ACT III: LIFE AND DEATH

Following my initial listens I thought this album to be a huge disappointment. With each other Dear Hunter release I was immediately hooked, but this one just seemed to lack any energy or that golden catchiness other releases have had. This is most likely because Act III lacks the power, sing-a-long choruses that so defined the previous acts, especially Act II. This should be of no concern as this album marks an improvement in every facet for the band.

Aside from what I've mentioned, Act III continues in the same vein as it's predecessors. The music is highly layered and filled with excellent vocal harmonies and great melodies. However, everything is kicked up a notch. Here we see strings and horn sections comprising a much larger role in the music. The band has moved further from an augmented post-hardcore band to an orchestral indie/prog outfit. Technically the band also seems to have improved with Nick Crescenzo giving a particularly excellent performance on drums (aided by a fantastic mix). And most importantly to me Casey begins experimenting with his voice exploring some different areas. I especially like his falsetto during the chorus of "The Tank".

Overall another perfect album from this band really. Act III combines just about everything we've heard from the previous two and elaborates on them. Fans of the band will love it and it could possibly even turn some haters. Probably the best album of 2009.