So Much for Substitutes
downhere, Word/Warner
A rock band with the soul of a poet, downhere set its artistic bar high from the start. With its savvy lyrics and sharp musicality, the Canadian group caught the Christian music world by surprise in 2001 with its self-titled album. It has since lived up to its reputation with last year’s So Much for Substitutes. The album won a Dove Award for Modern Rock Recorded Song of the Year for the track "Breaking Me Down" and has received a Juno Award nomination for Contemporary Christian/ Gospel Album of the Year.
Setting out to "explain in our art what being a Christian is" by being "as deeply layered as possible," according to vocalist/songwriter Jason Germain, downhere manages to shun formulas while keeping its songs accessible. In the vein of such influences as Coldplay, Pearl Jam and Radiohead, the group infuses guitar-driven rock with introspective lyrics that touch on subjects from depression to the apathy of the church to the barriers that separate us from God. From the smooth "Starspin" and "Iliad" to the crunchier "What It’s Like," So Much for Substitutes poses a challenge to Christian complacency while gracefully expressing, in the words of drummer Jeremy Thiessen, the "struggles and joys of human existence." downhere brings the message home with flair.
Christianity Today named "So Much for Substitues" to its list of the top 12 Christian albums for 2003.
CT says "We showered this band's 2001 debut with acclaim. That was no fluke, as evidenced by this solid follow-up, and they prove so without recording the same album twice. A terrific live act, downhere has successfully translated their concert sound to the studio by presenting more aggressive guitar rock. The band is strong in every way, from the solid rhythm of bass and drums, to the excellent guitars and impressive vocals of both lead singers. Their strong material is infectious in melody while striking a perfect balance of faith and artistry in the lyrics. "
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downhere
downhere, Word/Warner
This critically-acclaimed debut from downhere sparkles. Easily one of the best Christian albums in 2001 from a new artist.Christianity Today calls this release "a rock solid debut rooted in eclecticism and stellar musicianship, guaranteed to be the beginning of an ongoing career for downhere."Reviewer Andy Argyrakis says "make sure to grab a copy of their debut, destined to make the best-of-the-year list for many critics, including this one. "
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