StorySide:B boasts an interesting history. When comprised of only vocalist/guitarist Lucio "Lu" Rubino and drummer Jordan Mohilowski, the duo took first place in the band division of the "Exalting Him" talent contest. Shortly thereafter, they began working on an EP, added three more members to the mix, and even watched their song "More To This Life" become a major hit on the Air1 radio network. And for the impressive part? All of that occurred before signing with Gotee Records. Now this fivesome is on the heels of their major label debut Everything and More.

Given the group's early success, it leaves much to wonder how Everything and More stacks up against StorySide:B's Christian rock counterparts. Unfortunately this seems to be where the band missteps. With the first listen of the pounding guitar riffs and clanging cymbals of "Hold Me Down," it appears almost immediately that this quintet bought into nearly predictable musical styles and lyrical content. Lines such as "You're not alone/ You're not alone/ Even though you feel so far from home... If you just stop and look around/ You're not the only one" ("You're Not Alone") and "A miracle is in my hand/ I hope I don't throw it away again" ("Miracle") leave much to be desired. This comes as a great disappointment too, since as the project progresses, it's easy to get the feeling that StorySide:B is capable of far greater things than that which is shown here.

Despite some of Everything and More seeming to be a letdown, this album has its high points that shine brightly. "It's Not Over," which happens to be the band favorite from the project, reminds listeners of the importance of consistent spiritual growth in the Christian life. The song that first introduced StorySide:B to the masses, "More To This Life," is one of the most enjoyable tracks with its soft blend of acoustic guitar and piano. Standout moments such as these make it crystal clear that these rockers have the ability to create music that reaches beyond the ordinary and heads into new territory.

Sadly, most of Everything and More falls almost too comfortably into the pop/rock category. Generic chord progressions and lyrics keep this effort from meeting its potential. Perhaps as StorySide:B continues to grow, they will put aside the things which hinder their ability to meet the great heights that the fivesome seems more than capable of reaching.

- Review date: 12/21/05, written by Lauren Summerford