D.K. Lyons – The Past (Romanticized) – Album Review

NYC based songwriter D.K. Lyons has wasted no time in showing the world his capabilities. Bursting onto the scene with his debut album The Past (Romanticized), Lyons has poured his heart and soul into the songs and stories on the record.

Spurred by his personal life and fueled by the loss of his father at a young age, Lyons credits the late great Tom Petty as the driving force behind his desire to create music, an artist his father loved and shared with him. Though this record is rooted in alt-rock territory, Petty’s influence does not go unnoticed. Lyons writes honest, relatable stories that are the highlight of this debut effort.

HERE’S WHAT WE DUG MOST…

The driving beat and supremely catchy chorus in The Getaway make for a very strong opener to the album. The harmony line in the chorus is ear-catching and keeps the listener guessing as to where it’s going.

Shades of Amber is lyrically a just little reminiscent of 3am by Matchbox 20 or She Talks to Angels by The Black Crowes, where a picture of a captivating girl is painted pointedly, one line at a time. Lyons has done so beautifully here and without any of the usual clichés.

The pop-punk influence on Lyons’ music is definitely evident in the melody of Dance Like Shadows. This tender ballad reflects fondly of a love interest from days gone past.

In Sleep With The Lights On, Lyons reminds us of a young Andrew McMahon. The guitar riffs in the verses and breaks are light and varied; they’re as catchy as the melody and they keep the track moving.

The showcase of the gorgeous female vocals that arrive in the chorus of Run To Me is a great addition. They beautifully accentuate the moving story of two people who cannot be kept apart. The female vocals play well against the background synths, blending to create a delicate, ethereal feel.

OUR FAVORITE TRACK…

Long Way Home is the perfect song for a reflective night drive.

“It’s a long way home when you’re out on the road alone…. when you don’t know where to go”.

The lone acoustic guitar builds slowly into a fully produced second chorus layered with dramatic synths, which really ups the intensity of the theme. You can feel the longing for home, whoever and whatever it is, more in each passing line.

We also love Perfume for bringing in just a touch of a country. The jangly, bright acoustic guitars contrast the somber message, saying:

“You can’t miss what you never had but I miss it all the same.”

Once again, Lyons has avoided any tired or overused phrasing and has done justice to the timeless story of the love that cannot be.

IN CONCLUSION…

Well-crafted stories of love, longing, and coming of age. Clear influences from pop-punk artists, but replacing the edginess with emotion. Driving alt-rock instrumentation to bring the messages of his lyrics home to the listener. D.K. Lyons has crafted a genuine, emotional glimpse into his personal life, and its authenticity shines through track after track. Check out The Past (Romanticized). D.K. Lyons below.

WHOSE LOVECHILD…?

Something Corporate meets Third Eye Blind.

BELOW: Listen to his album The Past (Romanticized), and connect with his website and social media platforms. Please support D.K. Lyons by visiting him online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!