On first listen, Deckard would seem to be just another one of the interchangeable, non-offensive, just-sensitive-enough modern rock bands that always seem to be ever-present, providing the filler between the more exciting songs on the radio. This first impression is unfortunate for Deckard, because the more their music is heard, the more it has to offer.
While they don’t pretend to play anything other than melodic, catchy pop-rock songs, Deckard’s Stereodreamscene brings a certain quality to it that is too often lacking. Their music possesses a gentle subtly, combined with intelligence that makes them stand out from their peers. Deckard honestly seems to be having fun on Stereodreamscene, and it shows on all fronts, from the string-laced “Conversation” to the driving “Once There Was a Girl.” Deckard creates music that is fun and thought provoking without trying too hard.
Despite their standard four-member line-up, Deckard manages to incorporate a few synthesized sounds and a bit of orchestration elegantly. These effectively used elements bring a different depth to their music, demonstrating that Deckard has more going for them than most bands.
Deckard’s lyrics are sincere, and quite often simple, but sometimes are bogged down in their own poetry. “Your tears are gold. So rare and pure for fools I’m sure,” lead singer and lyricist Chris Gordon sings on “Wasted At Your Wing.” Lines like this are generally cringe-worthy, but Gordon manages to make it seem unpretentious with his calm voice. Still, songs like “Remain This Way” are beautiful both lyrically and musically, making a few throwaway lines forgivable. All the songs on Stereodreamscene work nicely together as a unit, but taken individually, a few are stronger than others are. The electronic-tinged “Still” and the dreamy opening track, “What Reason” are good showcases of Deckard’s ability.
Deckard has created a surprisingly complex and pleasant album in Stereodreamscene that reveals more of itself with each listen. Deckard deserves more than a causal audience, and will undoubtedly find more fans of their intelligently simple music.