has met Metallica.

For Christ Sake's self-produced debut EP 'Death Is But A Breath Away' is available now.

Visit their website myspace.com/forchristsake1 for more details.