No Motiv have always been the most underrated and generally ignored band on Vagrant Records, despite the fact that they are considerably better than most of the bands on the label. Criminally under-promoted, the band have nevertheless, struggled on and have produced their brand new album all by themselves. ‘Daylight Breaking’ might finally be the opportunity to break out of the darkness and into the light.
No Motiv play a passion-driven blend of rock that brings to mind the melodic sensibilities of Divit with touches of a darker, rockier Weezer and a pinch of the Vagrant sound, especially that of Hey Mercedes. This isn’t technical something-core, this isn’t bandwagon jumping noballs-core, this is straight out rock that packs one hell of a punch, as typified by the driving, anthemic opener ‘Independence Day’.
The band manage to switch seamlessly from dynamic, pacey rock numbers (The wonderful ‘Brand New Day’ for example) to atmospheric, slower numbers that still hide a fast beating heart in the shape of yet another catchy chorus (See ‘Where Did You Go?’ for details) while dropping in at Cure-esque pop (‘Audition’) on the way. While rarely straying away from the core of their sound, No Motiv are far from being a one trick pony.
However, it’s the rousing, faster numbers that really bring the rock and the searing ‘Into The Darkness’ narrowly runs away with the ‘Most Memorable Song on the Album’ award, thanks to it’s fantastic chorus and chainsaw opening riff. But, if we’re going to be honest here, there is hardly a weak track on the record. While a couple of songs tend to wash over the listener if your concentration wanes, there’s nothing to actively dislike, only slight neutrality to a few of the songs.
If you haven’t experienced the melodic joys of No Motiv before now, then I’m not really surprised. Let’s face it, Vagrant couldn’t have been much weaker in the promotion side of things, so it’s hardly surprising that most people will have passed them by. However, if you see ‘Daylight Breaking’ in your local record shop, then don’t hesitate to buy it. It’s nothing fancy, it’s not going to blow you away or change your life, but it sure as hell is a good old-fashioned sturdy, chunky, reliable rock record.
Ross