Album Review: Second Last Day of Summer by Daydream Plus
Album artwork for Second Last Day of Summer by Daydream Plus
When you think of a band like Tomb Mold, very rarely, if ever, will you think of jazzy math rock. But the Toronto death metallers are not averse to pushing boundaries, and with the Daydream Plus project, they continue to do so. Led by guitarist Payson Power and joined by drummer Max Klebanoff and bassist Kevin Sia, Daydream Plus is a whirlwind of summer loving. Formed in 2020 and with a couple of EPs already to their name, the debut release has been long-awaited by those in the know. For those only familiar with the band’s members for their slightly different sonic excursions, this may take a little while to warm up to. That being said, there is a lot to grab hold of. As the group excels at long, drawn-out instrumental passages, it comes as no real surprise that an instrumental band would be such a good fit for them. Self-described as ‘gently technical’, this project is a showcase of self-expression from start to finish.
The drums really keep your feet on the ground throughout this release, with Klebanoff finding groove amongst the wiggliest of noodles that Power is offering out. For those inclined, you could even throw out a two-step to much of what is being played here, and with blastbeats sneaking in on multiple occasions, there is ample substance to remind you that there is more to this band than just sunsets and dreamscapes. A great example of this is track five, Emergency Exits. Blasts give way to groove, and the juxtaposition felt between the two is breathtaking. The bass parts heard across this record are equally as crucial for reminding you where you’re supposed to be. Working in tandem with Klebanoff, Sia’s role finds the balance between showy and practical with ease. A real master of his craft, he showcases the ability to serve a song whilst still showing what he’s capable of time and time again. Stiletto Flourish is a real testament to this, with the man of the moment being given a chance to take a solo. Tasteful, grounded, and full of life.
The star of this project is undeniably Payson Power, however. He manages to inject so much passion into every moment he graces. The guitar is a voice with which he speaks so fluently, and he is telling you how happy he is to be here. There is so much expression, so many hooks, and such incredible talent. This could only be an instrumental project, as to even speak over what he is doing would be an insult to the ability on show. Time and time again he pulls from somewhere seemingly beyond the comprehension of mere mortals and manages to craft compositions of such incredible beauty. There is not a single note out of place here, and his ability to solo is astounding. A lead guitarist of an incredible calibre, it is clear to any and all listeners that he was born to do this.
A real highlight is the sixth track, More Time Alone. A sweeping, jazzy number that starts as calmly as one might expect from this project by the time it arrives. All feels right and as it should, and then it hits: a saxophone solo. And it is incredible. Coming out of nowhere, it feels as though a solar eclipse is occurring above you. One could not blame you for standing alone for a while as it takes place. It is perhaps the most cinematic moment of the entire album, and a welcome change of mood for the short duration it holds your attention. Another comes from track eight, Nautical Twilight. Another one to stir the imagination, it feels like sharing a lift with someone you’ve known your entire life. Step out into the warm summer air, and let the sunset wash over you. As the trumpets hit, you’ll slowly sway the pain away.
With recording handled by Darren McGill, and mixing and mastering by Arthur Rizk, it is no surprise it sounds as exceptional as it does. The pedigree behind the scenes is no joke, and the Toronto trio are in the safest of hands. Guitars like a warm hug, and bass and drums as natural as the air we breathe. Collaborations from Steve Lamos, Ryo Kishimoto, and Joseph Shabason only add to the mood board. The sun shines on this project, and it shines on you, too.
This is a release for the guitarists, the musos, the Radio 6 dads. Fart sniffers and vibe chasers. An album to drive along to, to sit in the sun and smile with, or to listen to while you kiss your best friends on the mouth. It is so much fun and so joyous. Throw your head back and dance, and live your life to the fullest. This is a summer album of the ages; the timeless feel will keep it with you for seasons to come. If you feel cold in the winter, this will warm you. This is a daydream in audio form, so close your eyes and dream with it. Payson told the press he “just wanted the album to feel like opening a can of pop on an above-average day”, and it does so in spades. It feels like a triumph, like finding a fiver in a coat pocket. It is as beautiful as the day is long. The journey it will take you on is one to experience in whatever way you can, and you will not regret it. Bring suncream, and don’t forget a bottle of water. As the sun begins to set on the album, and the piano brings you back down to Earth, try to remind yourself of what makes you, you. Keep on dreaming, dreamer, and don’t be afraid to chase the sun.
FFO: CHON, Polyphia, Jason Richardson, Toska
SCORE: 9/10
Daydream Plus’s debut full-length ‘Second Last Day of Summer’ releases on the 10th of July via Run For Cover Records, digitally, on CD, and vinyl.
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