Dead Letter CircusThis writer is an unashamed, unabashed fan of the mighty Dead Letter Circus. In fact, he rates them among his favourite acts on the planet, so expectations when a new album drops are exceedingly high.
Very early impressions of this, their self-titled fourth album, were that it is kind of a garden variety Dead Letter Circus album — that they hadn't really extended themselves in a songwriting and playing sense like they had earlier in their career, that they were operating within themselves.
Multiple further listens certainly revealed more layers, and the record's own unique charms become increasingly apparent. There are a great many excellent moments here, Running Out Of Time, in particular, is a great Dead Letter Circus song, featuring lashings of their typical drama and intensity. Heartline reaches some spectacular heights too.
Viewed in isolation, this is an excellent Aussie progressive/alternative rock release, chock-full of adrenaline-fuelled, fist-pumping moments, strong musicianship and a masterful command of musical dynamics. Frontman Kim Benzie's vocals are as impassioned and on the money as ever. As part of this band's illustrious canon of work, it is unlikely to be looked upon as either a true shining light or a low point (they're probably incapable of the latter anyway).
This is a good, solid Dead Letter Circus album that should please their legions of fans.
