Album Review: The Dear Hunter - 'Act I – The Lake South, The River North'

Ok, I know this EP came out last

year, but I only bought it/heard it this week and am so impressed that

I felt it deserved a review. 

The Dear Hunter began life as

a solo project from ex “The Receiving End Of Sirens” guitarist Casey

Crescenzo, who was either asked to leave TREOS or left on his own accord

(depending on how you ask) at the beginning of 2006.  

Rather than joining another established

band or disappearing off the face of the musical map, Casey went about

composing the material which was to make up The Dear Hunter’s debut

EP – and I’m glad he did because this record is one of the most

refreshing things I’ve heard in a long time. 

“The Lake South, The River North”

contains 5 actual songs, as well a vocal introduction and 2 instrumental

pieces (which also include various samples), which gives you an idea

of how ambitious this EP is. Not only did Casey play every instrument

– except the drums and a few select guest appearances from members

of his family – he has pieced together a story courtesy of his lyrics.

For those who are turned off by the grandiose of concept records this

may sound like a disaster. However, if you want a little more from your

music you will really enjoy this aspect of The Dear Hunter. 

Musically, the songs remind me

of a less “pop” version of Muse. Epic, drawn out vocals, mixed

with discordant guitars and intricate keyboard parts make each and every

a song a journey. While not possessing the same range as Muse vocalist

Matt Bellamy, Casey Crescenzo isn’t far behind. So impressive is his

ability behind the mic that it makes you wonder why TREOS didn’t hang

on to him.

Giving a blow by blow account

of each track wouldn’t do this EP justice - it needs to be listened

to as a whole. The Dear Hunter now have a full line up and a new record

which I plan on picking up shortly, and I can only hope a tour down

under is on the cards!

1. Battesimo Del Fucco
2. The Lake South
3. City Escape
4. The Inquiry Of Ms Terri
5. 1878
6. The Pimp And The Priest
7. His Hands Matched His

   Tongue

8. The River North