'Dusk and Summer' was a perfect choice of album name for Dashboard Confessional's new full length. It is obvious, even on first listen, that this will be the soundtrack to many an adolescent summer, long days ending with warm light from a fading sun and the sounds of Chris Carrabba's soulful strummings.
It is evident immediately that U2 collaborator Daniel Lanois has had an impact on the band and that is what Dashboard are on this album; a band. Listening to 'The Places You Have Come To Fear The Most', their second album, an ignorant listener would assume that Dashboard Confessional is a solo artist, occasionally enlisting the help of a drummer or bassist on more upbeat tracks. 'Dusk and Summer' is not in the same vein. Sure, Carrabba is still writing the songs, still playing his electro-acoustic, still keeping his voice as the signature of the band, but now the tracks are fuller. Rich drums and bass provided by Mike Marsh and Scott Schoenbeck respectively- as well as second guitarist John Lefler, give 'Dusk and Summer' a much rockier feel.
'Don't Wait' was a wise choice for a first single; with heartfelt lyrics and an almost-screamed anthem-like chorus, it is sure to be played again and again on radio stations everywhere, and you wont be sorry to hear it. Like almost everything Carrabba has done, 'Dusk and Summer' is exceptionally well written. The songs arent designed to be groundbreaking, they're designed to be loved and played again and again. It's their timeless quality that makes them special. Tracks like 'Rooftops and Invitations', and the title track are set to become permanent fixtures on the iPod favourites list of Dashboard lovers everywhere.
Having said that, 'Dusk and Summer' will do little to convert those who dislike the band. It is, to a non-fan, more of the same. A fuller sound has not changed the style of the songwriting, or the lyrics that many have deigned immature or, worse still (!), emo. There is filler here too, closer 'Heaven Here' takes a long while to lift off, as does 'Currents' which never really reaches its potential. UK bonus track 'Vindicated' will already be owned by most Dashboard fans but will certainly be appreciated by those who do not already have it in their collection.
In the end, 'Dusk and Summer' is textbook Dashboard; honest, sad, and simple. The lyrics are as emotional as the multi-million selling 'A Mark, A Mission, A Brand, A Scar' but with less self-indulgence. The record in general feels less sorry for itself than Dashboard's previous offerings. 'Dusk and Summer' is less like a fourth album, and more like a continuation of a brand of sound, staying faithful to a collection of music that will never fail to integrate itself into your life. Welcome it in.
Additional info: There are seven hidden tracks on the album, whether this is just the American version I dont know. They comprise of two interviews and five acoustics. They were sent to me separately and are worth a listen. Good luck finding them!
