Falling Up - Exit Lights

Reviewed by Chris Sharp

Albany, Oregon-based Falling Up are not a band to be boxed in to a particular genre. That is evident from this latest offering, which is largely a collection of remixes from their previous albums 'Dawn Escapes' (2006) and 'Crashings' (2004) but with a strong supporting cast including Toby Mac, Rachael Lampa and Thousand Foot Krutch's Trevor McNevan. Whilst their full-on blend of guitar-driven rock/rap is still prevalent in this release, you will also hear a more diverse mix of trip-hop beats, electronica and orchestral style arrangements. This is a pretty unique blend the likes of which few have been able to successfully pull-off before; Earthsuit's 'Kaleidescope Superior' in particular comes to mind and "Searchlights" is a clear nod in that direction. There are three new tracks on this album including the opener "Islander", then the atmospheric instrumental interludes "Circlewinds" and "Third Lake" which both feel somewhat like the eye of the hurricane, moments of calm before the full force of the storm returns. Now signed to Tooth & Nail a new album release is due this year, which based on 'Exit Lights' should definitely be one to add to your music shopping list.