Downshallow Call It Quits

A final CD brings a great decade to an end. From the gentlest emotions to the hardest eruptions and an ocean of the unexpected in between


Recently, I had gotten an email from Downshallow guitarist Rob Ferreira baring the bad news that one of my favorite bands was calling it quits. When I asked why he said it was just time. And I can relate to that.

I was first introduced to Downshallow back in early 2002. Initially as an acoustic act at an open mic in Hoboken, they then handed me a four-song demo, revealing their signature heavier side.

Over the years, the band proved to be musically diverse and sonically challenging. There was never a dull moment. Despite that reputation for heaviness, you didn’t ever really knew what to expect from them.

One moment could be an all-out heavy romp. Another, a stripped-down acoustic intimacy. Still another, a more ethereal exploration of sound. All the while running thru was an undeniable quality that was uniquely Downshallow.

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Their final release ‘The New Fashion‘ is a worthy swan song. The opening track ‘What You’ve Become’ (featured above) gives a good preview of what to expect. Offering up the culmination of ten years of songwriting and experimentation, the dynamic range is massive. From the gentlest emotions to the hardest eruptions and an ocean of the unexpected in between (i.e. a cover of ‘Come Undone’).

It was constant realism and heart that defined this band and differentiated them from the pack. It elevated mere music to sheer mastery. Each track on ‘The New Fashion’ is a journey unto itself. As a whole, it feels like a goodbye to me. I can’t say if that was planned or if it’s just because I know that this is the end.

The band members will continue to work on various projects and I look forward to hearing whatever they decide to do. However, Downshallow will always have a special place in my memory. Good luck guys!

See Also:
Downshallow
The New Fashion
Read My First Review of Downshallow (2002)


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2 Responses to “Downshallow Call It Quits”

  1. Rob
    05/17/10 at 11:07 am #

    Stephen, it was great catching up with you.
    Thanks for kind words of encouragement as well as the incredible support over the years.

  2. Stephen Bailey
    05/17/10 at 11:14 am #

    My pleasure Rob. Best of luck and keep me posted on your new stuff.

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