The Dark Romantics--Another Song Ep

Launched from restaurant table discussions in Florida to recording a full length album on the west coast in less than a year, The Dark Romantics have climbed the musical ladder faster than most. Snapped up quickly by Lujo Records after producing some demos with guidance from Jason Martin (Starflyer 59), Eric Collins and Dean Paul set about recording their debut with the two musicians closest to them - their wives Amanda Jones (Paul’s sweetie on keys) and Carla Jones (Collins’ beloved on bass). Some Midnight Kissin’ was finished and is set for an October release. Preceding that however is The Dark Romantics’ introduction to the world, Another Song EP.

The Dark Romantics combine their previous bands’ sound - the Christian pop acts of Denison Marrs and the John Ralston Band - with the tastiness of ABBA, along with electronic influences from Martin’s Starflyer 59, and even some melodic New Pornographers thrown in as well. The result is a darkly delicious indie sound with a dance backbone. The EP’s namesake, "Another Song for Another Night" is a melodic twister with snappy guitar lines and a groovy bass riff, all behind angsty lyrics ("Love, get it wrong / Get it right"). While well-played and fun, the song just doesn’t leave a mark.

Far more interesting is the second track, "So Confused (And We Like It)" and the later TDR remix of the song. Here is not only a more danceable beat, but also a more original and exciting track that shows off the experience and talent of the band. Everything is stripped away to show off the swarthy-yet-melodic vocals before exploding back into the full power of the instrumentals. Clearly the hidden fruit on this EP.

Another Song EP is an appealing introduction for The Dark Romantics. It covers everything that can be hoped for in their full length, from snappy indie pieces to juicy dance-floor beats, all with a haunting edge that’s sure to get stuck in your head and get you moving.

(Published at Sonic Reverie)