(Damn) This EP is Good

(Damn) This Desert Air are a fairly new band, but its members are no strangers to heavy rock music. Hailing from New Jersey, (D)TDA consists of former members of Nora, Instruction, Elemae, Merciana, Ex Number Five, and others. Their debut EP, 2007’s not so creatively titled “EP 1,” makes up what it lacks in name with what is really important, exceptional music. Here is my track by track analysis of the EP…

“Halo Around the Moon” opens with deep pounding drums, calculated and intelligent guitars, and smooth yet demanding vocals. The outer space bursts are felt immediately by the seemingly endless guitar drifts that are complimented by the tight and aggressive rhythm section. The hard attack is balanced with a beautiful and unique melodic vocal line, as it leads to the liquid bass heavy bridge.

“Calling Orion” starts with another hypnotizing drum beat with hazy winding guitars and bass. Craig Cirinelli's vocals take a soaring melody while the tension builds behind them. “A heavy atmosphere” is mentioned in the lyrics, and is certainly heard in the sound. These songs are intricate while remaining accessible to the mainstream. To anyone who remembers the earthtone9 EP “Omega,” this album conjures up many similarities, and that couldn’t be better.



“This Landslide” begins with slow supersonic trails of guitars over a driving beat. The vocals are exceptional with a memorable and widely creative melody that seems unexpected, but very welcoming. The intense, melodic, and somehow delicate sound builds itself up until it fades out.

“Nightingale” beings with a haunting vocal line only to lead into a transient state with infectious guitar lines and mesmerizing drumming. An acoustic guitar joins the mix to add a terrific texture, before the drums begin the march towards the storm. An alarming guitar line then takes the song to its next level before the crushing chorus begins. This song is constantly building and puts a stranglehold on your attention as you wait to hear what’s coming next. The yells are passionate and powerful as “Nightingale” reaches its climax.

Like all EPs, this one is too short. Not to say the music is affected by that, but rather the opposite. (Damn) This Desert Air have made such a solid debut EP that shows an unbelievably strong promise for this band’s future. They manage to sound quite radio friendly without losing any of their musical integrity. With similarities to Failure, Earthtone9, Quicksand, Far and A Perfect Circle, (D)TDA are definitely a band that will be exciting to watch. Look out for their new EP coming soon.