Augustana- Midwest Skies and Sleepless Mondays

Record Label: None

Year: 2003

Track listing:

1. "More Than a Love Song"

2. "Lullaby"

3. "Only One"

4. "Angels"

5. "Found My Place"

6. "Maybe"

7. "Midwest Skies and Sleepless Mondays"

8. "Boston"

9. "Empty Days"

10. "Not Alone"

11. (Hidden bonus track)

I love Augustana, and fell in love with them after hearing their song 'Boston'. A friend sealed it for me by sending me their latest album, as well as this album.

Self-produced, and released before the band had signed to a record label, this album was sold at 2003 shows in the Midwest and Southern California.

It shows shades of the band that is Augustana now, and there is something special about this recording, that I love. I think the fact it is a glimpse of Augustana before their fanbase, and impact began to develop.

Nevertheless, it is an album that new fans should get their hands on. Their sound is still the same, and it even features the track 'Boston', in a version that is almost stripped down.

The vocals on this album are raw, yet show the style of melodic sound that has made the band famous.

Lead singer Dan Layus has a vocal style, which could almost be described as breathy. It is one that really stands out, and makes the band just that little more different. Another thing I love about this band, is that the lyrics are not mindless wastefulness, but ones that are contemplative, well-thought out, and well-communicated.

Whether this album will be re-released is something to hope for. It’s a great first attempt for a band that didn’t even have a record label, and for one that only sold 1000 copies.

Songs not to miss: Boston, Empty Days, More Than a Love Song, and Lullaby.

For those who have not had the pleasure to discover this band, definitely check out their latest album, Can't Love, Can't Hurt and All The Stars and Boulevards. Trust me, it will definitely be worth it.

I give this album 4/5

Buy Can't Love, Can't Hurt

Buy All The Stars and Boulevards

Official site

Augustana on Myspace