Year: 2024
Total Time: 33.43
Label: Echozone
IN A DREAM is a German Alternative Post-Punk/Rock/Wave band formed in 2016. In 2019, they released their first full album entitled “No Songs For Lovers”. After 5 years, their second album “Strange Words” was released, and as soon as we received it, we were amazed by the artwork, which is a clear homage to “London Calling” album’s cover by THE CLASH.
This immediately gave a hint about what we should expect music wise, as the band has clear influences from THE CLASH, THE CURE, THE SMITHS (and anything else related to British rock that starts with “The”), a bit of JOY DIVISION (there’s even a cover of “Dead Souls” song, though not very successful…), and some Ska elements.
The vocals of Frank Bottke are not the band’s strong point; they sound indifferent. What stands out though, is some strong riffing by the guitarist Thorsten Wullner, especially in the song “Die Away”, which is the highlight of this album that is generally considered mediocre. The unofficial tribute to “I Fought the Law” song by THE CLASH in “Two of a Kind” song, is also interesting, as the melody is almost identical but in softer tones, with vocals that have a “Cure” vibe. Other interesting tracks include the title track “Strange Words” and the more upbeat “Unleash the Beast”, which will likely appeal to fans of Perkele.
In conclusion, “Strange Words” it’s a pleasant album that feels like a tribute to classic post-punk and rock sounds and bands, without necessarily offering something that makes it stand out. The clean sound, the good production, and detailed attention in the artwork of that CD are positive aspects. However, the cover art copy remains a replica or just a tribute to the old bands.
Rating: 4/10
Reviewer: Christos Chatzichristos
Related Link: IN A DREAM – Bandcamp Page
