Dogwood "Seismic" CD
[Tooth & Nail]
Here's some rockin' pop punk reminiscent of some of the better Fat Wreck Chords releases of the mid-90's with vocals that definitely bring to mind a less snotty NOFX to some degree. The main difference is that oddly, while less than diverse, this record isn't all that consistent in the effectiveness of the songwriting department. It's a good listen, but there are only a few songs that really jump out at you. "Conscience in a Cave" is catchy as hell, though not exactly as upbeat as some of the other songs it's definitely memorable and very rhythmic. "Sunsets are But Once a Day" breaks out a moderately fast tempo, octave chords galore, vocal harmonies, and totally sounds like a lot of that old Fat Wreck/NOFX type of stuff, as does "Faith". Lots of Lagwagon ripoffs are thrown around in the guitar department (think "Trashed", but not as energetic) through some quick little note based runs and succinct rhythmic breaks of silence, but the track's overbearing christian lyrics turn me away, I can't lie. "Crushing" is similar to the other songs but faster and a bit more aggressive. I guess it's a Logos cover, whoever the hell they are. Good song, though. The recording isn't half bad but really needs more oomph. I'd like to hear more bass, definitely heavier guitars, etc. Right now the vocals and drums stand out a bit. The bass presence is strong, but not strong enough to beef up the guitars, so the core of the music is lacking a little. The layout is really cool. It's mostly text, aside from a large band photo and the front cover, but everything still looks really interesting. The arrangement and the textures keep things from being too bland. "Faith" seems to be the main song that has blatantly christian lyrics, where the other tracks are either dealing with personal issues or leave things open enough as to not beat the listener over the head. "Possessed by the pawn. Affect a secret smile. Challenge your poison. Your vigor is my trial. Weary when you wait. Executive degree. Process to restrain. The fate you have for me. You make sure what you're running to. You made sure what you're running from..." All in all this is an okay record, I really like a lot of the songs, but it's not winning me over 100%. If all of the songs were as catchy as "Conscience in a Cave" or the title track this record would kick ass, though. (6/10)
Running time - 33:10, Tracks: 12
[Notable tracks: Seismic, Conscience in a Cave, Crushing]
Tooth & Nail Records - http://www.toothandnail.com

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