Review: Skyline Awake “s/t” 7”

I believe this is the last release for this band, put together for their final shows in September of 2004. Offered up are two more tracks of strong melodic hardcore with an "emo" edge to its heavier tones. This is not the screamy junk that most people think of when they hear the term "emo" these days, though. I'd definitely put this more in line with the classic 90's version of the sound (think Texas is the Reason and that kind of stuff as an example, but not as a comparison). "Subtext of a Downfall" uses nice dual guitar interaction with note riffing over thicker chords balanced out by clean passages; while "No Matter" is more of the same stylistically, tending to be midpaced with some dual guitar parts and a mix of open melody and heaviness, plus a little added dissonance to its rhythms. The vocals are sung fairly well, with hints of shouting, but they need to use more harmonies, definitely. Vocal harmonies would really make "Subtext of a Downfall" an awesome song. I'm fine with the production. The tones are strong, the mix clear, etc. It's not too messy at all, though a little smoothness and upping the bass levels might be nice. The sleeve is really clean with mostly text and an iconic logo, plenty of metallic silver ink, and a small insert for the lyrics. This time out the lyrics are still personally but better than before, open but more honest and creative. "Distance keeps me free, So take your hand from your mouth - save your vicarious embarrassment for someone else..." It's a damn shame these guys broke up, because they were great writers and really could've progressed nicely. This material is definitely stronger than their song on the split EP with Races to April. Oh well... you can't win 'em all. This is a good record, if nothing else.