Review: Dan Andriano and the Bygones – “Dear Darkness”

Epitaph- 11 FEB 2022

On the first release from his new solo project, Dan Andriano explores new musical territory.

While Dear Darkness is not Dan Andriano’s first solo album, it’s his first with his new backing band, Dan Andriano and The Bygones, as all his other solo material has been released under the name Dan Andriano in the Emergency Room.  I was struck by the album’s psychedelic-style album cover, as I’m not a particular fan of psychedelic music, but thankfully that’s not what this is.  It’s hard to pin down exactly what to call this album as I can hear elements of 90’s power pop a la Gin Blossoms or Goo Goo Dolls, with a touch of country, a little blues, some 60’s pop, and a few other elements.  But what that comes down to in the end is that it’s essentially a pop album, but in a very classic sense rather than the modern conception of pop music.  But, while I can respect the interesting combination of genres that come together to make this album, I have to admit that I find myself a bit bored with the album.  There’s no real hook to this album for me.  Nothing really draws me in and makes me want to listen to it again and again.  It’s more like something I can admire from afar for its unique style— that bears no resemblance whatsoever to Andriano’s two most well known bands, Slapstick and Alkaline Trio— but nothing about this album really makes me feel excited or passionate about it. 

My favorite parts of this album are the killer guitar solos on “Wrong” and “The Excess,” although the former is criminally cut off by a fade-out.  The twangy country-style guitar on the title track is fun and catchy.  Andriano’s lyrics, as usual, are great all the way through the album, and often contrast with the upbeat music.  Much like in Alkaline Trio, the lyrics are generally emotional and introspective, and have Andriano’s typical vulnerability and wit.  The album’s closer “Into Your Dream (The Sophie Moon)” is definitely a heartfelt and powerful closer.  Really, there’s not anything wrong with this album.  There’s a lot good about it, but I feel like I’m only really admiring this album in an academic sense and don’t feel a strong emotional connection with it.  Maybe you will. 

Regardless of my personal feelings on the album, I’m glad to see Andriano continuing to diversify his sound.  He’s gone from ska-punk to emo to the pop/blues/country smorgasbord we see on this album.  With Alkaline Trio’s other vocalist, Matt Skiba, splitting his time in the band between the Trio, Matt Skiba and the Sekrets, and a little band you may have heard of called Blink-182, it makes sense that Andriano wants to branch out into other projects to keep him occupied.  Dear Darkness definitely accomplishes what it sets out to do, and many might enjoy it, even if it isn’t exactly my cup of tea.