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McDermott's candor and imagery is admittedly unconventional by Christian music standards. But he insists that honesty is the best policy. "I'm not embarrassed of [the times I've fallen]," he says, "and writing about them almost seems therapeutic. I'm scared, lonely, desperate, struggling, hurting and wounded. My songs aren't musically complex, but they come from challenging places and I won't be afraid to show off that side in concert, even though they may not be that sunny."

McDermott adapts biblical imagery again in the harmonica-doused "Tread Lightly," pointing a finger of caution at anyone wallowing in self-pity: "This water ain't holy/That bird ain't a dove/When the road gets darkest/Tread lightly my love/When your heart gets heavy/With what you've been in fear of/When you need some surrender/Tread lightly my love." The simple acoustic ballad "Broken" is also loaded with clear-cut expressions of faith, pleading to "say a prayer tonight for the broken."

Noise For Words has drawn a variety of listeners from varying spiritual backgrounds, ranging from seekers to the devout. But despite the spiritual conversations he's shared with fans after concerts, don't expect him to make the leap to the Christian music market anytime soon.

"EMI almost pushed to have me try the Christian thing or at least distribute my music [to those stores]," shares McDermott. "But it just didn't seem to be Christian enough, even though [mainstream] rock fans sometimes think it's too Christian! I always felt in between without a home. I'd be curious to try it, but I just don't know if I could [really fit]."

McDermott's most recent tour isn't only about the music. He also works some speaking dates into his schedule, going into greater depth explaining the new songs and the personal stories that shaped them—including many of the aforementioned temptations and personal demons. He warns that his story comes from a vulnerable place that doesn't sugarcoat the truth, and that it's a much more forward presentation than the average Christian industry speaker.

"So many times [you'll see a speaker] and they'll give their testimony and then say 'everything's great,'" notices McDermott. "Sometimes when you hear those, they can make you feel worse and emptier because your heart is still broken in a million little pieces. Everything is not great with me [because temptation is will always be there]. But it's great to be able to share my story and hopefully help others."

That story has been an essential component of McDermott's songwriting that helps meet listeners where they're at, offering a personal example of hope in the midst of a gradual and continual process. Though he'll be the first to admit the walk isn't always easy, Noise For Words is a tangible example of the troubadour turning over a new leaf and letting each future step be dictated by faith.

Unless specified clearly, we are not implying whether this artist is or is not a Christian. The views expressed are simply the author's. For a more complete description of our Glimpses of God articles, click here

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