AMID CHANGES, THE BAND MOVES FORWARD
Citing personal issues, founding member and vocalist Caleb Oliver left Decyfer Down last year, leaving some question about the future of the band. After all, several rock bands have attempted to change the most pivotal position on stage and in studio and never recovered. And this early into a band’s career, even a replacement as talented as T.J. Harris might not be enough.
However, a quick look at the news section of Decyfer Down’s Web site reveals a band continuing to climb, and listening to Crash only bolsters that belief. The alternative rock tunes present here build impressively upon the success of the band’s debut, End of Grey, leading one to expect as many hit singles as the last time around (four No.1 songs released from Grey).
Paul Ebersol’s direction (Skillet, 3 Doors Down) guides the material to radio-worthy levels, especially on the title track, particularly ripe for commercial placement. “Best I Can” holds the bleeding heart that bands like Hinder and Nickelback ride to the top of the charts.
“Better Life” riffs off the bat with impressive energy but quickly gives way to more mid-tempo territory that should become another solid radio entry for the band. It’s a lyrical nod to “saying goodnight to all that I thought I knew” and leaving a life of sin behind—which will work well on Christian rock radio. Meanwhile, the acoustic “Moving On” diversifies Crash’s content, proving Harris’ vocal sounds are equally at home on slower tracks.
Even after the insane ride Decyfer Down members must feel they’ve been on, Crash only cements the band’s status as one to watch. If anything, it’s the much-needed assurance that everything will be alright. —Matt Conner
