Dial-7 have went through some rough times, after parting ways with Warner Bros. and second band frontman Shauny B. not long ago the future of the group was in turmoil, but through it all they have returned with a revamped sound that focuses on the pop/ska element of their sound on this demo. The hip hop/rapcore edge that once played a major part in the bands music has been replaced by catchy hooks and bouncy grooves integrated into a generally more polished song structure. Comparable to 311 in some aspects for their incorporation of pop melodies with shades of ska and rap, this group rolls out tunes with enough flavor and spring to keep a variety of different minded listeners heads bobbing. Vocals are smoothed over and polished with a raspy edge sort of familiar to M.C.U.D. of (hed)p.e., but straying from the rawness of the latter, the tones here are done with a restrained cohesiveness and a generally mellower range, some brash raps topple over the upbeat rhythm section transforming into melodically compelling choruses that pull the listener in with a party rap vibe. Accomplished at both aspects of the game, the vocals mesh well in the refreshingly positive musical environment and feel full making it hard to even notice the absence of Shauny. Guitars strum through ska/reggae chords that combust into clean tuned distortion that motivates and thrust the tracks forward. At times serving as backup for the thick basslines while at others akin to a gas pedal for a speeding car, they screech through the speakers swerving through the listeners ears with an established footing in the songs structures. Bass is groove heavy and funk tinged, with mild reggae overtones, snappy notes and slides couple with constant chord progression that smugly shoves onward. Talented and non excessive, the riffs played feel warm and propel the bands music while connecting firmly with the percussion which features a rich tuning and constant snare improvisation. The drumwork laid down here is expressive and precise weaving a tight web with the lowend, never missing a beat, all the while giving enough space for the rest of the instruments to have a fair say. As an extra there's some 808 styled bass hits to keep the vibe animated with thunderous rumbles and even a surprising guest appearance by some female back up singers in a soul meets ska capacity. In contrast to the bands previous effort Dial-7 have shed a layer of skin going for a more radio friendly sound. There's still a slight aggressive edge present that has enough power to keep the older fans happy, but the overall softer direction the group have headed in could alienate fans that were more accustomed to their previous works. As a whole this CD is very solid, there are a few moments when it can feel a bit cheesy, but it's consistency and uplifting charm keep it in check creating an enjoyable listen and escape from the constant battering of darker more visceral music. Dial-7 have definitely punched in a new 7 digits on this demo, it's not necessarily the number for fans of heavier music, but if given enough exposure and the right opportunities the digits dialed will easily be the ones of listeners calling the radio station to request the band's contagious brand of summertime groove.
(4 / 5)