Review by Rachel Jablonski
A stack of CDs to review on my desk, Moonlight Survived on top with the disc in the computer’s D: drive, a coworker comes into my “office” (I refuse to call it a “cube”) and picks up the case. Quickly she says, “Is this another one of those headbanger type albums?” With the preconceived notion that she dislikes any of the music I listen to (I listen to Phil Collins too so give me a break!), you can almost see her cringe. “Nope, not that one,” I reply. “Moonlight Survived,” she reads aloud, “No that title doesn’t sound like it.” It was an accurate assumption.
The smooth pop/rock sound of Florida’s Moments in Grace is a nice contrast to the metal albums that are also currently in my stack of CDs. The debut album has a nice, mellow, graceful feel with a strong rock twist. The chief members of the band lay down the foundation while additional studio musicians elaborate, creating an extremely full sound. The first single, “Stratus,” is a great example of the effectiveness of the instrument combinations. The vocal offerings are penetrating with strong melody and a great vocal hook. The additions of stringed instruments add to the richness of sound. The song sets the way for the gentle and smooth rock feel that continues throughout the album.
Following the opening track with similar principles in mind is “The Patient.” Like “Stratus,” it is a radio friendly song. The vocals show no boundary as they do not necessarily follow the instrumental melody during the verse. The vocal pattern reminds me of a less abrasive The Mars Volta almost. This element seems to work for the song and gives the band a unique flavor.
“My Dying Day” breaks the gentle rock trend however with more of a trendy pop/punk feel. The high trademark harmony of this style produces less rich vocals and is simply not as valuable as other tracks on the album. The song improves with the chorus as it picks up more rock melody, but overall the track’s sound seems out of place as it does not validate the strengths of the band. But other tracks, such as “My Stunning Bride,” regain composure while moving back to The Mars Volta like vocals and good musical harmonies.
Moonlight Survived, the debut album from Moments in Grace, is a smooth rock friendly album. Though it may not be enough to please my deteriorating musical taste coworker, it is sure to please anyone with a thirst for decent pop/rock music.