With the release of their fifth album, In Reverie, Saves the Day once again takes a step in their musical development, changing their sound yet again. Leaving behind the emo and punk sounds of earlier releases, In Reverie becomes more of a rock and pop album. To top the change in style, in a few songs lead singer Chris Conley’s voice seems over produced becoming too smooth, and somewhat reminiscent of a young choir boy singing in an elementary school recital. Even though the sounds are different from earlier albums, it is still not completely removed from their last release Stay What You Are (the now somewhat ironic title for many STD fans).

At first listening, this c.d. was a bit of a disappointment. Thankfully, after listening to it more, the melodious sounds and poignant lyrics (as in all of STD’s works) make the new style become less noticeable and even somewhat appealing. Saves The Day’s lyrics have always been dripping with metaphors and satire. The lyrical appeal is still apparent on this album; however, metaphors hidden behind violent lyrics (nailing to a wall, sawing a thigh, drinking blood, to name a few) are a thing of the past. Now the imagery is enshrouded by lilies, love, and a glimmer of contempt. The display of love culminates in the song “She,” in which Conley sings a slow (excruciatingly painful) ballad. (Personal note… “She” is the first song of STD’s that I have ever skipped over on a continuous basis.) Thankfully the other songs are much more bearable, and actually fairly catchy.

To new Saves the Day listeners, even ones that became fans from Stay What You Are, this is a great rock album. To Saves the Day fans of the days of Can’t Slow Down and Through Being Cool, this c.d. may be too much to handle. Whichever listener you are, the bottom line is this is a strong release from a highly talented and influential band that should not be overlooked.