:: A Mark, A Mission, A Brand, A Scar (w/bonus DVD)

Dashboard Confessional

They are probably the most productive and most likely to succeed act on the Vagrant label. This album shows Dashboard Confessional as a premier punk-rock outfit and it will be embraced by their growing legion of fans. Lead singer and songwriter Chris Carrabba brings an emotional voice to his thoughts. The full band that they are now creates an extra scope for Carrabba to convey messages more succinctly. He is ably backed by the guitar and drum sounds. Previously, it was more or less he and an acoustic guitar. Good band tracks are “Hands Down”, “Am I Missing”, and “So Beautiful”. There may be fans who prefer the lonelier Carrabba through the songs “Ghost Of A Good Thing” and “As Lovers Go”. It’s a good balance, though, where the creativity and talent shine through. The CD contains a bonus DVD for Australian fans. This showcases about 25 minutes of studio moments as well as live performances from Chris Carrabba’s solo tour.