Sick of going to the music store with no clue what CD to buy for yourself or a friend? Dust For Life’s self-titled debut album is not a bad choice if you like hard rock. Dust for Life has their own unique sound which may be compared to Days of the New, Creed, Fuel, Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, and Stone Temple Pilots. "Step Into the Light," the song that has received much radio play and brought the band to where they are today, is not the only good song on the album. Songs like "Seed," "Poison," and "Lifelike" capture the same kind of energy. This is one of those CDs that you can pop into the CD player and play without getting aggravated and skipping past tracks.
Dust for Life is comprised of Chris Gavin on vocals and guitar, Jason Hughes on guitar, David Rhea on bass, and Rick Shelton on drums and vocals. The band’s hard-rock guitar licks and riffs, tantalizing vocals, and dark melodies define their sound. Gavin’s musical style was affected by his studies in classical and jazz guitar, and this influence can be heard in songs like "Shadow Pool," where soft guitar and little distortion are used.
The primary message of this album is about learning how to accept loss in relationships. Many of the lyrics talk about "waiting for light to come," "trusting," and "starting over." As the CD progresses, it is as if a healing process is occurring—the songs become less aggressive. "We are all dealing with hardships and failed relationships. ... The songs motivate us through times of pain and depression," said Gavin about the band. This CD definitely makes you think about your values and how you deal with problems.
If you like the CD, you may want to catch the band live. Dust for Life is currently on tour through March, sharing the stage with bands including Stone Temple Pilots, Three Doors Down, Cowboy Mouth, Creed, and Nine Days.
