Search - Dance Gavin Dance :: What Ever I Say Is Royal Ocean

Great debut

Shades Of Gray | Newport News, VA | 05/17/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I first heard this album in late 06 when dgd first signed to rise records and they re-released this. It's a pretty short album but from the guitar opening in robot with human hair pt. 1 to the end of burning down the nicotine armoire pt. 1, I was completely impressed by this unknown band from sacramento.



In a scene saturated by 2002-era alexisonfire-influenced bands (a skylit drive, in fear and flames, etc.), dance gavin dance is a very fresh alternative to that. Because, although, especially in this album, they do have the contrasting harsh vocals courtesy of jon mess and the ridiculously amazing clean vocals of jonny craig, they come off with a very different sound. the sound comes from the dizzying guitar work courtesy of will swan and sean o'sullivan. To this day, i still don't know how to categorize these guys, but my best approximation is a very strong post hardcore influence with a little bit of soul, and r & b.



The only thing that i didn't like on this album was the production, mess's vocals seemed a little too distant, and with too much reverb. But seeing how this was a demo, more or less, i let it slide.



I'd recommend this album to virtually anyone, although if you're not a very big fan of harsh vocals (screaming), you might be a little put off.



Dance Gavin Dance's Whatever I say is royal ocean is one of the brightest spots in today's post hardcore scene.



4 out of 5 stars.



Favorite Tracks:



*****

The Robot With Human Hair, Pt. 1

Tidal Waves: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

The Robot With Human Hair, Pt. 2



****

The Importance Of Cocaine"