Most of the members of Among Thorns, (Matt Gilder, Darin Sasser, Brandon Eller, Gary Ishee and David Childress), who are originally from Texas, have been playing together for nearly 6 years. In 2001, they said good-bye to their lead singer, and a new lead vocalist Chad Jarnagin joined them, bringing new energy and creativity to their music, which is very much evident in their newly released third CD, DRAW NEAR. "The changes have opened new doors for the band, inspiring them to explore more creative avenues with their music."

They started out being a band for a Bible study, becoming the house band for the Metro Bible Study in Houston, unknowingly beginning their 6 year music worship ministry that reaches out to not only high school and college Youth, but for an expanding audience of a variety of ages.

During these six years, the band feels that the Lord was busy preparing them for His service, growing their personal spirituality and musical abilities, so that in His timing they would be prepared to carry out their music ministry that He was calling them to become involved with.

Darin Sasser, Matt Gilder and Chad offer the following testimonies explaining the Lord's involvement in the band's development in these areas, in His perfect timing.

"I don't think any of us really planned to grow up and be worship leaders, but God changed the desires of all our hearts. After six years together, we're like family. God has polished and buffed and cut and pruned us to get us to the point in our lives where we know that music is just a vehicle that we can ride. It's just a small thing that God can use in us. " -Darin Sasser.

"God had everything to do with the timing of Among Thorns. People are so hungry right now. There are a lot of things happening that are drawing both kids and adults into worship. The biggest thing that keeps me going is watching people experiencing God in a new way".- Matt Gilder.

" God is working in us tangibly as well as spiritually. He has brought us songs that have not only come from a different place musically, but also from hearts that God has changed." - Chad Jarnagin.