Dashboard Confessional - 'Dusk And Summer' (Vagrant) Released 03/07/06

Take Jack Johnson off repeat, toss ‘Back to Bedlam’ onto the barbie - the only chillout album you’ll need this season is ‘Dusk and Summer’. After 2003’s million-selling LP ‘A Mark A Mission A Brand A Scar’, Dashboard Confessional have swooned back with their emotional brand of acoustic heartache that is set to soothe the most tortured of souls. Dashboard Confessional were originally conceived as merely an outlet for Carrabba to write acoustic based songs outside of his band Further Seems Forever, but now after three critically-acclaimed albums they are fast becoming a rock institution.
 
Opening track and first single ‘Don’t Wait’ has a bright, sultry sound that highlights the more controlled and mature vocals of Chris Carrabba.The track is enhanced by the strong harmonies that make it ideal radio fodder. What makes DC excel above other acoustically-led bands is Carrabba’s undeniable talent to write thought-provoking honest lyrics that go beyond the boundaries of a standard love song.  “Oh sweet lungs don’t fail me now, your burning has turned into fear, that trails me in every step. I’m moving quick but you’re always on my heels” sings Carrabba on ‘Reason to Believe’.

The stand-out track is the captivating ‘So Long, So Long’ which could make it onto any romantic compilation. The lyrics drip with emotion, while the minimalist sound is haunting with only an enchanting piano and guest backing vocals from Adam Duritz for company. The fact it’s as depressing as an EastEnders omnibus makes for a poignant listen. The darker edgier side of the quartet is evident in ‘Slow Decay’ which acts as a welcome alternative and stops ‘Dusk and Summer’ descending into the trap of one song blending into the next. ‘Rooftops and Invitations’ shows the two definite layers of Carrabba’s voice. The silky and flowing first layer is used on many of the slower tracks but the second spikier more forceful side is in action here.

Bonus track and previous ‘Spiderman’ soundtrack single ‘Vindicated’ hinders, rather than helps, the LP. The hugely commercial sound and addictive chorus is more stylish and accomplished than the other ten offerings. Therefore the fact it was written and recorded a few years ago means there hasn’t quite been the predicted progression that would result in the band breaking into the mainstream.  

However, with upcoming Leeds and Reading festival dates, Dashboard Confessional are sure to seduce many more with their fourth studio album. So kick back, relax and forget all about Ronaldo!