For many years, Toronto’s melodic hardcore crushers Mil-Spec have been one of the most consistently kickass bands on the hardcore underground. They always bring the big, climactic mosh moments, but they never stop exploring. A couple of months ago, they released a new self-titled EP, and it kicks ass. Meanwhile, we’ve got guitarist Dan Darrah releasing solo music that sounds absolutely nothing like Mil-Spec.
Dan Darrah seems to have a bit of a Kvelertak/King Hüsky thing going on between Mil-Spec and his solo records. On his own, Darrah releases twangy, dreamy, acoustic-heavy indie rock without a shred of aggression in its bones. His music is really, really pretty, and he makes a lot of it. Earlier this year, Darrah released his album There’s A Place. On Friday, he quietly followed it with a new one called Vacationland. I spent some time with the record over the weekend, and it sounded great in the background while I was reading a book. I suggest you play it for yourself, possibly while also reading a book. It’s below.
Vacationland is out now on Sunday Drive.
