Independent labels in the UK and the USA are growing, mainly due to their ability to find and foster adventurous, distinctive, and generally new talent. Saddle Creek is one such USA label started by the artists themselves and boasting acts such as Bright Eyes, Azure Ray, Cursive, The Faint, and this band, Now It’s Overhead. DARK LIGHT DAYBREAK is a fine collection of rock songs, beautifully produced from a band worthy of greater recognition.

Let The Sirens Rest is a gentle rock ballad infused with an expressive, strong vocal and instrumental sounds (especially guitar) which provide a sharp focus. It’s a gorgeous start. Estranged is next and opens with a wall of voices that ultimately dominate the song. It’s epic rock gospel with great lyrics; “I want so bad what we had…” Believe What They Decide is simple, classic country rock featuring shimmering guitars, pleading vocals and a melody strong enough to keep the boat afloat. Other highlights include the highly rhythmic Type A, the dense and ghostly Dark Light Daybreak, Meaning To Say with its ringing guitar and powerful drum passages, and the strong folk vibe of Let Up with its sharply focused vocals and earthy instrumentals.

This is one album that forces one to want to see the band perform in the live arena, and I have no hesitation in commending it to you.

4/5