Although Dark Blue sometimes feels a little exhausted for ideas, it’s a satisfying enough listen. The opener “In Graz” is one of Rotondi’s best offerings, with a smart opening riff and excellent solos. The rhythm section is excellent behind said solos: Allen’s hi hats and Wong’s springy bass is a foundation with a surprising depth. Although Rotondi ensures that the tempo isn’t always the brisk walk of “In Graz”, the moments when he does let the tempo fly freely are often satisfying. Closer “Going to the Sun” is like this, with another fantastic opening riff and an excellent final minute, where …show more content…
None of the music on Dark Blue is necessarily bad; it tends to drag at times, however. “Our Day Will Come” feels somewhat meaningless; even more painfully, “Bc” and “Biru Kirusai”, two of the opening songs that set the record into motion, don’t grab your attention like “In Graz” does. The middle portion of “Dark Blue” tends to be the most satisfying; against all odds, Rotondi’s cover of the Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory standard “Pure Imagination” is lovely, not adhering to the original to religiously. Another notable track is “Highline”, with Hazeltine delivering some more excellent piano