The highly anticipated debut album from The Daytime High, aptly titled “The Daytime High”, was officially released on September 13, 2024. Recorded at the Garudio in Thousand Oaks between 2022 and 2023, the band took a hands-on approach to the production, meticulously mixing the album with Curt Piar, except for the track “Melting,” which they handled themselves. This self-produced ethos shines through the entire record, imbuing it with a raw authenticity that reflects the band’s vision of crafting powerful, memorable songs.
The album opens with the energetic “Every Single Day,” immediately setting the stage for what’s to come. The track bursts with punchy guitar riffs and driving percussion, providing an anthem-like start that grips listeners from the first note. As the album progresses, tracks like “Waterfall” slow the pace with atmospheric melodies, creating a sense of emotional release while exploring themes of introspection.
“Never Good Enough” adds a deeply personal touch, grappling with feelings of inadequacy and existential musings. The melancholic undertone of this track resonates with the album’s overarching themes of loss and self-reflection. The band explores darker emotional terrain while maintaining an irresistible alt rock energy.
“Driftin’” shifts the mood with a more relaxed, laid-back vibe. It’s a perfect soundtrack for a reflective evening, blending catchy riffs and smooth rhythms, giving the listener a sense of emotional ebb and flow. The band’s ability to balance chaos and calm becomes evident in tracks like “Pandemonium” and “Melting,” the latter of which was self-mixed by the band, adding an intimate, homegrown feel to the sonic explosion.
Themes of dark humor and existential reflection are ever-present, especially in songs like “History Man” and “Reaper.” The album closes with “Open Up,” a track that feels like an invitation to further explore the band’s world—both emotionally and sonically.
With The Daytime High, the band aims to create songs that stand the test of time, bringing joy, introspection, and emotional resonance to all who listen. This debut marks the arrival of a band ready to leave their mark on the indie rock scene, combining powerful lyrics, memorable hooks, and a thoughtful production style that will undoubtedly resonate with their growing audience.