Dawnbreed 7 Inchers

Man, it took me a while to get this shit together. Sorry for the delay, but you know how things can get. Today's four-EP post chronicles the drastic evolution of Germany's Dawnbreed. The early EP and split with Switzerland's Mine see the band trying their hand at the screamy chaos their American counterparts like Frail and Honeywell were dabbling in (the Mine tracks are great; near the goodness of their LP if it weren't for the muddy production). Then I'm throwing in their track from the "Plot" comp because it shreds and it provides a good segue between the early stuff and the awesome, mid-period "Kiosk" LP. Finally we arrive at the more indie-rock Dawnbreed (or Dawnbreed 5?), sauntering right into the open arms of their future band, Monochrome. I still love the "Kiosk" material best, but the later tracks sound more than pleasing to these San Diego ears. The early ragers showcase a very talented young band, but I don't know about all that screaming. It tends to grate on the nerves.



4 Dawnbreed 7"s and a comp track

Song Of The Week: "Electrifier" (Monochrome)

Staying on the theme of Dawnbreed and labeling, it's finally Monochrome time. I'm almost certain the "indie-pop" tag has prevented many potential fans from checking this post-Dawnbreed band out. "Pop?" With that heavy drum production, stark bass and guitar interplay, and seven minute duration? I think there's a lot more going on here.

"Electrifier" from the awesome "Laser" CD

or

"Electrifier" (mediafire)

Recession Chic

It's time for another example of '90's experimentation that didn't suck. Dawnbreed's "Kiosk" LP was neither too screamy, too metal, nor too pretentious. It followed the golden mean in every way, except for being excessively good! Heavy, artful (as opposed to 'arty'), smart, and aggressive are all decent but inadequate adjectives for a band I refuse to brand with any other label but hardcore. They differed from most bands under that banner, and were so much more besides; but I prefer to leave it at that.

Dawnbreed's "Kiosk" LP (on Common Cause Records and ripped @ 320)

Next week: Dawnbreed 7"s!!!