Days Between Stations: S/T Review

Lush and haunting sonic landscapes. Screeching Gilmore-esque solos. Instrumental masterpieces. Progressive deliciousness. Songs that tell stories without lyrics. That is just a little bit of what you’re getting with Days Between Stations. When I was listening to this album for the first time, I immediately thought to myself, "Now this is one of the best albums of the year." But wait! It was released in 2007, I’m a year off. Where I have been all this time? And why has it taken me so long to discover one of the greatest things to grace my very ears in such a long time?

The album can best be described as instrumental symphonic prog-- not too different from the likes of Pink Floyd, touching on all eras from the early days, to the golden age, to the Waters dominated section, and the late Gilmore years. The self titled debut opens up with a haunting piano line with eerie vocals and synths dancing around it. The song continues to travel along lasting over thirteen minutes in length, and every second is precious. "Either/Or" sounds like Days Between Stations’ take on Floyd’s "The Great Gig in the Sky". It features soulful female vocals wailing with intensity, which don’t quite touch Clair Tory’s, but effectively purvey a sense of urgency. The song closes down with a nice touch of spacey synth making for one enjoyable ride.

The eerie theme which runs throughout the album becomes a distant memory once "Radio Song" arrives. The song appears to be a little out of place amongst all the dark chill, but on its own, it’s a bright little ditty which feels a little like Muse’s "Knight’s of Cydonia" once the trumpet takes control. Then comes the finale to a record that is marked by epicness (It’s probably not a word, but for the sake of this review, it has been momentarily added to Websters Dictionary.)

"Laudanum" is a four part, twenty two minute song, which is in the same vein as the opening track, leading the listener in a complete circle. It’s the kind of song that leaves your mind floating through space, with a spooky and exotic backdrop delivered by pianos, guitars, synths, drums and whatever other instrument your mind can think of. Soulful guitar solos run rampant throughout, and the album reaches its end with the accompaniment of an acoustic guitar and horns, leaving the listener in a complete daze.

From the very first note to the very last, you will feel miles from solid ground. The songs meander and drift through haunting sonic landscapes, never once becoming complacent and drab. Even on my tenth listen, everything sounded so fresh, and with the musical expertise of Days Between Stations, I can only dream of what is in store for the future. Now only if this album were released this year. It would make for a much easier decision in my top ten list.

Grade: A+