The Last Dance- Once Beautiful

The Last Dance have really come into their own on their last few albums, solidifying the elements that make them great into a consistent sound marked by ethereal synthesizers, Rick Joyce’s squealing guitar, and Jeff Diehm’s heartfelt vocal work, all held down by the subtly threatening throb of Peter Gorritz’s bass line. The band’s newest album continues that tradition, and tracks like “Together Alone” and “That Never Was” are guaranteed to please the band’s growing fan base, but there are some toothier numbers here as well. Diehm seems a little more playful with his voice this time around, more willing to experiment with different styles. “World Down,” for example, starts out subdued, with Diehm talking more than singing, before bursting into a dramatic chorus as the guitars kick in, and “Secrets” stands out as one of the most aggressive tracks the band has recorded, all distorted vocals snapped through gritted teeth. The album’s softer moments are just as engrossing; Joyce’s finger picked chords on “Wake Me Screaming” are a highlight, and “Become Forever” closes things out with lush pianos. There’s also a treat for fans of now-defunct darkwave darlings Switchblade Symphony, whose lead vocalist Tina Root shows up to share vocal duties on the unabashedly gothic love song “Wish Me Closer.” Alternating between Mediterranean atmosphere and epic dark rock, this is a song made for the clubs, and pushes this album from “great” up to “must-have.” The Last Dance are becoming well-known in the gothic scene both in the U.S. and abroad – and deservedly so – but if you haven’t heard them yet, pick this up. You won’t be disappointed.

Go to www.thelastdance.com for more information.