The Longest Day of the Year - Carapace

The Longest Day of the Year

Carapace
self-released; 2014

3.8 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

The two things I thought about when listening to Carapace by The Longest Day of the Year was that this band probably sounds great live and the lead singer sounds like a more chipper version of Tom Waits. The Longest Day of the Year is comprised of T. Mule (guitar/vocals), Brian McCosky (lead Guitar/vocals), Dan O'Donnell (bass/vocals), Darin Graber (drums) and Melissa McGinley  (electric violin/vocals) who play their own blend of Americana-infused country/rock. 

Carapace is a treat to listen to for a number of reasons. First off the production is top notch. The band sounds like they are playing in a live room together but also there is enough polish on these tracks that they are radio ready. Some of the band’s finest moments are also their most melancholy and sincere. The combination of that voice that sounds like it’s seen a world of pain combined with the violin that sounds like it’s crying is definitely a sweet spot for the band. 

The band starts the album out festive and hopeful with “Live Wire.” It’s a solid start from the band that immediately establish they can write a good tune with infectious melodies. Make sure not to miss the guitar solo about two-and-a-half minutes. “Last Gray Day” is where the band introduces a bit more melancholy, which I think sounds so good on this band. It contains impressive violin and guitar.

“Black Horse Canyon” sounded like an alternative version of “Turn The Page” towards the beginning of the song. I was getting more impressed as the album continued but “Coffin” (pardon the pun) was the nail in the coffin. T. Mule delivers a heartfelt vocal performance and if you pay attention to the lyrics I think it will be pretty hard for you to get through the song without being misty eyed.

As the album progresses there are a number of other highlights including “Shadows or Waves,” “Me & Jeroboam & The Moon” and “Ride On the Carapace.” That being said there weren’t any songs that didn't have something to offer. Another reason this album works so well is because of the pacing. It’s obvious the band put thought into the sequential order and if you listen from the beginning to the end you will notice the trajectory they put you on.

Overall, this is a very good album that deserves repeated listens.

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