The Lincoln Log

Local upcoming band, A Skylit Drive (ASL) has released their first EP titled “She Watched the Sky EP.” This general Screamo band from Lodi, Calif. consists of Jordan Blake, vocalist, Brian White on the bass, Cory La Quay going crazy on the drums, Joey Wilson and Nick Miller on the guitar, and Kyle Simmons on synthesis and keys. For fans of Screamo music, ASL should be paid close attention to.

Chances are you’ve probably never heard of ASL because they are an up and coming band. If you’re a fan of Saosin, Bless the Fall, From First to Last, Choidos, or Thursday, (before their current album flop, which sounds horrible for those who were thinking of purchasing it), definitely go and check out this band or buy their album. ASL stays true to the Screamo formula while maintaining their identity in this seven-track album. The EP is short, intense and filled with emotion—exactly how I like my music.

ASL uses a good amount of electronic synthesis in the background, which differs from your normal Screamo band. Unfortunately, their individuality ends there. I can tell you one thing: they don’t sound any different from the average “fashioncore” band. Unfortunately, they’re notably generic, besides their synth, there isn’t really anything that makes them pop out from any other Screamo band. While listening to this CD, I got lost in the duration and forgot who I was listening to and thought it was Choidos. The song “Hey Nightmare, Where Did You Get Them Teeth,” further reinstates that claim. However, they put on a great show. If anything, go see them live. This band has amazing talent. The breakdowns in the songs that aren’t generic are nothing short of amazing.

The lead singer Jordan Blake’s vocals could be easily compared to Geoff Rickly from Thursday and Craig Owens from Choidos when he sings. The album starts off with an introduction-type song, and their CD builds up greatly from that, which displays a great amount of intensity. “Drown the City” is the second song of the track, which I especially loved. What hooks me in to a song in general is the beginning. This song has the most amazing intro, however, still generic.

If you really want some great post-hardcore music, I suggest you check out Underoath because this band is timeless.

This CD is a great start for A Skylit Drive. Hopefully they find their own unique sound in their next album. However, do not let their generic sound stop you from buying this CD, or discourage you from at least giving them a listen because they are a great find. This band has a great deal of talent, which should not go underrated.

3 stars out of 5