Dance Gavin Dance

by James Brock
(Pineville, Ky, US)

A five piece band with two vocalists, a bassist, a guitarist and a drummer. Though most people will say that they are post hardcore which they largely are, they have different aspects of various genres. At times it is reminiscent of funk with smooth guitar riffs.

Starting with their first record, which was an ep, and still regarded as one of the greatest pieces of post hardcore music, 'Whatever I Say Is Royal Ocean', is a six song disc.

With the soulful, r&b style vocals of Jonny Craig and the screams of Jon Mess, this record melds the best of what the entire band has to offer.

Following Whatever I Say Is Royal Ocean, the band recorded a full length album titled Downtown Battle Mountain. Though some thought it to be lesser than the ep, it was still a fantastic album ridden with ups and downs for the listener.

After this record DGD experienced a painful split as Jonny Craig left. He was replaced with Kurt Travis. Dance Gavin Dance recorded two new albums with the new front man, one being self-titled and the other is called Happiness.

These were very successful records, Kurt was well accepted by some, though some refused to accept Kurt as the new vocalist for the group.

Much to the delight of fans of the band, former vocalist Jonny Craig rejoined the band and recorded the followup to Downtown Battle Mountain.

It was titled Downtown Battle Mountain II and was released in 2011.

The band is currently on tour and I can say from experience that they are phenomenal to watch live.