SDRE came into the music scene with their first album, Diary, as a desperately needed fresh alternative to the growing sea of alt/grunge/metal. People who like Alternative and Indie rock will kick themselves for not having bought this CD when it came out...(like myself).
I'm not one to judge whether bands sell out, I do think that SDRE's music has continued to thrive, probably because each of them is very passionate about the group's sound. As far as musicianship is concerned, I'll make a comparison of SDRE to the likes of Dave Matthews Band and Rush. While in no way sounding like these bands, know that the guitarist and bassist are just as talented musically as the vocalist and drummer. I am a drummer and I think Will Goldsmith wails! That being said, in Diary he really puts his drumming on the map.
Some may criticize about the album being loud and gaudy on parts, and you may not want to listen to it if you have an excruciating migraine; just break out the elevator music! SDRE should really be appreciated by yourself or with a quiet companion, unless your lucky enough to catch them live.
All of Sunny Day's albums, including Diary, have the kind of music you can get utterly lost in. I wouldn't, however, try to get a group of friends onto them in the traditional way of popping it in and saying, "Guys, check this out!" and cranking up Seven. If they ask: "What kind of music do you like?", tell them coyly, "Well, Sunny Day Real Estate is my favorite band...".



Recommended: Yes