Hailing from America, the Day Of (http://www.thedayofband.com) have mastered the art of Christian alternative rock. The right elements, inspired by secular artists, are proudly showcased: a blend of hip-hop and rap ("Be With You," "You Don't Have to Do This"); U2-esque chiming guitars ("You Don't Have to Do This"); acoustic grunge ("Never Far from Grace"); and big, anthemic vocals (on numerous tracks). In other words, originality is not the high point here. But it doesn't matter. When you have songs as catchy and radio-friendly as this, the paint-by-numbers aspects become quite appealing.
The doors for the Day Of were opened by bands such as Creed, Lifehouse, and the Calling, all of whom debuted not too long after the suicide of Kurt Cobain and injected some positive thoughts in a modern-rock world which had become overwhelmingly glum. They attracted listeners who enjoyed grunge's rough musical edges but couldn't quite relate to the negativity in the lyrics. In the wake of 9/11, those artists became the soundtrack for shell-shocked youths searching for peace, love, and understanding in a confusing, scary world. The Day Of reflect those concerns.
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The lyrics in "Awaiting Take Off" are mostly about finding Jesus, acknowledging his sacrifice and praising Him to the world. This is praise and worship rock, the Gospel as filtered through the sonic boom of Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters.
"In the Secret" and "You Don't Have to Do This" achieve remarkable guitar highs; they're breathtaking, elevating the listener. And for those who might possibly be turned off by all this spiritual context, none of it is sappy; in fact, "You Don't Have to Do This" deals with drug abuse and suicide. Give the Day Of a shot; you won't regret it. They may even save your life.
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