"A Place Where the Sun Is Silent" is a very unique concept album by the post-hardcore band Alesana.
I should start by saying I've never been a fan of screamo, harsh screaming in emo music.
Dennis Lee's unclean vocals are some of my least favorite in the genre. Fortunately for me, this album uses him sparingly. I am, however, a fan of lead singer Shawn Milke's less abrasive vocal talents.
The album is broken up into two acts. This idea is designed to fit in with the theme of the album, and there's not much difference between the acts.
The first track, "The Dark World of Error," introduces the first act well, giving a distinct feeling of the introduction of a dramatic play.
The heavy screaming in the beginning of "A Forbidden Dance" turns me off at first, but the rest of the track really impressed me. Supporting brass instruments definitely have an impact and are a nice touch.
Although the lead guitar was performed admirably throughout the album, "Beyond the Sacred Glass" stood above the rest with a very vibrant solo. This is Alesana's first album with its new lead guitarist, Alex Torres.
Choir elements are used in "And Now for the Final Illusion," "Lullaby of the Crucified" and "Circle VII: Sins of the Lion," making for successful dramatic effect.
"A Place Where the Sun Is Silent" experiments with a lot of different sounds; a prime example being "Vestige." Shawn Milke and his female counterpart sing against a lonely piano with intermediate strings and brass. The simplicity of this track makes it easily stand out, and it's certainly one of my favorites.
This somewhat lengthy album is sure to be a hit with existing Alesana fans. From a first-time listener's perspective, I found it to be a musically diverse album, with many different talents on display.
If you want to check out some of Alesana's new and old material see them locally at The Door on Nov. 10.
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