Dommin – “Love Is Gone”

Back in 2009, when Roadrunner Records released the news of a new band called Dommin, I was excited and immediately found myself seeking them out. When I finally found them, I took a quick glance at their promo picture and my first impression was that this was going to be a lame gothic band. Was I wrong! Immediately after I pressed play I was shocked. The sound was like Morrissey joining Alkaline Trio and then growing some balls. From that day forward, I was hooked. Lesson learned; never judge a book (band) by its cover (promo pic).

About a year later Dommin released their album Love Is Gone. This record is fairly simple in all ways but there is a catchiness to it. The simplicity definitely works for them. Kristofer Dommin’s guitar lines are power chords well followed by Billy James on bass. Cameron Morris’s drums are also non-technical, keeping a generic beat. Konstatine’s keyboards are single notes giving a dissonant feel to the songs. And to complete the Dommin sound, Kristofer Dommin’s vocals are low, but powerful singing the lyrics with raw emotion. Another artist who worked on this album was ex-Roadrunner Records artist Junkie XL who helped with production, mixing and the arrangements of instruments. What a great name to have helping on an album.

If anyone is aware of Dommin’s past, they will know of their previous album Mend Your Misery, released four years ago. Six of the tracks were re-released on Love Is Gone. One of these songs was “My Heart, Your Hand” which was the band’s first single on both releases. Another song that was re-released, which was my favourite Dommin song, “Without End.” I find myself humming this song throughout my day. Both songs consist of poppy vocal lines and dark melodies that grasp the listeners’ attention.

Dommin has taught me to not judge a band at first glance. Anyone who likes dark rock music should check out Love Is Gone. Fans of Type O Negative, The Birthday Massacre, Kill Hannah, Hail The Villain and Chevelle will love this release.  [ END ]

Track Listing:

01. My Heart, Your Hands
02. New
03. Evenfall Hollow
04. Tonight
05. Love Is Gone
06. Dark Holiday
07. Without End
08. Within Reach
09. Closure
10. Making The Most
11. One Feeling
12. I Still Lost
13. One Eye Open
14. Honesty
15. Remember

Run Time: 51:30
Release Date: 02.02.2010