Out of Russellville, Arkansas comes Deas Vail. Originally signed to Rambler Records, they were readying the release of their debut All the Houses Look the Same, when Brave New World Records came along and took them, as well as The Wedding, under their wing. Sadly for fans of the fledging band, the album was canceled before it was released. But now, with a new label, they have prepared an EP, featuring three tracks from the canceled debut and two new cuts.

Deas Vail's sound can most easily be compared to that of Mae's. The instrumentals, and especially the vocals, give it a very ambient, space-y feel as well. It's experimental in a sense, but technically tight in most aspects. It's loud when it's soft, and soft when it's loud, finding a place somewhere between thrilling and soothing.

Instruments aside, Wes Blaylock's voice is, simply put, remarkable. It would be wrong to say that it carries this EP, because the ever-varying musical arrangements (pianos, strings…etc.) keep you peaceably on the edge of your seat. Suffice it to say that they're both above par, and perfectly complement each other. Blaylock's vocal range is stunning and provides for a "no barriers" approach to song crafting that shines through with brilliant colors.

Musicianship isn't the only thing bold about these guys. Lyrically, their faith speaks loud and clear. Whether writing about our role in affecting the current generation, or realizing the strength God provides for tasks so taxing, Deas Vail has a way with words, and the power of the music gives the message of the lyrics an even deeper meaning.

As catchy as it is powerful, Collapse is a record from a rare breed of musicians that have that special something that makes you say, "Now that's good." These guys are going places, and the sooner you know about it, the better. I greatly anticipate a full-length release in the hopefully-not-so-distant future.

- Review date: 09/10/06, written by Josh Taylor