The Dear Hunter – ‘Act V: Hymns With the Devil in Confessional’

It’s been ten years since Casey Crescenzo started his ambitious, early 1900s concept about the life, loves and adventures of his protagonist, known only as “The Dear Hunter”. Not only has the story developed over the years, but so too has Crescenzo, always striving to create something more elaborate with each passing Act. ‘Act V: Hymns With the Devil in Confessional’ is the first instalment of the series that doesn’t bring a noticeable progression in the music, however this is far disappointing, but rather a testament to the refined and accomplished destination that The Dear Hunter’s unique sound has arrived at.

Given that Acts IV and V were written and recorded over a similar period, it’s no surprise that the two records are stylistically similar. Crescenzo’s ever-superb voice continues to drive each song forward with vocal melodies that are uplifting and memorable and another fifteen tracks float by effortlessly thanks to the variation in the songwriting and styles. Interwoven with the new material are familiar motifs from previous Acts and at this late stage of the story, they bring a warm sense of nostalgia whenever they appear.

Crescenzo transferred his composing skills to Act IV by introducing a full orchestra to complement the band’s sound and on Act V, this idea has been completely embedded. The score for this record is not just an interesting embellishment to bulk out the music, it’s a completely integral aspect that ties all of the band’s interesting ideas together into one luxurious package.

‘King of Swords’ was Act IV’s delightfully surprising number with its dance-pop style and ‘Mr Usher’ serves the same purpose on this record. It’s one of the record’s most memorable tracks, with Crescenzo assuming the role of swing band crooner, complete with double bass, a female chorus line and an infectious toe-tapping beat. ‘Mr Usher’ does a fantastic job of transporting you back in time, immersing you deeper in the story’s concept.

Although Act V doesn’t bring the innovation seen in the past, the result is another outstanding achievement. There’s still nothing else out there that marries together rock songs, classical music, an elaborate concept and faultless songwriting and Act V demonstrates the band’s arrival at the pinnacle of their sound. Though most musicians would see this as a dream location, for The Dear Hunter it’s a catalyst for change. Crescenzo has stated that this will be the last rock album of the series, choosing instead to try something different for the final Act of the story. This is sure to bring an exciting finale to the series but until then Act V serves as a glorious reminder of how special and unique The Dear Hunter truly is.

MARK JOHNSON