Working in the music industry, and especially as a music blogger, it’s common for me to receive tracks, EPs, or even full albums early for review. Typically, these are sent to me perhaps days, or a week at most, in advance. I’ve had Delta Heavy’s new album, Only In Dreams, for three months. In that time, I’ve probably listened to it nearly once a day in full, if not at least a few tracks, and I’ve come to the conclusion that this album is one of the finest of the year.
Whereas Delta Heavy’s debut album, Paradise Lost in 2016, had no features and was relatively bright in tone and melody, Only In Dreams is a more true “album” in the sense of the word. Collaborations with Everyone You Know, Zeds Dead, Modestep, Muzzy, and more truly elevate the album and give it an extra dose of angst and replayability. There are also a lot of outside influences to be noticed on this album, like a taste of Nero on “Collide” or Pendulum (In Silico era) on “Anarchy.”
The addition of vocalists on Only In Dreams also just adds to the replayability of each song individually. Now, apart from the production, fans will have vocals to latch onto and remember — honestly there’s nothing like the crowd collectively yelling out the same lyrics at a show, vibing with the same energy, knowing you’re hearing your favorite song.
Delta Heavy manages to evolve and grow beyond their first album by leaps and bounds, keeping hold of their raw and pure sound, all while pushing it further. The rock and melodic elements incorporated in Only In Dreams, like in “Here With Me” and “Show Me The Light,” demonstrate an observable growth as artists that’s truly wonderful to see.
From start to finish, the album hardly gives you any time to pause or take a break. It lets you catch your breath occasionally, sure, but never becomes boring or encourages you to walk away and listen to something else. It’s engaging, enthralling, and highly enjoyable.
Only In Dreams from Delta Heavy is out tomorrow on Ram Records, but you can listen to it exclusively today on Your EDM below.
Photo via KS Digital Media
