Darker My Love‘s third album Alive As You Are was officially released by Dangerbird Records on Tuesday. And on that warm evening, our ears were treated to the entire album along with a few other tunes at the tiny and dark Bootleg Theatre.
Darker My Love - Rain Party.mp3
Darker My Love – Rain Party [MP3] off Alive As You Are
Before the festivities commenced, Tim Presley (lead vocals, guitar, writer, soft-spoken, very cool guy) came out to smoke and chatted with me and another guy who Presley recognized from previous shows. Presley, upon learning that tickets cost $14, was bothered. He said it should have been $10. Now, hearing DML live is worth much more than $14, but “it’s a lot of money,” Presley said. Could I like him any more?
Having heard a few tracks off the new album beforehand, I was aware that it was a different direction for DML-–the right one. It has definitely been a growth period for them, as is quite apparent in not only the emotional lyrics (which stem from difficult experiences in the past couple of years), but the overall musical arrangements and feel, too. DML is a family and they are inviting you over to hang.
Around 10:30 p.m., the floor was filled with eager music lovers to hear the new baby. Presley, Rob Barbato (vocals, bass, writer, bearded dude, jokester), Jared Everett (guitar, obviously works out), Will Canzonerti (keyboards, wish I got a picture of him, but there was no light on him) and Dan Allaire (intense drummer and also with Brian Jones Massacre) all come together as one solid unit. The first three songs were shots over the fence. “18th Street Shuffle” especially caught my attention. The entire set–including past hits “Blue Day” and “Even In Your Lightest Day”–was met with cheers.
Darker My Love - She Lives (In a Time of Her Own).mp3
Darker My Love – She Lives (In a Time of Her Own) [MP3] (cover off The Psychedelic Sounds Of The Sonic Cathedral: A Tribute To Roky Erickson And The 13th Floor Elevators
DML’s sound did not completely change. It’s just now topped with layers of emotional lyrics, fresh guitar grooves and a much tighter, fresher sound.
While it was difficult to hear the beautiful words of the new tracks, DML should be proud of the show and their new work. Catch them when they are back in town opening for Band of Horses at the Greek on September 24 and 25 (tickets) and watch for further updates on their blog at darkermydudes.blogspot.com.
Please also note that openers Pet My Saddle and Wounded Lion kicked ass.
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