The Story Changes: Never In Daydream EP

After an impressive full-length album release in 2014, indie rockers The Story Changes have kept their fans satisfied with their new four-track EP Never In Daydream. The short and sweet taste of what is to come from this band covers all the basics of their classic punk rock style, but leaves listeners expecting and wanting more.

Never In Daydream begins with “The Politics Behind It” and introduces their grungy alternative rock sound in quite an interesting way. The first impression is generic in the opening verse, but the explosive chorus turns the tide of the entire song. A recurring theme of The Story Changes’ structure is how the tempo alternates between the verses and chorus; this starts as an odd mix when first listening to “The Politics Behind It”, but as the instrumentals even out as the song continues, the fluidity between the two connect a raw and pounding melody.

The great thing about this EP is how much versatility and style are packed into just about fifteen minutes. When the next track “Shedding Skin” comes into play, it dominates. The signature jumpy sound of their instrumentation takes the reins, but the vocal compliments are just as powerful. The staccato rhythm of the verse melody provides the perfect punk rock hook. The song itself is quite the ride as well; the tempo and instrumental changes within merely three-minute tracks go from pulsing to eerie to energetic, keeping listeners on their toes every second.

But like any ride, Never In Daydream gets bumpy. It’s hard to follow up such a diverse track like “Shedding Skin”, but unfortunately “Silver Lining” doesn’t do the band any favors. The instrumentals are clearly the song’s saving grace; the track is filled with stand out guitar riffs, but the average melody and dull vocals sing repetitive and elementary lyrics like “Please don’t wake me / if this is a dream”.

Nevertheless, they manage to turn this low point around on their acoustic closer, “North Carolina”. This slowed and stripped down song sounds like the soundtrack to a 90’s/00’s chick flick, filled with heartwarming melodies and surging refrains. Even the lyrics improve with more potent stories and meanings (“The days go by / I’m lost in these memories”). The strong acoustic guitar riffs lead this closing track to a sentimental end, redeeming The Story Changes from their faults.

All in all, this short taste of The Story Changes’ musical status has kept up with its previous pace. Although there were some setbacks that seemed more obvious in such a small sampling of sound, there is no doubting that their stamina is still in check. This small treat for listeners is sure to please old fans and new.