Damn. Just by reading the title of this album, I knew that I was going to enjoy the music. Before the disc hit my player, the band had already drawn me in with an intelligent and witty title, as well as with the expressive artwork on the album’s cover and liner. Needless to say, I was pretty excited to listen to the music when I pressed the ‘play’ button, and The Dear Hunter did not let me down.

The Meaning of, & All Things Regarding Ms. Leading exposed me to a lyrical and musical expression of the deepest thoughts and feelings of it’s creators. Although the music won’t punch you in the face as you listen to it, the lyrics may. Full of euphemisms and deliberate attacks, the album screams of trying to escape a cryptic home and living up to expectations and false pretenses.

In a world filled with screamo/post-hardcore bands, The Dear Hunter brings a new element into the fold. The album is different from the very beginning, coalescent of modern rock, ballroom processions, southern gospel rhythms, and an overall composition that would make the great John Williams jealous. The Meaning of, & All Things Regarding Ms. Leading is a brand new chapter in today’s music, and is (in this writers opinion), paving the way for what great musicians the world over will strive to match.

Musically, the album is quite intense. It blends your standard rock ensemble with piano, violin, cello, and even the grace of a french horn into a melodic and streamlined entity. I would go so far as to say the music has personality.

It’s docile in parts, predacious in others, with crescendos and diminuendos in the midst of beautiful harmonies and counterpoint phrases. If you erased all of the lyrics from the songs, the album would be akin to an Oscar-winning motion picture soundtrack. Lyrics put back in place, The Meaning of, & All Things Regarding Ms. Leading is a musical masterpiece that is sure to be a hallmark of music lovers everywhere.

If I could shake the hands of the members in this band, I would. They’ve created something so musical, so intelligent, and ultimately so beautiful that I’ve placed The Meaning of, & All Things Regarding Ms. Leading into my Top 5 Albums of All Time list. If you’re a musician, you can’t help but listen in wonder to what The Dear Hunter has created - if you’re a dancer, you can’t help but dance to the great variety of styles. You will tango or swing dance at the changing of tracks. I really can’t say enough good things about this band and album. If you get a chance, check out their MySpace profile at http://www.myspace.com/thedearhunter. You won’t be disappointed.

Technorati Tags: The Dear Hunter, Act II, The Meaning of, & All Things Regarding Ms. Leading, Triple Crown Records, CD Review

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