First Day Back: A Fresh Take on ’90s Emo
A New Band with Old Roots
Santa Cruz’s First Day Back, though comprised of musicians who weren’t alive during the ’90s, captures the essence of the decade’s foundational emo scene. Formed in 2022, the band emerged from a series of serendipitous encounters: reconnecting with a neighbor from freshman year in need of a place to stay, responding to a lamppost flyer in search of bandmates, and recruiting a bassist from a jazz band who shared a passion for Title Fight. Their magnetic first jam session revealed a shared admiration for the influential band Braid, leading them to name their new project after a beloved song.
Debut Album: Forward
In June, First Day Back released their debut album, Forward, which quickly garnered attention online. Recorded in a cozy Santa Cruz living room by their friend Benjamin Chung, the album consists entirely of live takes, with all five members playing together in the same space. Unlike many contemporary emo bands, First Day Back opted for an organic sound, avoiding click tracks and isolated recordings, except for Maggie’s vocals and violin. This choice imbues Forward with a warm, nostalgic quality.
Musical Style and Influences
First Day Back’s sound is a refreshing departure from the current trends in emo, which often lean towards electronic samples and complex song structures. Their music opens with an energetic yell, plunging into abrasive post-hardcore rhythms, intricate guitar melodies, and the passionate sing-scream style reminiscent of second-wave and Midwest emo.
Exploring Themes and Emotions
The nine tracks on Forward allow the mood to dictate the band’s musical direction. For instance, “Paint” captures the longing for solitude to create art, with Maggie’s evocative violin soaring alongside the heavy fuzz of Nathan and Zion’s guitars. Another standout track, “Us,” delves into familial heartache, balancing delicate guitar work with a dynamic bassline. Maggie’s vocals convey the emotional turmoil of witnessing parental conflict, culminating in a cathartic explosion that mirrors the song’s intensity.
Raw and Authentic Expression
First Day Back’s approach to songwriting emphasizes transparency and authenticity, capturing the essence of private moments, whether it’s screaming into a pillow or shedding tears on a bus. This emotional honesty resonates throughout the album, culminating in the final track, “Wait, Do You Hear That?”, which originated from an impromptu jam that reflected their contemplative state.
Conclusion
First Day Back’s debut album Forward is a testament to their dedication to the emo genre, grounded in authentic experiences and a love for the music that shaped them. Despite their youth and the distance from the ’90s, they evoke the spirit of that era while forging their own identity. With a sound that is both familiar and fresh, First Day Back is poised to make a significant impact on the contemporary emo scene.
FAQs
What genre does First Day Back belong to?
First Day Back is primarily an emo band, drawing influences from post-hardcore and second-wave emo, particularly reminiscent of bands like Braid and Title Fight.
When was First Day Back formed?
The band formed in 2022, following a series of chance encounters among the members while they were in college.
What is the title of First Day Back’s debut album?
Their debut album is titled Forward, released in June 2023.
How was Forward recorded?
Forward was recorded live in a Santa Cruz living room, with all members playing together in one room, which contributes to its raw and authentic sound.
What themes are explored in First Day Back’s music?
Their music explores themes of emotional turmoil, familial relationships, and the struggle for personal expression, often reflecting intimate, private experiences.
