Lead singer Chris Carrabba may have left his journal under the poison tree too long this time. Florida native emo-rock band Dashboard Confessional released its fifth studio album The Shade of Poison Trees Oct. 2. While a slightly different sound from the group's recent works, the record may still suit the moody youth looking for a good cry. Fans hoping for an album similar to The Swiss Army Romance should probably not get their hopes up.
Unlike the band's previous albums, this album is predominantly acoustic. While it is a lighter sound that works well on some songs, it limits the group's range and ability to build up to dramatic climaxes, which are effective in emo songs because of the nature of the genre. The album may be an attempt to move toward the generic alternative or acoustic rock sound the band started out with, but it's not really the back-to its-roots kind of album the band was probably aiming for.
It was tricky to find any standout songs on the album. The songs are all mediocre, and none of them jump out as strong singles or hits. The title track "The Shade of Poison Trees" is a soft acoustic song ready to stir up emotions in its listeners. The acoustic sound is most effective on tracks like this one in capturing the right mood.
On the other hand, songs like "The Rush" could have benefited from an electric sound, heavier drums or more of a crescendo leading to the chorus or just anything to give it more life. After all, the lyrics do repeat, "And I'll know I'm alive." The song sure doesn't suggest it.
It's hard to predict how Dashboard fans will enjoy the album. It's of a similar vibe to the group's first heavily acoustic album, but it's not the same as what fans are probably expecting. Any fans disappointed in the album should check out music from some of the group's contemporaries. Those who like Dashboard Confessional might also like Something Corporate, Jack's Mannequin, Taking Back Sunday, Brand New or Bright Eyes.
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