By Omar Tanamly (November 17, 2003)

Rating: 

"In Reverie" marks Saves The Day’s fifth release to date, and overall is an excellent addition to this New Jersey-based band’s impressive repertoire. It’s got the trademark vocals that you can always count on with Saves The Day, but there’s a twist thrown in! Saves The Day has made a new album believe it or not, unlike anything they’ve ever made before. That includes "Stay What You Are," Saves The Day’s epic release of 2001, an immensely popular album. What, do you mean that "In Reverie" will not be just a melodically, predictable, emo-punk regurgitation of their previous record? Absolutely. 

"It’s stupid. There’s so many bands making ‘Stay What You Are’ right now. We don’t need to add to the ‘Stay What You Are’ madness. We already made ‘Stay What You Are’," comments singer/guitarist/songwriter Chris Conley. It’s true, in the end; a change for the better in the band’s style can be greatly appreciated for its power-pop nature. However, "In Reverie" is not a complete, 180-degree turn from the band’s past. Trademark vocals, incorporated elements of their punk influences, and sing-along choruses can be found on "In Reverie," just not as plentifully. This does not, however, decrease the credibility of the album; it is actually quite refreshing. Intriguing riffs and structures really energize this album.

Eben D’Amico, veteran bassist, adds a unique level of intricateness to the album with his magnificent bass lines, slipping in and out of the weave that is "In Reverie." Guitarist David Soloway and drummer Pete Parada, the newcomers to the band, also demonstrate their admirable musical capabilities.

Power-pop, indie, emo, whatever you like, this album draws influences from such bands as The Posies and the Get Up Kids, as well as vocal techniques some would attribute to Buddy Holly, but not without the respectable Saves The Day stamp marked on every bit of it. Additionally, "In Reverie" has hints of bands like Brand New and The Early November on it, either way it is enough to make not just die-hard, bleeding-heart emo kids pick it up at their local cd store, but you too! ‘In Reverie’ is a solid album, but will probably take some getting used to.

Highlights on the album include the first single "Anywhere With You," catchy "In My Waking Life," captivating "Monkey," and back-to-back memorable tracks "What Went Wrong’ and ‘Driving In The Dark.’ "In Reverie" has an enchanting air to it, a cd that will make you want to sit down and do nothing but listen to every second of it, and then show it off to all of your friends.

Saves the Day is on tour now with Taking Back Sunday and Moneen. You can pick the cd up at a music store near you. .

http://www.savestheday.com