Three short years since signing with EMI imprint Credential Recordings, southern California rock band Dizmas has transformed its platform from local celebrity to nationally recognized artist, securing high-profile placements on popular television shows like prime time hit “CSI: NY,” reality phenomenon “Dancing with the Stars” as well as a major network campaign for ESPN.
Consequently, it’s no surprise that a band with such momentum would seize the opportunity to be named alongside legendary CCM recording artists Audio Adrenaline, tobyMac and Rebecca St. James. And it’s with that readiness Dizmas describes its new venture with Forefront Records.
“We’re stoked to be a part of the history that is Forefront Records,” shares frontman Zach Zegan. “The past few years have been spent learning and growing, and we now feel ready to step forward and begin a new day where anything can happen. Forefront is the place for that.”
And that growth is reflected on Dizmas’ third studio recording, a self-titled album produced by Steve Wilson (Juliana Theory, Hawk Nelson, Jonezetta). Guitarist Josh Zegan explains, “Before, we were pinpointing and defining the tensions in our lives that caused angst. The new record is a release of that tension, found in realizing the depths of God’s goodness.”
This realization easily shows throughout the record, especially on tracks like “Redemption, Passion, Glory,” which affirms God’s master plan for the salvation of mankind, and “Dance,” a song about rejoicing in what the Lord has done for those who love Him.
But Dizmas is by no means one-sided in its depiction of the Christian faith journey.
“It’s so easy to write only about love and grace,” admits Josh. “But there are so many different aspects of the character of God that we overlook. What about his judgment, his wrath, and his mercy? They also express his love and grace. If we look beyond the easy, comfortable parts, I think we’ll see even more about the love God has for us.”
Such a sentiment inspired songs including the pop/rock anthem “Play It Safe,” which urges listeners not to run away from God’s supremacy, and hook-laiden “This Is A Warning,” which similarly advises against testing God’s authority.
Yet since its last release, Dizmas’ spiritual and professional growth has prompted a newfound social awareness as well. The band now works alongside Cure International to help raise money for children with spinal deformities and crippling orthopedic conditions. The members are also intensely involved with Josiah Venture, an organization which aims to equip young leaders throughout Eastern Europe to fulfill Christ’s commission via the local church.
This sense of social responsibility made its way onto the record too, as Josh explains, “ ‘Worth Fighting For’ is a song that encourages others to push forward in a stagnant nation. Do not grow weary of doing what is right. There is hope in the horizon, and joy within the reach of perseverance.”
And Dizmas embraces that hope and joy for itself, reminding us with its music and mission that we’re all here to grow.
