ACT III: LIFE AND DEATH

I had only heard one song from the Dear Hunter before hearing this album, and I wasn't particularly impressed. Fortunately, I gave this album a chance and was absolutely stunned. This has to be one of the best modern albums I've ever heard!

The whole album is one piece really---and, as I understand it, the first three albums are all part of a soon-to-be 6 part play. The lyrics and concept are extremely intriguing, very deeply written, and thus I don't think I'll ever figure out all of the intricacies to the story... but it doesn't matter. The music is wonderfully produced and played.

The album has somewhat of alternative sound, almost like a much more proggy version of Muse, only infinitely more enjoyable and artistically deep. The vocals are amazing, and the musicianship is proficient, as well as being completely full of soul.

Needless to say, I will definitely be checking out the first two releases by this band, and I suggest this to anyone who wants to hear a fresh sounding album that is heavily enjoyable.

This is nothing short of a masterpiece, and a glorious example as to why 2009 is quickly becoming one of my favorite years for music ever.