ALBUM REVIEW: Dead Letter Circus – Dead Letter Circus
After releasing a re-imagined take on their back catalogue in the form of The Endless Mile last year, it was time for progressive rock darlings DEAD LETTER CIRCUS to head to the studio to begin crafting their fifth studio release. The Australian quartet decided it was an appropriate time to self-title this release which is available now via Rise Records.
The Armour You Own instils an upbeat swagger in the form of crunchy bass riffs and a soothing manner. The upbeat pace and melody get the album off to a energetic start. The Real You continues in a similar vein as a tense, building intro bursts into life with elaborate drum beats that become a prominent fixture of the arrangement. Change introduces a quicker tempo with a steady but effective vibe. The chorus is delightfully addictive as every element of the mix gels together like a well oiled machine, no particular elements dominate the mix.
Running Out Of Time brings a swift lyrical flow as quirky distorted riffing and punchy bass work elevates the track. It’s easy to float away and get lost in the pacey yet peaceful tones. We Own The Light harnesses a gentle melody as the drums provide that added snappy edge. The vocal passages are swathed in uplifting vibes as they gracefully course through the track. Heartline introduces a gritter grungier tone as the track commences with a steady beat before rising in intensity as it progresses. Kim Benzie unleashes a vocal burst towards the latter stages which is utterly spine tingling.
Ladders For Leaders subdues the heightened energy with a solemn, heartfelt tone which could easily have been mistaken for later LINKIN PARK tracks. The emotional fragility of the vocals is poignant but the lyrical content is uplifting and motivational. Trade Places eases you back in as it raises the tempo with punchy bass lines before the textured guitars and vibrant drum beats of Say It Won’t Be Long enter the fold.
Despite this being the final track, Home is where DEAD LETTER CIRCUS begin to display some of the most experimental creativity offered within the entire release with intoxicating, punchy riffs that ebb and flow throughout leaving the album on an emphatic, adrenaline fuelled high.
There is no doubt that DEAD LETTER CIRCUS have produced the goods with this release, it harbours an unassuming nature which possess a multitude of calming qualities but contains so much vibrancy that you feel the urge to bellow every verse and chorus at the top of your lungs. The tracks are personable and cathartic which will cater to all variations of musical palate’s but as the album progresses it tends to exude predictability. The tracks flow effortlessly like continuing chapters of a book which is no easy feat but this also hinders any particular track from grabbing you and rising above the pack.
Rating: 8/10
Dead Letter Circus is available now via Rise Records.
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