Search - Running From Dharma :: Hoping for the Better

A good start

02/08/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It's not clear from the title, but this is actually a split release from two different bands from Central PA. Hoping for the Better is not the title, but the band from Lancaster. I had the good fortune of seeing both of these bands play this material live. Say what you want about emocore, but both of these bands were amazing. While it's not captured on record as well, HftB were simply incredible. Lead singer Chuck looked as though he were breaking himself into pieces during every song, his performances reminiscent of the late Darby Crash in that often he paid no attention to the microphone as he performed. It didn't matter that you couldn't hear him occasionally... he's definitely one of the most charismatic front men I've ever seen. The rest of the band were amazing as well, with a three guitar performance that actually mattered. It really is a shame that the record doesn't get their live show across.Running from Dharma, on the other hand, perform better on record. Don't misunderstand, they're a great band live. The whole band was solid, but most entertaining was Jason Sunderland. He played one of two basses in the group and, without really trying, made himself the visual center. As for the record, however, the definitely seemed more focuses in the studio. There is polish and production value, but not at the expense of passion and sincerity. Local producer/engineer Jason Drayer can take credit for at least part of this. I spoke to him at several shows and admired his approach to recording.The music reminds me of Promise Ring, Fugazi, Hot Water Music, and even Quicksand. Perhaps not quite so hard charging as these bands, but from the same breed. There's emotion attached to the electric guitars that you don't hear in most mainstream music. RfD is more advanced musically, with odd time signatures and smart, quick transitions. The recording uses space effectively and the drums sound amazing (the credits thank their studio drum tech for it, too.)The only complaint I have is for the nonsensical cover. Designed by Jeff Caudill of Gameface, it has no relation to the music and is purely uninteresting. I guess the bands just wanted someone famous to have a part in it, and this is their only mistake. They do much better on their own.Though this focuses more on the bands than the music, suffice to say this is what you will do once you hear the record. It really is an introduction to two bands that make amazing music and completely transcend the idea of "local band makes good". This is music that works. Give it a shot."