By By Shaun R. Kilroy

For anyone wishing to hear one of the most cutting-edge, independent and unique bands deciding to make a straightforward album while attempting to maintain their unique sound and spirit, A Day In Black And White’s Notes just may be the perfect album. The band has decided to go against their trademark sound, which can be heard at its pinnacle on the album My Heroes Have Always Killed Cowboys. That sound-an aggressive onslaught of ambience, dissonance and meticulously crafted vocal passages-has brought them fanfare and critical acclaim from across the country.

Now, though, the band seems to have opted for a more commercial approach. In place of long, powerful climaxes are catchy guitar riffs oddly reminiscent of the “nu nu-wave” bands, and vocals in the style of a manlier Coldplay. The question remains though: is this a good or bad thing? As tracks like “A Literal Title” and “New Energy” prove, this switch is nothing like those seen in the past, where a band sells out in an effort to escape the “living in a van” lifestyle. Though less hard hitting, the melodies are still very skillfully crafted, with trademark bass lines at the heart of the music. Of course, the vocals remain intensely poetic and relevant to issues of the time.

The CD is approximately 30 minutes in length, with 11 songs ranging from just over a minute to a more standard four and five. There is not much variety on the CD, but if this sound (catchy punk with meaningful vocals) is appealing, then it will not matter. The CD can be purchased now at live shows or on www.29northrecords.com, where you can also find it on vinyl. Check out www.dayinblackandwhite.com or www.level-plane.com for more info.