Album Review: The Dangerous Summer - War Paint
Let's admit it, The Dangerous Summer's 2009 album, 'Reach For The Sun', was a revelation to many and it more or less came out of nowhere. However the problem with producing such a favorable and impressionable record like 'Reach For The Sun,' is that it can be difficult to produce a strong follow up. Nevertheless, The Dangerous Summer have nothing to worry about as, 'War Paint' is equally refreshing and radiant and it's predecessor. From the opening moments of the title track, the Maryland four-piece sound musically satisfying, whilst AJ Perdomo's honesty and reassuring vocals bring about an overall warm feeling.Throughout there are moments of 'War Paint' being a worthy follow up, even at times exceeding it. 'No One's Gonna Need You More' is a thriving pop punk number that just makes you smile. Whilst 'Good Things' and 'Miscommunication' open up bright, yet show evidence of the bands maturity as writers with Perdomo coming off as sincere.
Much like it's predecessor, 'War Paint' has a warm, flowing tone that gives its a sense of consistency. However for some, this may sound like a flaw. Whilst it is a pleasing style, after so long it sounds somewhat tiresome. Nevertheless, the gorgeous guitars work from Cody Payne and Bryan Czap, consistently adds to the powerful impact tracks like 'Everyone Left' and 'I Should Leave Right Now' contain.
Lyrically, the band are both lethargic and potent, and compliment the band's mid-tempo and melancholy tone, ultimately making 'War Paint' a comfortable record that does not outstretch itself yet nor does it lack progression, as The Dangerous Summer have taken the right steps forward towards greater things.
Although it maybe hyped as record of the year, it certainly isn't yet. 'War Paint' has strong longevity and an equally strong feel-good factor to leave a lasting impression.
4/5
'War Paint' by The Dangerous Summer is available now on Hopeless Records.
Official Website
The Dangerous Summer on MySpace, Twitter and Facebook.
Sean Reid
