Following the departure of frontman Caleb Oliver,
Decyfer Down enlisted the talents of T.J. Harris -- former vocalist for North Carolina's
Fighting Instinct -- to fill the gap. Harris proves to be a nice addition to the group, as his voice comprises equal parts grungy grit and passionate, God-fearing catharsis.
Decyfer Down take strength in that presence, and Crash aligns itself with albums by such similarly styled bands as
Puddle of Mudd and
Breaking Benjamin. Heavy guitars and fist-pumping, carpe diem lyrics are championed by all of those groups, and at no point does Crash sound like the work of an overtly Christian outfit.
Decyfer Down's spiritual message hasn't waned, yet it has been thoroughly integrated into a familiar formula of minor-key verses, anthemic choruses, and studio-enhanced guitar crunch. If those post-grunge tropes are your cup of tea, then consider Crash a worthy addition to your collection. ~ Andrew Leahey