Reviewed by Ian Webber

With three previous studio releases under their belt, this is a settled and mature offering from the Indiana-based metalcore outfit. Not departing from the strengths of previous albums, HTD's sound is built on a pummelling wall of noise, driven by double drumming and littered with chugging breakdowns. With vocals that jump all over the place, Stephen Keech manages to leap effortlessly from wrenching screams to a cleaner sound over the pop infused choruses. The best examples of this can be found in "Haunting" and "Babylon" where the metalcore intensity gives way to melodic sections. The only track that seems to sit awkwardly on the album is "Labyrinth". Although full of experimental orchestrations it ends up sounding a little thin. The band has however developed their lyric writing. HTD bring an honest Christian analysis throughout the tracks. "Invoke Reform" urges the listener to not give up hope, and more overt lyrics point towards God's action in the world. The album concludes with an emotive, acoustic re-recording of "Autumn". This high point is lifted above the rest as it provides the necessary variety in an album that at times sees the tracks merge together with similar guitar riffs and sounds. 'Dreamer' is a polished album that fans of previous HTD recordings will enjoy, but it does little to challenge genre leaders such as Underoath.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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