Review Summary: An amazing journey of a listen
A definition of the word encompass is this: “to enclose, envelop”. Another reads: “to include comprehensively”. Now, picture this. An alternative rock band in college has just released their debut album
Saturday, and while you enjoy alternative rock with slight hard rock/grunge flair, you’re a little hesitant to pick up the record because you doubt the maturity of the band. But, gripes aside, you purchase the album, and skeptically put on your headphones for your first listen. And are instantly blown away by one of the most enrapturing and encompassing alternative rock records out there.
So, why is the album so involving? The overall feel and tone of the entire project. First, check the obscurity. From the cheap-looking album out to the stark, unedited record to the tone of the instruments, it feels like Downplay crafted this album just for the listener and no-one else. There’s not an arena rock feel to it at all, and coupled with the relatable lyrics, the simplicity just feels personal. Second, check the lyrical content of the band. Lead vocalist, guitarist, and lyricist Dustin Bates isn’t overly pompous or grandiose, he’s a blunt “everyman” writer. Mainly, he tackles relationship drama, occasionally wrestling with inner demons. However, he’s a clever writer in his simplicity, coming off as a mature adult. Thirdly, the talent of the group. Bates is a substantial player, never show-stopping but able to craft punchy, crunchy riffs and jazzy leads that will have you listening for more. Vocally, Dustin has a gruff, growly voice that sounds similar to Chad from Nickelback, but much better, and both harsher and smoother at times. As for bassist Corey Catlett, he also contributes to the light jazz feel the record gives off, again never stealing the stage but never totally fading into the background. Drummer Brian Patrick seems to take influence at times from simpler punk and at times from progressive rock, adding another layer of variety to this already mixed bag. In addition, slight synth tones give the album a futuristic feel that makes it sound bigger than it is.
For a rock edge, look to songs like “Hang-Up” and “Time Warp”. The former leads you in with a quiet, clean-picked intro before distorted guitars riff to life, punk energy flows from the drums, and Dustin starts yelping his vocals. It’s a fast-paced with an extremely catchy chorus that’s right up the alley of any alternative rock lover. “Time Warp” has another astonishing guitar lead and calms down slightly from the pulsing opener, and boasts rhythm section-dominated verses and another extremely catchy chorus with distorted riffing. Meanwhile, the title track slows things down to something like a more energetic Staind b-side. Bates delivers relatable lyrics and fitting vocals once again, hitting the more painful parts of the song and the more reflecting parts at just the right notes. Though “Overlook” is also a slower track, it’s practically carried by Patrick’s breakneck performance. With its “coffeehouse rock” atmosphere and synth overtones, “Point Of View” sounds much like
Parachutes-era Coldplay. “Love On The Weekdays” has the album’s catchiest riff and another astonishingly catchy chorus, and both will be stuck in your head long after an initial listen. Finally, “Tomorrow” shines because of its successful pairing of clean/distorted electric guitar and bass guitar throughout.
Lyrically, Downplay do focus on relationship fare, but not to the sugar-sweet degree of upbeat-pop or the almost-depressing grandiloquence of Coldplay. Songs like “Saturday” and “Love On The Weekdays” warn against hot-and-cold girls, while “Tomorrow” and “Time Warp” have a nostalgic, pensive feel to them. “Wasted” is a classic pairing of heartbreak and alcohol, and even that is delivered well. Lyrically, Downplay are proficient, so don’t fear the typical downfall of rock bands.
The band struck alternative rock gold with this obscure but highly enjoyable pairing of rock and jazz. This is an album that could appeal to various listeners, whether you like punk, metal, pop, or rap. If you are in for an amazing journey of a listen that will slowly propel you through an emotional roller coaster, don’t hesitate to spend a
Saturday on this album.
