Music is therapeutic and for the self-described, “Morbid and masochistic” Bayside, music may be what has kept them out of padded rooms.  Lets make one thing clear, Alkaline Trio isn’t the only band that can make morbid punk rock so enjoyable.

I hate to keep referencing the Trio, but because they are one of my favorite bands, I can’t help it.  Bayside can best be compared to Alkaline Trio in almost every aspect.  The vocals are similar to Matt Skiba’s, the melodies and drum riffs show similarities, but find solace in the fact that Bayside is NOT a cheap rip off.

On their debut Victory Records release Sirens and Condolences, the band’s pain is clearly real.  They’re not trying to mock other bands.

Singer and guitarist Anthony’s vocals are full of raw emotion and are extremely crisp.  They are artfully crafted and seem to define his mood.  The vocals rise and fall, paralleling feelings of anger, sadness and triumph.  

Sirens and Condolences is all about seeking one's inner-self and opens with "Masterpiece," a song that urges a close acquaintance to, "Just accept yourself / find something that brings you closer to complete."  And much of the album follows the pattern of doing things like, "Go[ing] through boxes of old pictures / see if I can bring myself to the brink of giving up," to deal with life's hardships.

Imagery is rampant on Sirens and Condolences.  Songs like “Talking of Michelangelo” and “Masterpiece” set vivid scenes for the listener to picture while taking in the power of the music.  

Musically, Sirens and Condolences has an overall gritty tone, however, everything is very tight and to the point.  Jim's drumming pounds with classic punk rock fury and incorporates strategic rolls in all the right places.  The guitars have a dark melodic feel to them with soaring solos and harmonies as heard on "Alcohol and Alter Boys."

Bayside have something unique going for them and I give Sirens and Condolences an 8.5 (out of 10).  These boys are getting some good press, have shared stages with bands like The Used, Further Seems Forever and yes, Alkaline Trio.  If they keep it up, they'll be a household name in no time. 

Suggested Listening: “Masterpiece,” “Phone Call From Poland,” "Alcohol and Alter Boys" and “How to Fix Everything.”