Mr. Dream - Fatherland

Mr. Dream's debut album, Trash Hit, was recently featured on my "Best of 2011" list.  The record was a pinpoint in the wave of whatever we call punk rock nowadays.  Trash Hit not only captured the essence of what punk rock is musically, but it more importantly had the mentality that often makes or breaks an album.

Trash Hit's follow-up is a six track EP called Fatherland, which is set to be released on February 28th.  I've previously compared Mr. Dream to countless other acts, so let's leave out the references this time and focus on the group at hand.  I feel like the trio have established a sound that no longer needs an introduction through someone else.

Right from the first note, Fatherland bleeds that very sound.  It's brash, yet slick.  It's plugged in, but everything's hanging out.

The biggest surprise on the album is "Slow Learner".  Mr. Dream has gone acoustic.  "Slow Learner" sounds like that song you hear right before a band's signature single during a sold out show.  You know, that "lighters in the air, everyone scream along" song.  Now I wouldn't go so far as to call it a ballad, because in my mind, an amped-up version would be stellar.

"The Room" clocks in at over five and a half minutes and closes the EP.  Vocally, this song is Fatherland's highlight.  It also goes to show that whether they have one minute or five, Mr. Dream can pack a punch.

Fatherland is the perfect example of how an EP can be just as effective as a full length release.  This short and sweet album displays the band's growth through some unexpected moves, all while avoiding one of those risky gimmicks.

Fatherland is out February 28th on God Mode in both digital and vinyl formats.  For more info on Mr. Dream, including tour dates with Cloud Nothings and SXSW details, look over here.  To download their debut, Trash Hit, go this way.