Golden Mixtape

Shows like Saved by the Bell, Boy Meets World and Degrassi (I still watch new ones at 25, don’t hate), have been a staple in my life since I was old enough to understand how the remote control worked. It was through these shows that I learned about all the aspects of life, mostly love. See, I wasn’t a popular gal. Boys weren’t/aren’t barking up this tree, so the only time I ever experienced heartbreak was through the eyes of my favorite characters. It was there that I saw the true pain of a break up. So every time I listen to a record where all the songs are heavily influenced by a romance gone wrong, I put myself in the shoes of Zack, Cory or Craig and then I understand a little more. That’s what I had to do while the tragic tales of A Day Without Love’s Island played on.

If “emo” hadn’t existed before this instance, this record would be the defining moment. If the track wasn’t about what a girl did to their self-worth, it was about the state of being alone. Let’s go with the horrid stories of the heart. The lyrics were never really sugar coated with whimsy, they were straight to the point; this girl did a number and here’s how I feel about it. Songs like “Freeze” and “I Am Nothing” follow that manner.

Now onto the other theme A Day Without Love had going on; loneliness. These seemed to be the more universal songs since not everyone has been in a relationship, but everyone’s felt alone. “Island” and “It’s Been a Long Time” both sound like things I have stored away in Word docs in folders assianged alias’ like “funny pics” and “Skuzzlebutt.” Skuzzle’s my family dog, and yes, she was named after s creature on South Park. The vocals on the whole record weren’t the strongest, but the overt lyrics more than made up for them.

I’d like to point that out, but I’d also like to note that the vocals finally stood out more than anything in “Everything is Beautiful.” You have to give credit where credit’s due, right? Another note, well more like a questions, who are these girls who cause this much pain? Are the bred somewhere?

While I had to step into character to get behind the break up songs, I was able to identify with the other half of A Day Without Love’s Island. This one’s obvious, but if you’re a fan of Dashboard Confessional, then check this band out. Island is out now.