Review Summary: A fine day for rocking, if I do say so myself
The name Dan Avidan probably conjures up images of a man sitting on a couch with his friend, laughing his ass off at video games or his friend sending unhinged text-to-speech rants in the morning. If not that, then it brings to mind a sparkly, leotard-clad singer, flanked by a keyboardist dressed as a ninja, singing comedic songs about failing to get laid. Dan Avidan has built himself on the foundations of comedy, and it’s worked out quite well for him (arguments about Game Grumps’ current quality notwithstanding). However, there may be those who listen to Ninja Sex Party, and find themselves wishing that Dan’s voice be put to a more serious project.
Well, friends, let me introduce you to Shadow Academy, a collaboration with songwriter and producer Jim Roach, which focuses around crafting catchy rock songs derived from works of literature. Quite the mature outing for a vocalist who’s probably most well-known for songs titled “Dinosaur Laser Fight” and “6969” (though those familiar with his other band, Skyhill, probably aren’t that surprised).
To cut straight to the chase, Shadow Academy’s self-titled debut is a whirlwind of rock influences, from the gorgeous lyrics of Rush, to the fuzzy guitars that call to mind Muse, all whipped up into 46 minutes of awesome. Sit back and let opener “White Whale” sweep you away with distorted guitars, catchy drums, and Dan belting his heart out. It’s probably the most energetic and heavy track on the record, with the possible exception of “Fall Like a Meteor”.
Very luckily, the rest of the album dazzles in its own ways. “Invisible” and “All for One” provide fist in the air anthems that are sure to have you singing along, while “Cast No Shadow”, “Once and Never More”, and “Kaleidoscope” prove that Avidan can croon with the absolute best of them. And then there’s “Wind and Waves”, where the duo’s prog influences shine through the most clearly. Behold a gorgeous 6 minute epic that seamlessly blends moments of intensity with quiet ambiance and piano-driven passages. It’s the strongest statement on the album, and I wish we had more of it. Maybe next time around.
If I had to level criticism at the album, and the rating should prove that I
do have criticism to give, it’s that the album isn’t really a unique beast in a sense. The songwriting can be a little predictable, and aside from maybe “Wind and Waves”, none of the album tries anything that could be considered “unique”. Then again, I don’t think Avidan and Roach really set out to make something unique. They set out to make something catchy and fun to listen to. Still, while they unquestionably succeeded, the album can feel a little safe the more you listen to it.
Safe it may be, but
Shadow Academy is still a powerful debut, and arguably the best thing that Dan Avidan has ever attached his name to. With its lyrics, instrumentation, and vocals, Avidan and Roach have crafted a solid debut, and one of the best arguments for Dan further pursuing rock music, and generally serious music as a whole. Let’s hope Shadow Academy’s future is a bright one.
