In the eight years since Dashboard Confessional released an album, frontman Chris Carrabba has kept himself busy. Firstly he reunited with Further Seems Forever before taking a foray into Americana folk with Twin Forks. Nevertheless, Carrabba has now returned to the project that made him the “emo” poster boy of the mid-2000s.

With a reputation for writing first-hand, deeply personal songs, ‘Crooked Shadows’ sees Carrabba mature, taking on a more “we” then “me” route. Nevertheless, there are familiar traits of Dashboard’s emotive pop-rock style.

‘We Fight’ brilliantly starts things on a high. Carrabba’s hushed vocals give way to an impassioned chorus covered in unity; “we fight a way out”. When paired with the springy ‘Catch You’, it’s a bright opening.

Throughout his time as Dashboard, Carrabba has continuously proved his credentials as a sincere, anthemic songwriter. ‘About Us’ is the latest in a long line of these types of songs; uplifting and empowering. The title track follows in a similar vein as Carrabba’s vocals soar alongside a distinctive guitar melody.

At just nine songs deep, ‘Crooked Shadows’ stylistically doesn’t flow. Although it begins strongly, it lacks consistency as Carrabba and company provide a mix of steady pop-rock and bittersweet ballads. ‘Heartbeat Here’ is the trademark intimate acoustic song that has somewhat defined Dashboard Confessional’s career. Later ‘Open My Eyes’ arrives with succulent harmonies courtesy of Against The Current’s Chrissy Costanza. Likewise, ‘Just What To Say’ comfortably plucks past the finish line as Carrabba sings about his struggles to express himself.

While the blend of stripped back numbers and full-band efforts can be accepted, ‘Belong’ sticks out like an unfortunate sore thumb. With its irritating synth melodies and sun-soaked lyrics, it’s an unfavourable misstep into EDM-pop.

Although there are signs of progression, ‘Crooked Shadows’ doesn’t entirely mark a new chapter for Dashboard Confessional. While it’s not a complete nostalgia-fest, ‘Crooked Shadows’ does contain a handful of songs that fit in nicely into your “Essential Dashboard Confessional” playlist.

3/5

‘Crooked Shadows’ by Dashboard Confessional is released on 9th February on Fueled By Ramen.

Dashboard Confessional links: Website|Facebook|Twitter|Instagram

Words by Sêan Reid (@SeanReid86)