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| EP Review: I, The Dreamer Release Shadow Hearts on September 15th |
Formed
in Birmingham, UK, I,
The Dreamer play modern post-hardcore, a sound refined since
hitting the scene in 2016 with their debut single, titled “Battle
Scars.” The band’s new EP, titled Shadow
Hearts,
consists of five solid tracks that show the band retaining its base
post-hardcore sound, one with a mix of sweeping harmonies punctuated
by heavier, distinctly hardcore sounds.
The
EP opens with “Rise,” and immediately the sound strikes hard.
Guitarists Jack and Simon set down some modern six-string flairs with
a decidedly high-pitched sting contrasted by Alex’s rough-edge
vocals, which are soon punctuated by Jack’s vocals. The switch in
vocals happens only seconds into the song, with both vocalists going
from harsh and abrasive to softened croons. The same is true with the
guitars, with one setting down a punk-like riff while the other
weaves around it a softened melody. The undercurrent of turbulence
gives this track its power, with the lyrics giving an undercurrent of
melancholy.
“Echoes”
is up next, and this time the band softens its approach. Both
vocalists channel angst into their performances while the guitars
follow suite, giving this track a distinctly modern vibe. Drummer
Toby switches his heavy percussion for most of the track, although
his stick-work retains that 1950s vibe, particularly when one of the
vocalists uses his scream. More conventional than the previous
“Rise,” “Echoes” is nevertheless a solid track.
Starting
off with Alex screaming his lung out, “Fearless” returns to the
sound established with “Rise,” but this time the band slows down
and lets the music breathe while the vocalists weave their tale of
woe. Bassist James stands out on this track, his undercurrent
furthered by some good drum-work (James also contributes vocals to
the songs). Both guitars are restrained, with one of them shadowing
the bass licks, giving this track a bottom-heavy sound contrasted by
the vocal performances.
A
song crafted upon the sound of “Echoes,” “The Black and White
of Sleepless Nights” brings with it a distinctly modern pop sound,
complete with some subtle electronic effects. There are some remnant
screams, but the overall approach is one of melody, although drummer
Toby continues to push the pace with his rhythms.
The
closer, “A Dangerous Thing,” starts off with a compelling guitar
riff and some harsh vocals that soon soften. The drums are right up
front, with the guitars engulfing the sound from around, giving the
track a frenetic pace. The exchange between the heavy and the soft
works really well here, and the band fires on all cylinders from
start to finish. The lyrics here also sound more polished, with the
cadence well-established and the exchange between the conventional
vocals and the screamed utterances balanced well.
Influenced
by bands such and Sleeping with Sirens, Mallory Knox, and Mice and
Men, I, The Dreamer have established themselvesself as a vanguard
band, one that celebrates the post-hardcore approach by still finding
ways to experiment with their sound. Fans of post-hardcore will
appreciate how the band hearkens to the past but paves the way for
the genre. Order it via Apple
Music or Amazon
(Standby Records).
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