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Armor For Sleep didn't have to write their sophomore effort, What To Do When You Are Dead, with as much thought and attention to detail as they did. The band could have simply created a successful album through energy and accessibility, but What To Do When You Are Dead is that plus some far more ambitious touches. The idea of developing a concept album alone takes guts and careful consideration, and the band has largely expanded on their previously rigid song formula.
Or, in 10 words, Armor For Sleep sounds a hell of a lot better.
The band's debut full-length, Dream To Make Believe, is a solid, listenable effort, but comparing it to What To Do When You Are Dead makes its lurking lack of variation stick out. Whereas Armor For Sleep's prior work was almost too consistent and bordered on bland, What To Do When You Are Dead marks a firm beginning of experimentation for the band.
Certainly Armor For Sleep's undeniable pop sensibilities still play a major factor in their songs. These guys pen irresistible choruses, which contrast well with the often somber, delicate sounds of the verses. "Car Underwater" and "The More You Talk The Less I Hear" both make such a simple dynamic work wonders, and both have me singing along -- sometimes in public -- with each repetition. Still, the most exciting aspect of What To Do When You Are Dead is the progression it showcases. Lead guitarist PJ DeCiccio is much more daring this time around and gives the songs a lot of warm textures and subtle, additional layers. Vocalist Ben Jorgenson exhibits a much improved range and sense of enthusiasm, which pumps an appreciated feeling of honesty and heart into the music.
In the end, though, this band just writes great songs. From the straightforward, catchy numbers to the surprisingly adventurous songs, such as the moody and electronically tinged "Basement Ghost Singing," the songwriting is intricate and spot on. And, while What To Do When You Are Dead is best when digested whole, it still functions well when there's only time to listen to a few songs. Often that's where the concept album fails.
The concept here is, like the album title implies, an experience in the afterlife. The lyrics actually stand out as heartfelt and believable, no matter how imaginary they are. Based on Armor For Sleep's interpretation, even dying doesn't free someone from the pain and suffering of life. While the content comes across as really depressing at times, it's got a lot of personality.
What To Do When You Are Dead has dominated my playlist over the past month or so. The album features impressively crisp artwork, engulfing production and irresistible songwriting. Great songs don't get old fast, and I'll be returning to this record far into the future.
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