Combining elements from too many rock bands to try and mention, Falling Up releases their debut Crashings on BEC Records. Despite their sound being quite a conglomeration of styles, ant the influences unmistakable, they somehow still seem fresh.

Their fusion of rap, rock, and an almost "modern worship" influence make for an interesting sound, to say the least. It's all been done before, but not quite like this. The disc opens with "Bittersweet," a look at the struggle to let go of the things of the world and grab hold of God's love. The song gives you a first glimpse into their Linkin Park influence, which is fairly obvious on nearly every track, as well as their strength in songwriting. "Release the gate of beautiful. I am staying down to hide in rooms away. These tears, they build me up a house. Then they pour on down and wash the house away. And I am left to fight the waves."

The rest of Crashings deals with more of the same. It is always nice to see a rock band come along that speaks so freely of their faith, without feeling the need to water down the message. Falling Up deals mostly with the struggles that Christians go through on a day to day basis. The overall message of Crashings: God is always there for you, and all you have to do is reach out and embrace Him. And they relay this message through twelve delicately written tracks.

The only exception would have to be the bizarre, yet brilliant "Jackson 5." Jon Micah Sumrall from Kutless, Paul Wright, Ben Hubert, and Ryan Clark of Demon Hunter all appear on guest vocals in what makes for a very interesting four minutes of music. The track starts with raps and end in Ryan Clark's signature, though toned down, screams.

The best thing Falling Up has going for them is their versatility through all twelve tracks. Each one is very different and distinct. They mix up the many influences they use and spread it out throughout the whole disc. If true originality is your thing, Falling Up falls flat; but if you're looking for a new and exciting rock act, look no further.

- Review date: 2/17/04, written by Josh Taylor of Jesusfreakhideout.com