Day of Fire (CD - 2004)

Day of Fire: Joshua Brown (vocals); Gregg Hionis (guitar).

Additional personnel: Phil X. (guitar); Chris Cheney (bass guitar); Gary Novak (drums); J.J. Farris (background vocals).

Day of Fire was born when former Full Devil Jacket vocalist Josh Brown experienced the grace of God following a heroin overdose in 2001. After his transformation the building blocks began to assemble for what is now Day of Fire. The bands' self-titled debut opus on Essential is a testimony to where Brown has been but more importantly, where he's going. Lyrically the disc is a window to Brown's struggles and eventual victory over drug addictions and emptiness. Cuts like "Through the Fire" and "Time" suggest a man who has experienced transformation with the latter being a warning to those hesitant in making positive change. Musically this disc is rich in textures. There are the savory acoustic moments à la "Cornerstone" and the harmonic filled "Rain Song."The true flavor of the release, though, leans on a straightforward rock vibe. Guitars are chunky throughout with an apt assortment of tasty guitar fills and nuances to fill the void. "Fade Away" is a groove-oriented blues-filled rock piece. The cut is centered by a solid riff while backwards recorded guitar peppers the flavoring. "Jacobs Dream" is a tune that derives its legs from a '70s rock groove. The songs bridge rings echoes of classic Sabbath or Zeppelin tones. Day of Fire is a sterling debut. The disc serves up a strong groove while maintaining excellence in lyrical integrity and musical heft. ~ Steven Douglas Losey minimize