Review
The debut album "Days of the New" is a raw and unplugged gem that dropped in 1997, separating itself from the pack with its entirely acoustic setlist. Travis Meeks, the band's 17-year-old frontman, brings a sense of emotional sincerity to the table with his vocals and lyrics. Meeks' songwriting is surprisingly mature, and his words resonated with a wide audience, even if they sometimes came across as a bit green. The album was produced by the seasoned Scott Litt, who's worked with R.E.M. and Nirvana, and was recorded at Woodland Studios in Nashville, Tennessee. This partnership brings a level of polish to the album that complements the band's energy.
The album is marked by its dark and introspective tone, with tracks like "Face of the Earth" and "Freak" showcasing the band's ability to craft hauntingly beautiful acoustic rock. Standout tracks like "Touch, Peel and Stand", "The Down Town", and "Shelf in the Room" are undeniably catchy and emotionally charged. The album's acoustic sound is a deliberate choice, one that sets "Days of the New" apart from the dominant electric guitar-driven sound of the late 1990s alternative rock scene. Despite the band's internal struggles, which led to the original lineup disbanding shortly after the album's release, "Days of the New" remains a compelling debut that showcases the band's unique sound and promising talent. - Chase
