What is life if not a collection of stories?
Stories about the human experience.
Maybe these are our stories.
Or perhaps, maybe they are yours.

So, wherever you are, whoever you are, and whatever your story may be: Our debut album, is for you.

DECIDER is a Canadian rock group originally formed by Eric Wood and Jake Israel. May 2024 saw the independent release of Decider’s crafty, cogent, and compelling self-titled debut album via their official website, and on all major online distribution platforms including Spotify and Apple Music. With the recent addition of Drummer Mat Oddleifson and Bassist Jeff Buck to the lineup - the outfit calls Toronto, Ontario their home.

Recorded, produced and mastered over a period of 36 months, Eric and Jake and have worked meticulously to craft each of the unique stories found on Decider’s self-titled debut album.

Thematically rich and emotionally resonant, Decider’s self-titled debut album explores themes of hope, despair, redemption, and reverie. Each track invites listeners on a journey through the highs and lows of the human experience, leaving a lasting impression long after the music fades.

Mastered by the legendary Noah Mintz at Lacquer Channel, "Decider" boasts a polished feel that exudes talent and undeniable chemistry. The album is a testament to Wood and Israel’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of rock, alternative and progressive music, creating a sound that is uniquely their own.

Photo: Justin Lawrence // @thisisjlaw

Drawing inspiration from their diverse musical influences, Decider’s sound has often been compared to iconic artists including Incubus, Audioslave, Stone Temple Pilots, Live, Soundgarden, Big Wreck. However, they are unmistakably original, showcasing a depth and refreshing take on today’s music.

From the songwriting, to the arrangements, recording, and mixing - the duo have poured their hearts into their work - resulting in a 9-song, full-length album that reflects their musical and artistic vision, stating:

“Decider is an analogy and metaphor of the path that we all create; it is our light in the dark, our 20/20 vision of reality. It represents the torment we force onto ourselves, and the ecstasies we succumb to. Our roads are not always easy, as external influences often force us to exist at one extreme or another. Decider is a choice; a dichotomy of good and evil, the temptations we face, and the love we nurture.”

Decider’s ethos is grounded in proven creativity and a dedication to working together. Eric's intuitive artistry embodies fluidity, while Jake's meticulous energy brings dynamism, and together - a harmonious synergy that propels their artistic vision.

Wood and Israel are long-time friends and musical collaborators, with similar upbringings. They grew up in the same neighbourhoods, knew the same people, and even attended the same schools. Though meeting later in life, their musical tastes and love for the “craft of creation” forged a bond that has stood the test of time. Their love for music and entertainment has seem them in many acts, either separate or in tandem, and they have continued to support each other’s musical ambitions throughout.

Photo: Justin Lawrence // @thisisjlaw

ERIC WOOD is a singer-songwriter from Toronto who crafts the emotional and compelling lyrics behind the music of Decider. His thought-provoking and analytical approach sheds new light on the age-old questions of who we are, and where we are going. Wood combines intellectual lyrics and rhythmic harmonies that bridge the gap between soft-spoken storytelling and animalistic cries to the gods. His mind is a novel of words that coalesce into phrases chanted out or spoken in a cry of desperation to the listener, waiting for the slightest echo back from the darkness. Wood enchants with his words and encapsulates the musical themes he creates in a cage of his own thoughts. Whether it is a slow dramatic scenescape or a raging mechanical overdrive, Wood is a compelling and comprehensive storyteller throughout the journey.

Photo: Justin Lawrence // @thisisjlaw

JAKE ISRAEL, also hailing from Toronto - is an accomplished musician, performer, songwriter, educator, and critical thinker. Both a serial entrepreneur and Professor of graphic design, Israel employs extensive experience in the media, advertising, marketing, and television industries, also having been a nationally exhibited and award-winning photographer, as well as a MuchMusic Temp contest runner up. Israel first performed live with the legendary Grant Fullerton of Lighthouse as a young adult, has basked under the neon palms of the El Mocambo, and is equally at home on guitar or bass, both on stage and in the studio. His meticulous attention to even the smallest detail, and passion for all things musical are a major contributor to Decider’s sound.

Photo: Justin Lawrence // @thisisjlaw

MAT ODDLEIFSON is a multi-instrumentalist from Kelowna, British Columbia, whose musical journey began with piano at age five. He soon developed a passion for guitar, eventually mastering the instrument before shifting his focus to drums. With over two decades of drumming experience, Mat’s style combines the aggression and rawness of his heavy metal roots. A former member of Scissorkick, he’s also contributed as a session musician for artists like Josh + Bex and Hailey Troock. Now, as a core member of Decider, Mat’s precise, powerful drumming elevates the band’s distinctive modern rock sound.

Photo: Justin Lawrence // @thisisjlaw

JEFF BUCK is a seasoned, highly skilled bassist with a career spanning over 20 years. Originally from Ottawa and raised in Aurora, Ontario, Jeff has known Decider’s guitarist, Jake, since they were ten. A veteran of Canadian touring, Jeff has played countless stages across the country with acts like Lyme, James MacDonald, Ground Level, Daysleft, and Everglo. Known for his near-perfect precision and groove, Jeff’s bass work has been featured on both radio and in indie films, grounding Decider’s sound with his distinct blend of expertise and depth.