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Falling Up (band)
Falling Up (band)
Falling Up (band)
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Falling Up is an American rock band from Albany, Oregon. Falling Up formed in October 2001 and released their debut album Crashings in 2004. They were signed to BEC Recordings in 2003 after a recommendation from friends in the band Kutless. Their lyrics were heavily inspired by their conundrums with spirituality.

Key Information

Over time, the lyrics became more abstract and poetic as the band's style shifted from alternative rock to a more experimental direction and they started creating more diverse music.

The band went through several lineup changes, with only lead vocalist Jessy Ribordy, bassist Jeremy Miller, and drummer Josh Shroy appearing on every album. They became an independent band with the release of Your Sparkling Death Cometh in 2011 and remained as such through the bands 20 year history.

History

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Crashings and Dawn Escapes (2004–06)

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Falling Up debuted on February 24, 2004, with their 12-track album, Crashings. Produced by Aaron Sprinkle. Crashings sold 3,396 units in its first week, which exceeded first-week sales of any other album in the history of BEC Recordings—displacing the previous record held by Kutless, who were childhood friends of Falling Up. Crashings sold over 50,000 units by the end of 2004. Three songs from Crashings—"Broken Heart", "Escalates", and "Bittersweet"—reached No. 1 on the R&R charts.

Their second album, Dawn Escapes, was released on October 25, 2005, through BEC Recordings. Produced by Michael "Elvis" Baskette (Chevelle, Cold), the album, though more melodic and hard rock-driven as a whole, did not deviate far from the sound of Crashings. Dawn Escapes pushed Falling Up's lifetime record sales to over 150,000 by the summer of 2006. Guitarist Tom Cox left the band shortly before the album's release, eventually going on to form his own band, Archers Rise, whose debut release was produced by Ribordy. He was replaced by guitarist Micah Sannan.[2]

On September 12, 2006, Falling Up released Exit Lights, an album featuring remixes of the band's biggest hits and the new song "Islander". Solomon Olds of Family Force 5, Thousand Foot Krutch's Trevor McNevan, and Randy Torres of Project 86 fame were among the artists who worked with Falling Up for the project. Guitarist Joseph Kisselburgh left the band in May 2006 to focus on his solo project, The Send, which released its debut album on Tooth & Nail Records in July 2007. The band enlisted a number of touring guitarists (including Hawk Nelson's Jonathan Steingard) to fill in for Kisselburgh during summer tour dates, although no permanent replacement was ever sought, with the group remaining a five-piece afterwards.

Captiva and Fangs! (2007–09)

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The band announced the release date for their next project, code-named "Abandoners", on their Myspace page. Later on, they would announce the release name Captiva. The album was released on October 2, 2007. The first single from the album was "Hotel Aquarium", followed by "Goodnight Gravity", "How They Made Cameras", "Maps", and "A Guide to Marine Life". The band also filmed a music video for "Hotel Aquarium", which was featured in X 2008. After recording but before the release of the album, guitarist Micah Sannan departed Falling Up and joined the band Disciple.[3] Keyboardist Adam Taylor also departed around the same time to manage merchandise for the band Hawk Nelson.[4] Daniel Elder soon joined the band as their new guitar player, reducing the band to a quartet.

Falling Up's fourth studio album, Fangs!, was released March 24, 2009. According to their MySpace page, Fangs! was to be their "heaviest album yet", something which was often disputed in the post-release period. It was also said that the album would be "more of an arrangement than just a record that is put together randomly" and that it "[would] not have 14 great songs in entirety, but just intriguing moments and sections". One of the song titles, "Lotus and Languorous", was released early.

According to BEC Recordings and Falling Up's Myspace, Falling Up headlined the Fangs! tour in late April early May 2009 with Tooth and Nail artist Ruth and Portland indie/rock artist Archeology. Unlike past tours, the venues on this tour were strictly secular.

Side projects and hiatus (2009–10)

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After the release of Fangs!, band members Jessy Ribordy and Josh Shroy started a side project under the name The River Empires, which created an album Epilogue with the help of The Dear Hunter's Casey Crescenzo and a handful of other musicians. Ribordy also began working on a solo project, Gloomcatcher, releasing its first album, Slow Chorale. The debut albums from both projects were released on April 6, 2010.

On January 20, 2010, Ribordy announced that Falling Up was "taking a permanent break" and that their final show would be held at the Parachute Music Festival on January 29.[5]

Independent reunion and Your Sparkling Death Cometh (2010–12)

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On October 22, 2010, the band updated their MySpace page with information that new music was "in the works".[6] The website FallingUpLives.com was then launched, followed by a Kickstarter campaign. Jessy explained on the website that the breakup was due to the band members wanting to explore other musical endeavors and the fact the BEC did not support the band's ideas for future releases. Jessy also stated that the band members felt uncomfortable ending Falling Up so abruptly, leading to their decision to return making music, independently this time.

On January 21, 2011, Falling Up's Kickstarter campaign for their new album ended, having raised $13,665, more than their goal of $10,000.[7] Rewards for the campaign included an exclusive download of two of Falling Up's demo songs, "Phantasm" and "Monster Blood", both of which were tracks cut from their Captiva album, an exclusive T-shirt, signed copies of the new record, and cover songs performed by the band. The new record began recording on February 9, 2011, with Ribordy saying that the album would be released in June of 2011. On March 18, 2011, the band's website was updated with a logo displaying Your Sparkling Death Cometh, and a release date of June 2011. Shortly after, the band confirmed on their Facebook page that "Your Sparkling Death Cometh" would be the title of the upcoming album.

On May 25, 2011, Falling Up released the first single for Your Sparkling Death Cometh, "Blue Ghost", on their ReverbNation page. On June 1, 2011, Falling Up released the second single, "Diamnds", also on their ReverbNation page. The two singles were generally well received, with "Diamnds" being a center point. Although not officially released until June 28, Your Sparkling Death Cometh reportedly arrived to those who had pre-ordered the album as early as June 23. When Your Sparkling Death Cometh was released on June 28, 2011, the album generally received very favorable reviews from critics. It was cited as being exceptionally creative, with a strong focus on originality and composure.

The same day as the release of Your Sparkling Death Cometh, Falling Up updated their website to fit with the theme of the album. A player was also added, allowing each track from the album to be played in its entirety. Prior to the album's release, the band members stated several times that, depending on the album's reception, it would likely be Falling Up's last project. With the album's release, they added a biography section to their website, which implied that they were hoping to continue Falling Up, even 10 years after its inception.[8]

Following the release of Your Sparkling Death Cometh, Falling Up played their first live show since the Fangs! tour three years prior at the Hawthorne Theatre in Portland, Oregon, on January 7, 2012. Ruth and Water & Bodies were the opening acts for the band.[9]

Falling Up announced in early January 2012 that a remix EP was in the works and also said that they were hoping to have some new music released by the end of the year. On April 11, 2012, the band released Mnemos, their first remix album since Exit Lights.

Mnemos contained seven tracks on its own, and there were also three bonus tracks added when the album reached 1,000 downloads. The tracks found on the album were not full remixes, but repetitions of hooks found in the various sections of Your Sparkling Death Cometh. At the time of Mnemos's release, Falling Up was only able to remix songs from Your Sparkling Death Cometh, due to BEC holding the rights to their previous songs.

The Mnemos EP was released on Groupees through the "Feed Them with Music" program, a charity which provides a meal for a needy family for every download. All of Falling Up's profits from the EP were donated to this program. Within the first 24 hours of the album's release there were over 1,500 downloads.

Machine De Ella, Falling Up, and Reimagined (2012–2017)

[edit]

Falling Up's next project was teased as The Machine De Ella project. The project was eventually revealed to consist of two albums, Hours and Midnight on Earthship, as well as an audio book, also titled Hours, written by Jessy Ribordy. The idea for the project came when the band considered their two different fanbases. Hours was recorded as a concept album based on the book within the project, and was more rock-driven. Midnight on Earthship was toned down in style and contained more introspective and personal lyrics. Both of the albums and the book began their launch on October 9, 2012, and were progressively released over the course of three months.[10]

In August 2014, Falling Up initiated a Kickstarter fundraiser for their tenth full-length album that raised over $48,000, exceeding the $40,000 goal.[11] During the Kickstarter campaign, the band announced that the project would be their final album.[12][13] On November 13, 2015, Falling Up released the album, the self-titled Falling Up to critical acclaim.[14][15]

On June 10, 2016, Falling Up released a two-song EP titled Reimagined to follow through on a reward tier from their Kickstarter campaign. It consisted of two re-created songs, "Broken Heart" and "Arafax Deep", which originally debuted on the band's first album, Crashings. In early 2017, the band released their final song, a cover of Brand New's "Gasoline".

The Chilling Alpine Adventure (2024)

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In August 2024, Falling Up announced a new project via their Instagram, titled The Chilling Alpine Adventure with the caption "The final chapter of a 20-year journey". In December 2024, Jessy Ribordy revealed via their new website that The Chilling Alpine Adventure is a project separate from Falling Up that will incorporate "old and beloved elements of Falling Up that fans have come to appreciate". Falling Up will serve as a "hallway" to the new project. The new project's album was released on December 27, 2024. On November 26, 2024, the band released the first song off the new project, titled "Five Angle". On July 24, 2025, the band released a bonus track, titled "Firn".

Drumming for the album was done by Jordan Wood of A Dream Too Late, who is credited with being on the drummer on the project's official page.[16] Josh Shroy has not been mentioned as being part of the project. According to Ribordy, bassist Jeremy Miller "didn't get a chance to track on the album" but is "just as much of this group as everyone else". Although Miller isn't credited with being "in the band" on the project's website.[16] The bass parts were performed by Ribordy himself.[17]

Members

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The Chilling Alpine Adventure

  • Jessy Ribordy – vocals and bass guitar (2024–present)
  • Daniel Elder – guitar (2024–present)
  • Nick Lambert – guitar (2024–present)
  • Jordan Wood – drums (2024–present)

Final lineup for Falling up

  • Jessy Ribordy – lead vocals, guitars, keyboards, programming (2001–2024)
  • Jeremy Miller – bass guitar, keyboards (2001–2024)
  • Daniel Elder – guitar, backing vocals (2008–2024)
  • Nick Lambert – guitar (2008–2024)
  • Josh Shroy – drums, percussion (2001–2024)

Former Falling Up members

  • Tom Cox – guitar, backing vocals (2001–2005)
  • Joe Kisselburgh – guitar, backing vocals (2001–2006)
  • Andrew Wadlow – turntables, keyboards, programming (2001–2003)
  • Michael Humphrey – turntables, keyboards, programming (2003–2005)
  • Micah Sannan – guitar (2005–2007)
  • Adam Taylor – keyboards, programming, backing vocals (2005–2007)

Touring musicians

  • Daniel Huddleston – lead guitar (2007–2010)

Timeline

[edit]

Discography

[edit]
  • Crashings (2004, BEC)
  • Dawn Escapes (2005, BEC)
  • Exit Lights (2006, BEC)
  • Captiva (2007, BEC)
  • Discover the Trees Again: The Best of Falling Up (2008, BEC)
  • Fangs! (2009, BEC)
  • Your Sparkling Death Cometh (2011, independent)
  • Mnemos EP (2012, independent)
  • Hours (2013, independent)
  • Midnight on Earthship (2013, independent)
  • Silver City (2013, independent)
  • House Full of Caverns (2015, independent)
  • Falling Up (2015, independent)
  • The Chilling Alpine Adventure (2024, independent)

See also

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References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Falling Up (band)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Falling Up is an American band from , formed in 2001 by vocalist Jessy Ribordy and friends from the local area. The band, initially influenced by and , evolved into a progressive and experimental sound over their career, signing with BEC Recordings in 2003 and releasing their debut album Crashings in 2004, which sold more than 50,000 copies by the end of the year. The core lineup, featuring Ribordy on vocals and keys, bassist , and drummer Josh Shroy—who appeared on every album—underwent several changes, with notable former members including guitarist Tom Cox and keyboardist Andrew Dub. Falling Up's discography includes seven studio albums: Crashings (2004), Dawn Escapes (2005), Captiva (2007), Fangs (2009), Your Sparkling Death Cometh (2011), a self-titled release (2015), and their final effort The Chilling Alpine Adventure (2024), alongside remix albums like Exit Lights (2006) and Mnemos (2012). Their music achieved chart success in the genre, with singles such as "," "Escalates," and "Bittersweet" reaching number one on relevant charts. After announcing their retirement in 2015, the band funded their self-titled farewell album via Kickstarter, raising over $48,000, but made an unexpected return in 2024 with The Chilling Alpine Adventure, produced by Ribordy and featuring collaborators like guitarist Nick Lambert and drummer Jordan Wood, serving as both a conclusion to their legacy and the debut under a new project name. This release, inspired by a track from their 2009 album Fangs, blends science fiction-themed indie rock elements and marks the end of two decades of activity for Falling Up as originally known.

Formation and background

Origins and inception

Falling Up was formed in October 2001 in , by Jessy Ribordy and guitarist Tom Cox, who conceived the band as high school students inspired by the local scene. The duo, along with early members bassist Jeremy Miller and drummer Josh Shroy, began as friends who shared connections with members of the band , having grown up together in the Albany area and attended the same high school. The band's initial concept emerged as a project, drawing from influences prevalent in the community, with serving as a key inspiration due to their shared upbringing and proximity in the local scene. Ribordy and Cox named the band after their first song, which explored themes of imperfection and , reflecting their youthful motivations rooted in faith and musical experimentation during high school. Early activities included local rehearsals and performances in 2003, as the group honed their sound before gaining wider attention. That same year, following a recommendation from their friends in to BEC Recordings owner Brandon Ebel, Falling Up secured a record deal with the subsidiary, marking a pivotal step from their beginnings.

Initial lineup and early development

Falling Up's initial lineup featured Jessy Ribordy as lead vocalist, guitarist, and keyboardist, alongside Tom Cox on guitar, on bass, Josh Shroy on drums, Adam Taylor on keyboards, and A-Dub (Andrew Wadlow) handling DJ duties and programming. This core group coalesced in , where Ribordy and Cox, both high school students, began the project in 2001 with a focus on atmospheric elements. Recruitment drew from the local community in the , with Miller and Shroy joining to provide rhythmic foundation, while Taylor was brought in specifically to enhance the band's synth-driven, atmospheric sound. As young musicians still navigating high school, the members faced challenges in balancing academic commitments with rehearsals and performances, often practicing in limited spaces with basic equipment. In their early development phase from to 2004, the band focused on writing and recording demos that showcased Ribordy's songwriting and the group's blend of rock and electronic influences, rooted in Christian themes. These efforts included local gigs at churches and youth events across the Pacific Northwest, building a following before securing a label deal.

Musical style and influences

Genre evolution and sound characteristics

Falling Up's core genre has been rooted in , incorporating elements of art rock, , and electronic music throughout their career. Their sound often features layered instrumentation that blends aggressive guitar riffs with atmospheric textures, creating a between intensity and introspection characteristic of the spectrum. This foundation allows for a distinctive identity that emphasizes emotional depth and sonic exploration. In their early phase, the band's sound emphasized melodic rock structures augmented by synth layers and anthemic choruses, drawing parallels to and influences for a radio-accessible yet edgy appeal. These elements produced a hard-edged vibe with rap-infused rhythms and piano-driven melodies, fostering an energetic, youth-oriented listen that balanced aggression with melodic hooks. The integration of electronic programming added a modern sheen, distinguishing their work within the scene. Over time, Falling Up's evolved toward progressive and experimental directions, marked by increasingly complex structures and a departure from straightforward rock formats. This shift introduced ambient and orchestral flourishes, with synth-driven compositions giving way to ethereal, haunting tones that evoked sci-fi atmospheres in later works. The progression reflected a maturation into experimental , where intensity merged with art rock's intricacy, allowing for brooding, atmospheric builds and intricate rhythms. Abstract lyrical themes often amplified this experimental feel, intertwining poetic narratives with the music's evolving sonic landscapes. Production techniques played a pivotal role in this evolution, with heavy reliance on keyboards, electronic programming, and multi-instrumental contributions from vocalist Jessy Ribordy to craft immersive soundscapes. Guest orchestrations and atmospheric effects further enhanced the ambient qualities, enabling seamless transitions between chaotic energy and serene interludes. This approach not only underscored their leanings but also solidified a signature style that prioritized conceptual cohesion over conventional songwriting.

Lyrical themes and inspirations

Falling Up's lyrics frequently explore themes of , redemption, and spiritual journeys, often presented through metaphorical or science fiction-inspired narratives that examine loss and . Frontman Jessy Ribordy has described grace as a recurring motif, where narratives of woe and darkness ultimately yield to prevailing , as seen in allegorical tales involving elements like floods, robots, and rocket ships that symbolize personal and existential struggles. These themes blend Christian undertones with abstract , allowing listeners to interpret spiritual redemption amid sci-fi lore, such as in songs depicting and renewal. The band's inspirations draw from biblical stories and Ribordy's personal experiences, including family influences and life transitions that infuse with authenticity and introspection. Ribordy has cited his evolving understanding of as a core driver, shaping narratives that reflect spiritual growth without overt preaching, while environmental motifs like flooding represent overwhelming trials leading to restoration. such as C.S. Lewis's works informs the allegorical style, evoking parables of otherworldly quests that parallel biblical redemption arcs, as Ribordy crafts phonetic-driven that prioritize evocative sound alongside deeper meaning. Lyrical evolution mirrors the band's career trajectory, with early albums delivering more direct Christian messages—such as explicit references to and healing in tracks like ""—transitioning to allegorical and introspective works in later releases. Post-hiatus reflections during 2009–2010 deepened this shift, emphasizing veiled spiritual journeys over straightforward , as Ribordy incorporated personal hiatus insights into more narrative-focused content. Collaborative elements enhance thematic arcs, with guest lyricists and interconnected stories spanning albums like Fangs! and Your Sparkling Death Cometh, forming a of characters and timelines that explore betrayal, sacrifice, and hope within the Bethel Woods lore. For instance, Fangs! extends narratives from the Hours , featuring recurring figures like Colby in tales of and redemption, while Ribordy's solo contributions tie personal motifs of shock and renewal across these works.

History

Early career and major label signing (2003–2006)

Falling Up signed with BEC Recordings, a subsidiary of , in 2003 following a recommendation from members of the band . The band's debut album, Crashings, was recorded and mixed at Compound Recording in Seattle, Washington, and produced by . Released on February 24, 2004, the album blended with electronic elements and rap influences, marking a fresh entry in . Singles "Broken Heart," "Escalates," and "Bittersweet" from Crashings achieved significant , each reaching No. 1 on Christian rock charts. The album's sales surpassed 100,000 units, establishing the band within the genre. The follow-up album, Dawn Escapes, arrived on October 25, 2005, continuing the band's energetic rock sound while incorporating more atmospheric and worship-oriented elements. Lyrically, it explored themes of spiritual pursuit and , often alluding to God's nature without direct references, aligning with the band's subtle faith-based approach. In 2006, Falling Up released the EP Exit Lights on September 12, featuring remixes of tracks from previous albums alongside the new song "Islander," serving as a transitional release that highlighted the band's evolving production style. During this period, Falling Up built a growing fanbase through extensive touring, including support slots on the 2006 Art of Breaking Tour alongside , , and Run Kid Run. The band performed over 40 shows in 2006 alone, focusing on circuits and festivals, which helped solidify their presence in the scene. Early reception praised the band's innovative sound, with Crashings noted for its dynamic mix of rock aggression and melodic introspection that addressed everyday Christian struggles. Critics highlighted its role in refreshing with unique electronic and textures.

Commercial success and lineup shifts (2007–2009)

In 2007, Falling Up released their third studio album, Captiva, through BEC Recordings, marking a significant step in their major label tenure. Produced by , known for his work with bands like and , the album featured a blend of electronic and rock elements, with standout tracks including the "Hotel Aquarium" and "Goodnight Gravity." The title track "Captiva" also gained attention for its atmospheric sound, contributing to the band's growing presence in radio. During this period, the band achieved notable visibility through live performances, headlining slots on tours and appearing at major festivals. They performed at events like Revelation Generation in 2007 and Passion Fest in 2008, solidifying their reputation within the scene. These shows highlighted their evolving stage presence and helped expand their fanbase amid the competitive landscape of mid-2000s . By 2008, Falling Up's lineup consisted of vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Jessy Ribordy, guitarists Daniel Elder and Nick Lambert, bassist Jeremy Miller, and drummer Josh Shroy, reflecting stability after earlier transitions from founding members like guitarist Tom Cox and keyboardist Adam Taylor. This core group carried into their fourth album, Fangs!, released on March 24, 2009, via BEC Recordings. Produced by Casey Crescenzo of the Dear Hunter, the record represented an experimental pivot toward a narrative concept album inspired by mystical themes of hope and adventure, diverging from their prior sound with intricate storytelling and atmospheric production. Key tracks such as "A Colour Eoptian," "The Moon and Sixpence," and "Goddess of the Dayspring, Am I" showcased this shift, earning praise for the band's innovative approach. Critics noted the album's artistic depth, describing it as a "pleasantly artistic" concept work that appealed to fans seeking progressive elements in Christian music.

Hiatus and side projects (2009–2010)

Following the release of their fourth studio album Fangs! in March 2009, Falling Up parted ways with their longtime label, BEC Recordings (an imprint of Tooth & Nail), after a six-year partnership marked by creative disagreements over the band's experimental direction. The album's ambitious sci-fi narrative and atmospheric sound had pushed boundaries within the scene, contributing to tensions with the label. This shift occurred amid the band's exhaustive touring schedule in support of Fangs!, which included performances across and internationally, leaving members fatigued after years of relentless activity. On January 20, 2010, Jessy Ribordy announced via that the band was taking a "permanent break," citing a lack of updates over the previous six months and the need for members to pursue individual paths. The hiatus was solidified with the group's final performance together at the Parachute Music Festival in on February 27, 2010. Fans responded with numerous inquiries and expressions of disappointment, prompting Ribordy's statement, while the band provided sporadic updates through their page, including teases of potential future music despite the break. During the hiatus, Ribordy focused on solo endeavors and production work, launching his alt-folk solo project Gloomcatcher in 2010 with the debut album Slow Chorale, which explored introspective themes through layered instrumentation. He also collaborated with drummer Josh Shroy on the side project The River Empires, releasing the cinematic soundtrack album Epilogue in April 2010, engineered in part by Ribordy himself and featuring contributions from Shroy on drums. Bassist Jeremy Miller stepped back from the spotlight, engaging in session work and local performances while the band as a whole navigated the pause.

Independent reunion and creative expansion (2011–2017)

After a brief hiatus, Falling Up reunited in late 2010 and initiated a campaign to independently fund their fifth studio , Your Sparkling Death Cometh. The campaign, launched to cover recording and production costs, successfully raised $13,665 from backers by its conclusion on January 21, 2011, exceeding the $10,000 goal. The , a concept piece exploring with ambient and sci-fi-inspired elements, was self-released on June 28, 2011, marking the band's first independent project after departing from BEC Recordings. The band maintained a steady output of self-released material throughout the period, leveraging digital platforms for distribution. In 2012, they began The Machine de Ella Project, a endeavor combining with an accompanying ; this resulted in Hours, a rock-oriented serialized digitally starting October 9, 2012, and fully released on July 16, 2013. Complementing it was Midnight on Earthship, a more acoustic and worship-influenced companion album released on July 15, 2013, emphasizing ethereal soundscapes and lyrical introspection. Later that year, on December 6, 2013, Falling Up issued Silver City, their inaugural album featuring reimagined holiday standards in an experimental style. The momentum continued with the self-titled Falling Up on November 13, 2015, produced through another successful campaign that funded a full-length synth-driven effort, followed by the acoustic Falling Up (Acoustic EP) on November 1, 2015. In 2016, they delivered the two-track Reimagined EP on June 10, fulfilling backer rewards with stripped-down versions of earlier material. These releases were primarily distributed via , allowing direct sales and streaming to fans while bypassing traditional labels. During this era, Falling Up sustained activity through indie tours across the U.S., often funding travel via perks like custom vans for road trips, as detailed in their 2014 for the self-titled album. Collaborations with producer , who had worked on their earlier major-label efforts, influenced the experimental production, though the band handled much of the independent logistics themselves. Challenges included limited mainstream distribution, relying on platforms like for reach, which fostered a dedicated fanbase through direct engagement and exclusive content. The independent phase garnered a among alternative and enthusiasts, praised for its artistic risks and depth. Reviews highlighted Your Sparkling Death Cometh as a "fantastic" blending ambience with rock intensity, earning high marks for innovation. Hours was lauded as an "A+" work with helicopter-like rhythmic propulsion, while Midnight on Earthship received acclaim for its chill, profound worship elements and beautiful melodies. Indie outlets noted the band's growing experimental edge and sustained creativity, solidifying their reputation beyond commercial constraints.

Reformation as The Chilling Alpine Adventure (2018–2025)

Following a period of relative dormancy from 2018 to 2023, during which frontman Jessy Ribordy focused on solo endeavors, including the ambient album Adrift in the Whereabouts (2020) and the holiday-themed release Into the Winter (2021), the project saw limited activity under the Falling Up banner. In August 2023, Ribordy announced The Chilling Alpine Adventure as the final chapter in Falling Up's 20-year journey, positioning it as a culminating work rather than a traditional band continuation. The rebranding to The Chilling Alpine Adventure served as a narrative extension of the lore established in Falling Up's 2009 album Fangs!, where the title track originally appeared as a conceptual closer. This shift marked a deliberate evolution toward a more ambient and introspective sound, emphasizing atmospheric post-rock elements while honoring the band's thematic roots. The lineup for this era featured Ribordy on vocals and bass, alongside guitarists Daniel Elder and Nick Lambert, and drummer Jordan Wood. The self-titled album The Chilling Alpine Adventure was released on December 27, 2024, via , comprising 10 tracks that blend ethereal soundscapes with Ribordy's signature storytelling. Preceding the full release, the single "Five Angle" debuted on November 21, 2024, highlighting the project's shimmering guitar work and emotional depth; standout album opener "The Waterfall House" further exemplified this matured aesthetic. In July 2025, a bonus track titled "" was released, available on . Throughout 2025, activities under the rebranded moniker continued via exclusives. The group also performed live for the first time in years at a concert on November 1, 2025, at Central Saloon, with as the opening act, drawing on the new material to close out the era. Ribordy has described this phase as an emotional capstone, reflecting on the personal growth and finality of the 20-year arc in interviews and announcements.

Band members

Current members

As of 2025, Falling Up—reformed and performing as The Chilling Alpine Adventure—features a core lineup centered on founder Jessy Ribordy, with recent additions supporting their latest releases. Jessy Ribordy serves as lead vocals and bass, having founded the band in 2001 and remained its constant creative force through multiple eras; he shifted to bass duties starting with the 2024 album The Chilling Alpine Adventure. Daniel Elder handles guitar, rejoining in 2024 for the band's final and ongoing performances (previously 2007–2010, 2011–2015). Nick Lambert plays guitar, also rejoining in 2024 after prior stints with the group (2009–2015), contributing to the 2024 and live shows. Jordan Wood is on drums, having joined in 2024 to round out the rhythm section for the reformation.

Former members

Tom Cox co-founded Falling Up in 2001 alongside vocalist Jessy Ribordy while they were high school freshmen, serving as the band's lead guitarist and providing backing vocals until his departure in 2005. As a key contributor to the early songwriting process, Cox helped shape the band's initial sound on debut albums Crashings (2004) and Dawn Escapes (2005). Jeremy Miller joined as bassist in 2001 and remained a core member through the band's major label era and independent releases up to the 2015 retirement, appearing on every studio album and contributing keyboards on select tracks. His consistent presence provided rhythmic stability during periods of lineup flux, including the 2007 shifts following the Captiva era. Miller maintained association with the project post-retirement and is acknowledged as part of the group for the 2024 album The Chilling Alpine Adventure, though he did not perform on it. Josh Shroy served as the band's from its in 2001 through the 2015 retirement, offering a consistent backbone to Falling Up's evolving sound across two decades and multiple lineup iterations. Known for his dynamic and occasionally offbeat style that complemented the band's elements, Shroy mixed and engineered several independent-era releases, such as Your Sparkling Death Cometh (2011). He did not participate in the 2024 reformation. Adam Taylor handled keyboards and synthesizers from 2003 to 2007, infusing the band's music with atmospheric electronic layers during their BEC Recordings period. His contributions were prominent on albums like Crashings, Dawn Escapes, and Captiva (2007), enhancing the synth-driven textures that defined Falling Up's early identity before he left post-Captiva. Joseph Kisselburgh joined around 2002 as rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist, serving through approximately 2006–2007 and playing a pivotal role in the band's early sound on releases like Dawn Escapes (2005) and Captiva (2007). Kisselburgh's guitar work and vocal harmonies supported the creative expansion until his exit. Other notable former members include Andrew "A-Dub" Wadlow, who provided DJ and programming duties from 2001 to 2004 on early demos and Crashings (2004); Micah Sannan, a guitarist from 2005 to 2007; and Dan Huddleston, who contributed programming, synths, and additional instrumentation across various 2010s releases.

Timeline of lineup changes

The band's lineup has evolved significantly over its career, with key changes often coinciding with album releases and shifts in creative direction. Founding members Jessy Ribordy, Tom Cox, , Josh Shroy, and Andrew "A-Dub" Wadlow established the initial configuration in 2001, focusing on a blend of rock and electronic elements for their debut Crashings (2004). Following the release of Crashings in 2004, "A-Dub" Wadlow departed the band, leaving a gap in the keyboard and DJ roles that influenced subsequent productions. Tom Cox departed in 2005, shortly before Dawn Escapes. Taylor joined in 2003 and left in 2007 after the Captiva (2007) recording, alongside Sannan (2005–2007). Kisselburgh (2002–2007) also exited around this period, prompting additions like Daniel Elder on guitar to maintain the band's dynamic sound during a period of commercial peak. The band retired in 2015 after the self-titled album, with core members Ribordy, , and Shroy. The band reformed in 2024 under the name The Chilling Alpine Adventure, with Daniel Elder and Nick Lambert rejoining on guitars and Jordan Wood joining on drums to revitalize the lineup for new releases; and Shroy are acknowledged but did not perform.

Discography

Studio albums

Falling Up has released seven full-length studio albums since their formation in 2001, transitioning from major Christian label BEC Recordings to independent self-releases in later years. Their early work emphasized with electronic elements, while later albums explored more experimental and progressive sounds, often funded through fan-supported platforms like .
Album TitleRelease YearLabelNotes
Crashings2004BEC RecordingsDebut album, produced by . Jesus Freak Hideout
Dawn Escapes2005BEC RecordingsFollow-up emphasizing thematic storytelling. Jesus Freak Hideout
Captiva2007BEC RecordingsFeatured expanded production and guest musicians. AllMusic
Fangs2009BEC RecordingsExplored darker, atmospheric themes; final major-label release. AllMusic
Your Sparkling Death Cometh2011Self-releasedFirst independent full-length, released digitally. AllMusic
Falling Up (self-titled)2015Self-releasedReturned to core roots with ambient influences. Jesus Freak Hideout
The Chilling Alpine Adventure2024Self-released (as The Chilling Alpine Adventure)Digital release via , marking a under a new project name and concluding a 20-year narrative arc. Bandcamp

Extended plays, singles, and compilations

Falling Up released several extended plays (EPs) during their career, often as experimental or supplementary releases that complemented their full-length albums with remixes, acoustic treatments, ambient soundscapes, and thematic extensions. The band's first such release, Exit Lights (2006, BEC Recordings), consisted of 13 tracks including remixes of songs from their debut album Dawn Escapes and select live recordings, providing fans with a reimagined take on their early material. Following their independent reunion, Mnemos (2012, self-released) emerged as a short EP of four tracks, serving as a transitional piece in their evolving sound. Subsequent EPs expanded on ambient and conceptual elements. Hours (2013, self-released), a mini-album blending narration with atmospheric music, featured eight tracks of introspective, ambient compositions that explored themes. That same year, Midnight on Earthship (2013, self-released) offered 10 softer, worship-influenced songs with acoustic leanings, acting as a spiritual companion release. Silver City (2013, self-released), labeled by the band as an , included 11 Christmas-themed tracks with instrumental pieces and original compositions by band members. House Full of Caverns (2015, self-released) is an 8-track EP of and instrumental music, released digitally. Later, Falling Up (Acoustic EP) (2015, self-released) provided stripped-down versions of songs from their self-titled album, emphasizing raw instrumentation across six tracks. Reimagined (2016, self-released), a two-track EP, featured acoustic reinterpretations of select catalog material, highlighting the band's reflective phase. The band issued a handful of standalone singles in their later years. "Five Angle" was released independently in 2024 as a digital single, marking a return to concise, narrative-driven rock. In July 2025, "Firn" followed as a bonus track single, incorporating electronic and ambient influences in line with their recent creative direction. Falling Up also appeared on various compilation albums, primarily within the Christian rock genre. Their career-spanning greatest hits collection, Discover the Trees Again: The Best of Falling Up (2008, BEC Recordings), compiled 16 tracks from their first four albums, offering a retrospective overview. Additionally, the band contributed to multiple samplers, such as X 2008 (2007, BEC Recordings) with "Hotel Aquarium," New Noise, Vol. 11 (2006, New Noise) featuring "Moonlit," and Tooth & Nail Records: The Ultimate Collection (2008, Tooth & Nail) including "Broken Heart," among others that showcased their early hits in broader contexts.
Release TypeTitleYearLabelNotes
EPExit Lights2006BEC RecordingsRemixes and live tracks
EPMnemos2012Self-releasedInstrumental tracks
EP/Mini-albumHours2013Self-releasedAmbient pieces with narration
EPMidnight on Earthship2013Self-releasedAcoustic worship songs
EPSilver City2013Self-releasedChristmas-themed instrumentals and songs
EPHouse Full of Caverns2015Self-released instrumental tracks
EPFalling Up (Acoustic EP)2015Self-releasedAcoustic versions of album tracks
EPReimagined2016Self-releasedAcoustic reinterpretations
SingleFive Angle2024Self-releasedDigital single
SingleFirn2025Self-releasedBonus track single
CompilationDiscover the Trees Again: The Best of Falling Up2008BEC RecordingsGreatest hits collection

References

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