American Diary – The Brightest Colors

Artist: American Diary
Album: The Brightest Colors
Label: Independently Released
Purchase: Smart Punk
Release Date: April 3rd, 2007

Overall: 8.0
Music: 8.0
Lyrics: 8.0
Production: 7.5

Recently the East Coast has proven to be quite a breeding ground for new-found talent. As many great bands have seemingly popped up overnight; this however is not the case.The fact of the matter is that these groups have worked very hard and put in the time to hone their craft. One such group being American Diary; who have spent the better part of their young career with the shoulder firmly to the wheel. By taking their music to the legion halls and basements across the Atlantic Seaboard, many have been forced to take notice. Their fanbase has grown exponentially as the band has sold out numerous local venues and moved over 1,000 copies of their debut album Wear It ‘Til You Love it. Shortly after its release the band found themselves in the studio with acclaimed producer Paul Leavitt (Over It, Cute Is What We Aim For, All Time Low) who oversaw the creation of their latest offering aptly titled The Brightest Colors which intensely displays American Diary’s best work to date.

As the first chords are struck “The Goodbye Celebration” sets this seven song EP in motion. American Diary without haste superbly blend all the elements that makeup their radiant pop-punk sound. The song “We Could Be Hero’s” features some intriguing and abstract lyrical content such as the chorus of “This poison called fame and the veins of the insane says that we could be heroes.” Track three entitled “Life With Out Living” seemingly tells a lured tale of alcohol, hookups and overall bad decisions all before it breaks down into a catchy series of kick drum and handclaps. I completely view “Til Death Do Us Part” as the standout track. An intrepid and very dynamic sound resonates strongly as frontman Brandon Ingley’s vocals seamlessly weave throughout it.

After listening I am left wondering what exactly the title “Liberationtoxication” means, but it doesn’t really matter because it’s a great tune nonetheless. Also one that highlights the crunchy guitar-work of duo Ben Diary and Mikey Clark. “You got me shaking like a first class plane crash” opens the second verse of “I Love You I Like You” and I definitely love this song. By showcasing exceptional musical arrangements it’s clear to me that this band will not remain unsigned for long. The Brightest Colors concludes with “Heart Attack Pact” which is a blistering anthem that makes for a perfect ending. As the music fades out the vocals echo and chant “Swing the mic around, you’ll feel me in the crowd. Oh my god lets make a point to tear this place down. You can’t help, we can’t help, we can’t help, but get caught up in this madhouse.” I know I’m completely caught up in this music and strongly suggest giving this band a chance. The only flaw of The Brightest Colors is that I’m left anxiously awaiting the next full length album by American Diary.

Track List
1. The Goodbye Celebration
2. We Could Be Hero’s
3. Life With Out Living
4. Til Death Do Us Part
5. Liberationtoxication
6. I Love You I Like You
7. Heart Attack Pact