Any Day Now are from Cricklade, near Swindon, and profess to be a very energetic emo band. At least they’re honest, telling us what kind of music they play so to not confuse us miserable hacks who get blamed for pigeonholing bands. They’ve also changed their name to The Forgiving apparently – that’s how long it’s been since they sent this record in for review. So, while they have an identity crisis, hopefully the music will remain the same. There’s very much an AFI-influence here with the vocalist screaming bloody murder in the same style as Davey Havok. Now there’s nothing wrong per se with that, especially when you do it with panache and vigour as vocalist Rob does on all four of the songs, but for me if a band is to take it to the next level – and by all accounts ADN/TF are about to do that – you need a little extra something.
All four of the tracks here are very well performed, have solid structures and have distinctive vocals which do catch the ear, but there is something missing. I’m reliably informed that the lads will tear you a new arsehole live, such is the power and energy they possess in a live setting. If that’s the case then ‘Who Lies For You Will Lie Against You’ is a tad disappointing because that potential isn’t relayed in full. But there are parts that are excellent, maybe even a little Strike Anywhere in the guitars, until Rob starts doing Davey impressions again. If I could give quarter stars then this mob would have 3 and a quarter out of 5, but I just don’t think this recording is quite worthy of 3 and a half – there’s something missing, an extra sparkle maybe, and if the band are as good live as I’ve been told, it’s maybe just down to first recording blues. Bigger things probably await, they’re just not within the confines of this disc.
Paul