The Dangerous Summer cover

The Dangerous Summer

The Dangerous Summer · 2018

36 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of alternative rock that captures the essence of youthful optimism and introspection across its tracks.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    This Is Life — This track encapsulates the album’s themes of seizing opportunities and embracing the moment, featuring an uplifting chorus that energizes listeners.
  • →
    Wild Again — With its driving rhythm and evocative lyrics about personal freedom, this song represents the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with deeper narratives.
  • →
    Live Forever — This track stands out for its anthemic quality and introspective lyrics, discussing existential themes while encouraging listeners to cherish fleeting moments.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

49 /100
Foothills
Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album combines energetic tracks with reflective moments, showcasing solid songwriting and production.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks maintain a high energy level with driving rhythms and anthemic choruses, while the fourth track introduces a more subdued atmosphere.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
  • The album closes with two tracks that gradually slow down the tempo, allowing for a reflective conclusion.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
  • heartfelt anthems for reflection
  • energetic melodies for road trips
  • uplifting vibes for group listening

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
The Dangerous Summer marks a significant return for the band, being their self-titled album after a hiatus following 2013's 'Golden Record'. By 2018, the group had reformed with a renewed focus on their sound and emotional depth, showcasing their evolution as artists while maintaining their core identity.
Stylistic neighbors
The Maine· Mayday Parade· All Time Low

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Ghosts

    The writing shifts from nostalgic reminiscence to a poignant acknowledgment of moving past memories, showcasing a maturity in perspective.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Color 3:09
  • 2 This Is Life 3:22
  • 3 Fire 3:40
  • 4 Ghosts 4:19
  • 5 Luna 3:13
  • 6 Wild Again 4:15
  • 7 Valium 2:51
  • 8 When I Get Home 4:00
  • 9 Live Forever 3:38
  • 10 Infinite 4:22

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata