There has always been a certain despondency to Dog Day's music. It could be the weariness in guitarist Seth Smith and bassist Nancy Urich's voices, or the hopelessness of their lyrics ("The neverending pursuit of happiness is hell but it ain't gonna find itself"). Whatever it is, Dog Day have never sounded gloomier that they do on their new album Concentration. In spite of this, the Halifax-based quartet--rounded out by drummer KC Spidle and Crystal Thili on keys--have crafted their finest release to date. Filled with subtle hooks and hypnotic moments throughout, Concentration may take a few listens to fully reveal itself, but when it does, you'll be hooked. With the help of mixer John Agnello (Sonic Youth and Dinosaur Jr.), Dog Day have created a truly possessive album that won't soon leave your CD player. Never before has gloomy been so catchy.