Review Summary: A conventional metalcore/post-hardcore release with enough unique elements to keep it from being completely average.
When Drop Dead, Gorgeous released their first full-length,
In Vogue, back in 2006, it was literally nothing new or innovative: a bunch of eighteen year olds with terrible haircuts displaying their aggressive guitar riffs and love for breakdowns was par for the course back then (and unfortunately, it still is now…but that’s a whole other issue). However, there was something about this band that was strangely addicting for me, and I couldn’t help but listen to this album a couple of times over before growing a guilty pleasure for it. What’s so appealing about Drop Dead, Gorgeous’s style of music that makes
In Vogue stand out from the pack?
Although nothing innovative, the metalcore/post-hardcore music found on
In Vogue really packs a punch. The chugging and screeching of the guitars are well implemented and progress well through most of the songs, and the numerous breakdowns never drag or feel out of place. Instead of having heavier parts just for the sake of it, Drop Dead, Gorgeous seem to have a real sense of how to progress their music through their numerous plodding riffs. The only real problem with it is that every song tends to go for the throat, which gets rather tedious while listening to the album as a whole.
There are plenty of elements that keep
In Vogue somewhat unique, however. The front man of Drop Dead, Gorgeous, Danny Stillman, possesses such a perturbed scream that it honestly sounds like taking a lollipop away from a cranky three-year-old girl. Mr. Stillman’s scream is certainly a unique aspect of their music, and it definitely adds some much needed personality to their sound. The presence of keyboardist Aaron Rothe is another fantastic addition, as his synth parts add some depth and atmosphere, his busy piano parts add a melodic touch, and his great singing voice is a great contrast to the agitated screams.
And while most songs boast a collection of crushing riffs meant to pound you into the ground, some of the best songs on the album feature melodic sections that are very well done. “Dressed For Friend Requests”, “Knife vs. Face: Round 1” and “The Show Must Go On” sport catchy choruses and implement an overall melodic atmosphere that is a much needed change of pace from the other songs on the album. The crowing jewel of this entire album comes courtesy of “The Show Must Go On” and its marvellous outro: synths and glitchy sound effects create a brooding atmosphere half-way through the song before the guitars and drums come crashing back in. Heartfelt singing of “Let’s set the stage on fire, Hollywood will be jealous” churns back and forth while Danny Stillman feverishly screams his lungs out. It proves to be heavy, melodic, and incredibly goddamn catchy, and it’s an excellent way to bring the album to a close.
So while there’s nothing new to be found on
In Vogue in terms of metalcore breakdowns and angry teenage riffing, there are plenty of abstract elements and odd quirks to Drop Dead, Goregous that make them somewhat unique from other similar bands. The melodic touch, flowing progressions and cry-baby screams on
In Vogue are just unique enough to make a fan out of those who are looking for something a bit different in the typical metalcore/post-hardcore soundscape.
