Days Before Tomorrow: The Sky Is Falling

This is the first I have heard of the New Jersey band Days Before Tomorrow, and am I ever glad to have made their acquaintance. Combining touches of progressive rock with a heavy dose of modern melodic rock their first full length album really caught my attention. What immediately stood out for me were the incredible hooks found throughout the disc, pulling the listener in and revealing many of the subtle nuances found within. The band consists of Eric Klein (lead vocals), Scott Kahn (guitars, vocals), Derek Davodowich (guitars, vocals), Robert Maziekien (bass, vocals) and Jason Gianni (drums, percussion, vocals). Keyboards are provided by Kahn and Jason Buchwald. Guitars and keys are prominent and many songs feature crisp acoustic guitar to go along with the crunchy riffs and irresistible melodies. All members contribute vocally so you can probably guess this is one of the band's strengths. Kleins' voice is ideally suited for melodic rock providing soaring vocals all over the disc.

This is a concept album about an alien race set on annihilating humanity and I found it highly enjoyable following the story while listening. A special mention must be made about the wonderful artwork courtesy of Steven Bentley reminding me of those classic pulp science fiction movies of the 50s.

As far as the music is concerned there are no weak tracks. That is not bad considering there are fourteen songs and over sixty minutes of music on offer. Whether its the pure ear candy of "Lighters" with its acoustic opening, soaring vocals, Ayreonesque electronic treatments and a chorus to die for or the melodic pop that is "Wrong" featuring more outstanding lead and background vocals and guitar work with a slight Edge feel, there is a lot to like here. More highlights include the heavily orchestrated ballad "Wasted Years I: Confrontation" featuring the lovely piano of special guest Huub Douma and gorgeous harmonies throughout. A couple more favourites are the synth heavy "Wasted Years II: Sleepwalking" with its tasty lead and rhythm guitar and the hard rocking "Can't Do Anything" featuring a middle section of melodic piano, keyboard washes and contemplative acoustic guitar.

This is one of the most refreshing releases I have heard in a while and one that is sure to raise a few eyebrows in 2009 and will more than likely make my best of list when the end of the year comes around. For those of you who appreciate a heavy dose of melody in your prog inflected rock and have an ear for concept albums you cannot go wrong. Days Before Tomorrow is here today so what are you waiting for?

(originally written for www.progressiveears.com)

Track Listing:
1. Lighters
2. Wrong
3. Last Song
4. Can't Go Back
5. Wasted Years I: Confrontation
6. Wasted Years II: Sleepwalking
7. In The Air
8. The Sky Is Falling
9. Can't Do Anything
10. Survival
11. Your Kate
12. You're Not The One
13. Wasted Years III: The Silence Is Deafening
14. Lighters (Reprise)

Added: April 15th 2009
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band's Official Site
Hits: 4461
Language: english

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