Local Artist: Downcast Theory

The Stone Pony, School of Rock, Starland Ballroom — these guys played them all. New Jersey's own Downcast Theory has been heavily involved in the Garden State's local music scene for quite some time. In 2007, the hard-rock quartet began their musical endeavors and was quick to release their first full-length album, Damaged Calm, in 2008. After spending some time touring and promoting their album, Downcast Theory reworked their music and came up with a harder, more focused sound.

Downcast Theory is made-up of long-term friends from Monroe Township, N.J.: Matthew Simon, the University's own Jake Raynor, Matt Raunick aka "Ron-Dog" and their newest member, Ryan Sauerman.

Sauerman, the band's new bassist, is credited with aspects of Downcast Theory's musical progression. "He was like our number one fan … we didn't change in any way, he just brought his style in and it changes everything about our music. It makes it darker, it makes it more progressive and it just makes it more mature," commented Raynor on his cousin's connection with the group.

With a new bassist on board, Downcast Theory released their second full-length album this past April. The self-titled album is not a concept album, yet it has a strong sense of cohesion that the first album lacked. Raynor's commented on the album's success: "We definitely spent more time with production; we'd write a song then re-write it."

Currently, the band is taking a brief break from playing live shows due to Raunick's broken foot. However, Downcast Theory is not to be forgotten about as they are continuously writing new music and intend to get back to playing live shows in the near future. With a sound that is reminiscent of rock bands like Sevendust, Seether and Breaking Benjamin, Downcast Theory is a prime example of musical talent that's right around the corner.

Website: Downcasttheory.com

Facebook Page: Facebook.com/downcasttheory