Hailing from St. Augustine, Flordia comes Gotee Records four-piece band StorySide:B. Shortly after being founded in 2003, the guys of SS:B took a top place in 2004's Exalting Him contest, scored a record deal, and released their debut project Everything and More in 2005. The next two years provided them with numerous touring opportunities as well as some serious time on the Christian music airwaves. Now the band is keeping up the momentum with their sophomore record entitled We Are Not Alone.

After only one listen to this ten-song collection it becomes clear that the members of StorySide:B have grown tremendously as artists over the past couple of years. The musicianship is more sophisticated and the lyrics are stronger here compared to the work of their debut disc. In fact, We Are Not Alone could be just what StorySide: B needs to become of Christian music's leading bands.

Opening track "Fall Down" displays some slight Switchfoot and Anberlin influences, giving it enough edge to become a potential hit on Christian rock radio. "Don't Let It Go" is another standout rock anthem with its driving guitar riff and thumping drums. Several soft ballads are thrown in the mix to create a well rounded album. "Be Still" begins simply with a piano then eventually concludes with a full choir singing, bringing the song to a majestic ending. The gentle "I Give You Me" showcases a similar style. We Are Not Alone finishes strong with the smooth rock ballad "For You."

Lyrically, We Are Not Alone mainly covers themes relating to the Christian life. "Fall Down," "That Is Love," and "All Along" focus on God's love and forgiveness despite man's sinful nature while "Angels" deals head-on with temptation. "Sister" appears to be an open letter of hope and encouragement to young girls struggling with the ways of the world. StorySide:B also addresses dedication to the Lord ("I Give You Me," "For You"), peace in the midst of trials ("Be Still"), and hope in Christ ("Tell Me What You Think of God"). Though these may be considered "safe" or "typical" subject matters for a Christian rock band to sing about, the group manages to use enough creativity in their musical arrangements to separate themselves from the rest of the pack.

We Are Not Alone is a huge step forward from the band's first disc. The mature musicianship of the foursome and the strong vocals of Lu Rubino paired with excellent production make this work of art a strong offering. If StorySide:B continues down this path, it could lead to one bright future for these Florida natives.

- PReview date: 6/4/07, Reviewed 6/17/07, written by Lauren Summerford