It seems somewhat strange that Story of the Year haven’t gotten bigger than they are. Around the time of ‘Page Avenue’ they seemed to have the world in the palm of their hand, but for whatever reason they haven’t grown in the way many expected they would. Perhaps their sound has actually become less commercial, maybe there are less ‘singles’ – either way, Story of the Year aren’t the MTV-fodder band many expected they would be on the basis of the likes of ‘We Don’t Care Anymore’ or their energetic live shows, backflipping and all.
‘The Constant’ is a really good record. It’s full of massive songs, again none of them are hugely commercial or catchy, but the singalongs are there in force and some of the riffs are massive. ‘To The Burial’ is one of the best songs the band have ever penned, from the awesome guitar work to the power contained in the vocals. I didn’t really have too many expectations with this album because of what I’ve said above, so this was a nice surprise. I think the band’s move towards being a more credible rock band that riding on the coattails of a dying musical trend helps them no end – this album feels honest and it feels passionate. I don’t think anyone could argue ‘The Dream Is Over’ and ‘I’m Alive’ sound anything but massive.
If you like choruses but nothing too saccharine sweet, if you like riffs and solos but nothing too heavy or prog, then ‘The Constant’ is the album for you. A welcome return to form.