You know when you stumble across an album that’s not just music but feels like someone spilling their guts directly into your headphones? That’s UniversalDice’s Misfit Memoirs—an emotional rollercoaster disguised as a rock album, and let me tell you, it’s a ride worth taking.
This isn’t your typical “throw it on in the background” kind of album. From the first notes of “My Heart Is in Your Hands,” you can tell Gerry Dantone and his band are here to make you feel things. The opening track sets the tone with its heartfelt lyrics and soaring melodies. It’s almost like Dantone is sitting across from you, sharing a story that’s too personal for anyone else to hear.
What’s wild about Misfit Memoirs is how much ground it covers, both musically and emotionally. You’ve got introspective ballads like “Forgive Me” that pull at your heartstrings, and then tracks like “I Hate You” that hit like a gut punch. That song, by the way, is an absolute beast. It’s raw, it’s angry, and it feels like the kind of song you’d scream in your car after a bad day. The guitar work here is incendiary, with riffs that feel like they’re channeling all the frustration of the lyrics.
Let’s talk about Gerry Dantone for a second. This guy isn’t just a songwriter; he’s a storyteller. Every track on this album feels like a chapter in some epic memoir, which, let’s be real, is probably why they named it Misfit Memoirs. The lyrics are introspective and poetic without being pretentious, which is a rare balance to strike. Take “Surrounded”, for example. On the surface, it’s a song about division and unity, but dig deeper, and it’s also about Dantone wrestling with his place in the world. “We either live together, or we die alone” is a line that sticks with you long after the song ends.
Musically, UniversalDice wears its influences on its sleeve, but in the best way possible. There are moments that give off Beatles vibes, a bit of Green Day energy here and there, and even a touch of Pink Floyd’s depth. But what’s cool is that while you can hear the inspiration, they never come off as copycats. Every song feels like its own thing, especially when you’ve got tracks like Delectable, which balances playful melodies with lyrics that cut deeper than you’d expect.
And can we talk about “Dance Real Close” for a second? This track is pure nostalgia bottled up in a five-minute banger. It’s got that “remember your first love” energy, but it doesn’t lean into clichés. It’s upbeat, it’s catchy, and it’ll probably have you swaying in your living room before you even realize it.
But here’s the thing about Misfit Memoirs: it’s not perfect, and that’s what makes it so compelling. There are moments where the production feels a little rough around the edges. But honestly? That imperfection feels intentional. This isn’t a glossy, radio-friendly record. It’s raw, messy, and authentic, which fits the themes of the album perfectly.
The album wraps up with “Forgot to Say,” a bittersweet closer that feels like a hug and a goodbye all at once. It’s introspective without being overly sentimental, and it ties the whole project together beautifully.
So, should you check out Misfit Memoirs? Absolutely. This is the kind of album that sticks with you. It’s not just music—it’s an experience. Whether you’re here for the killer guitar riffs, the emotional storytelling, or just to feel something, UniversalDice delivers. This isn’t just an album; it’s a reminder of why music matters in the first place.
Final verdict? Misfit Memoirs is a raw, ambitious, and deeply human record. Don’t sleep on it.
Garth Thomas