Review Summary: Peerless
"White stained red
Of vacant eyes
The hallow dreams
Of a barren life
Saline solutions
Yield no resolutions
Sleepwalk through
This pain induced
Coma of wakefulness"
The stars truly aligned for the stunning 2006 Daylight Dies release, "Dismantling Devotion". That's not to say their other work is poor by any measure -- indeed the group remain my personal favourite doom metal band to date (chiefly due to this album) -- but whatever profundity possessed this band I've not found duplicated anywhere before or since. Dismantling Devotion is nothing short of a monolith of the style; nearly every track, even every damn moment is taken to its nth degree. The band were evidently blessed with an incredible supporting staff. This album epitomizes getting the most out of an artist, and if this site's community reviews are any indication, the band has not since matched the elegance captured on this superlative effort.
This record is the most genuinely gorgeous synthesis of elements I've yet experienced in doom metal (and to some extent metal at large). Lush acoustic arrangements, layered atop slathers of guitar-laden effects, counterpointed with delicate melodic riffs, juxtaposed over the longing, hearty gutturals of Nathan Ellis, and the serene, soothing cleans of Egan O'Rourke. The band's command over and use of sound is simply engrossing. Every element of the album's construction is superbly executed and mixed. The drums are thundering and clear, the bass is thick and full, the many layers of guitar are nothing short of regal in their delivery and sound, and the contrasting vocal performances absolutely put this album over the top. Egan and Nathan's confluence of talent are as individually brilliant as they are complimentary, and sincerely amongst the best vocal duos I've yet found in metal. Customary of the style, the lyrics throughout are evocative and rich, introspective and emotionally candid. Barre Gambling and Charlie Shackelford weave an elaborate, wistful world, lulling the listener into contemplative respite, inviting escapism. The band's apt use of counterpoint, and the dynamics between the atmospheric and more immediate elements are a superb constant throughout the album, deftly handled and mixed.
Truly, without reservation, this album is as beautiful as it is impressively and legitimately 'metal'; vulnerable, ponderous, fluid, and yet ardent, vigorous, and crushing. Some albums are impressive from a constructive standpoint, that is to say well designed and executed. Some albums are deeply thought provoking and emotionally compelling, inspiring great personal sentiment. This album, whether you're a fan of doom metal, metal generally, or simply enjoy somber, melodic music with an open mind, appeals to a broad spectrum of listeners. It is as well designed as it is captivating. It is as gracefully executed as it is visceral. It is powerful and inspired, and yet subdued and pensive all at once. Dismantling Devotion is (as so many superb works are) a sinfully overlooked gem of both the style, and metal broadly. An authentic and distinguished formative effort, of which no band ought ever bear shame for not duplicating. Will lightning strike twice for Daylight Dies? Time will be the judge. You owe it to yourself as a metal fan -- and triply so as a doom metal fan -- to track this album down. May this wonderful group of artists become part of your life as well.
Favourite Tracks:
A Dream Resigned
A Life Less Lived
Solitary Refinement
Lies That Bind
