REVIEW: Story of the Year – ‘Page Avenue: 10 Years and Counting’

October 10th, 2013

Matthew Leimkuehler

Artist: Story of the Year
Album: Page Avenue: 10 Years and Counting
Genre: Post-Hardcore

The theme of celebrating decade anniversaries of influential records is becoming a staple amongst the alternative scene, but none have quite done it with the style and tenacity of Story of the Year‘s Page Avenue: 10 Years and Counting. This record is a collection of unique and versatile adaptations of songs we have grown to love over the last decade. From the piano-driven re-invention of “And The Hero Will Drown” to the oddly addictive remix of “In The Shadows,” this record offers something totally different than the fellow decade releases we have seen-it offers a re-definition of the songs.

It’s not simply releasing an unplugged version of a great record (nothing against artists that have done so-few things come close to the magic of a songwriter behind an acoustic guitar playing songs close to your heart), it is the creative angle SOTY brought with Page Avenue: 10 Years and Counting that makes this record stand apart.

“Until the Day I Die” retains the title of most powerful song on this rendition of Page Avenue, just as it did when the record was originally released. The piano replacing the lead guitar in the intro simply sends shivers down the spine. Singer Dan Marsala sounds even better on this version than when the song originally premiered. His vocals are smooth and effective. It’s as though the lines are brand new. As mentioned above, “In The Shadows” is an interesting remix of the original version. It’s heavy and a bit scary at times, but still undoubtedly Story of the Year. It’s a song that could make a healthy transition from punk rock bar to dance club without anyone second guessing.

“Dive Right In” contains a a strong acoustic element that is much needed on the record. The band went in many directions with the record and having this be a traditional stripped-down number felt appropriate. It came at the right time in the record and reflected the mood of the song. It was as though the lyrics, “To ever feel the sun again,” completely reflect the absorbing environment of the music. The other rather disappointing track from the record is “Anthem of Our Dying Day.” Being a fan favorite, one would expect something more theatrical with this track, but it was rather simple. Simplicity has a beauty within itself, but it did not come off as appropriate in this instance. This is not to take away from “Anthem of Our Dying Day,” it still has its moments of bliss, just not what was expected on first listen.

“Divide and Conquer” provides another unique outlook of an old favorite. This song comes off as truly powerful. A string quartet backs a powerful drum ensemble as Marsala provides one of his most powerful performances of his career. Page Avenue: 10 Years and Counting is a remarkable decade anniversary record proving a band can still have an impact with the same songs over 10 years after originally releasing the music.

Rating: 8/10

By Matthew Leimkuehler (@callinghomematt)