Silvercrush tests waters of pop music, stays afloat

Silvercrush’s debut album, Stand, treats listeners to a smooth, melodic sound reminiscent of Train or Ben Folds Five.

The forlorness of singer Steele Croswhite’s voice makes this band stand out. Most of the songs are either love songs or “broken-heart” songs and Croswhite’s vocals evoke sympathy from the listener.

The radio-friendly “Who is me,” will probably enjoy the most air time. From its toe-tapping melody to the random love story told by the lyrics, the song is a treat.

It describes a pretty woman whose van has broken down on the side of the road. A slick businessman-type pulls up while the girl is fixing her car. The two go to dinner, and eventually they fall in love.

The album is full of songs that are easy on the ear. But make no mistake, they’re not easy-listening songs. The band provides an edgy feel to the traditional themes of love songs.

The only song on the album that doesn’t quite fit is “Dry.” While it is a “break-up” song, it doesn’t carry the message very well. Even Croswhite’s mournful voice cannot save this song.

With “Dance,” Silvercrush creates an interesting, spacey vibe, accented by plain and simple lyrics – but lyrics that get you moving nonetheless.

On “Tomorrow,” the band asks if “what happened to me between now and then with all the work, will it happen again?” Presumably Silvercrush is asking if the work they put in will make them famous.

“Alone” is a song about the dissatisfaction Croswhite has with his life. That sounds trite on the surface, but the band creates a sap-less song.

While the genre of love songs has been hashed and rehashed countless times, Silvercrush creates an album that’s never mushy or corny.

With this album playing in the background, you should have no trouble “setting the mood” when spending time with your significant other.

Silvercrush is a band that will help you drive from Dallas to Waco without switching CD’s a million times.

Their mellow sound, punctuated by hard rock guitar riffs and the distinctive voice of Croswhite creates a sound that is sure to captivate listeners.