Day Without Dawn, formerly known as The Postman Syndrome, is a New Jersey based band that recently released their self titled EP. I am not familiar with their work as The Postman Syndrome. Day Without Dawn's release falls mostly into the progressive metal genre, with some hardcore, indie rock and emo influence. While each of the elements of their music are not new, the combination of them gives them a unique sound. The growling that occurs on several of the songs does not drive it into any of the extreme metal genres, the music is too light, almost verging on art rock at times. The melodies on this album are good, and incorporate a lot of jazz elements, with some technical rifts.
However, the singer just did not cut it for me. At times he sounded good, at other times he sounded like a generic emo vocalist, with a high pitched head voice that comes out nasally. He also has difficulties climbing to his intended notes, as well as holding those notes. The growling was alright, and it was done in an 'emo' singing-growling style. At times it felt like I was listening to what would occur if the new progressive leanings of AFI, and Angels and Airwaves met with Coheed and Cambria. Day Without Dawn could find themselves on the radio, but may be too progressive and at times strange for most non-college radio programs.
The album is fairly short with five tracks, though unless you watch your player to see when the tracks changed you could easily think it only had one long track. The style of each of the songs is similar, and sometimes you have déjà vu with the way a verse is sung, yet the song "In the Holding Cell" was my favorite. This is not a bad album by any means, the actual sound of the band is memorable and musically they are talented and innovative, and you may find yourself wanting to revisit the album several times. After about five listens, I have the feeling that this band could be very good with a few improvements, and thus the album taunts me with potential.
Track Listing
1. The Fall
2. Inquisition
3. The Plea
4. In The Holding Cell
5. The Acquittal
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