On "Chapters," The Dear and Departed Prove They are Radio Ready

Hailing from England and currently based in Orange County, Calif., The Dear and Departed merge shimmering, gothic pop with a youthful, punk-tinged energy. The quartet have released their Equal Vision Records debut Chapters, a five-song collection produced by New Found Glory's Chad Gilbert.

The Dear and Departed ease the listener into the record with the soft, delayed guitars in "Matter of Time.” The track builds up gracefully, resulting in a lush chorus led by vocalist Dan Smith. His efforts are silky smooth and emotionally urgent all at once. The ending crescendo, a wall of guitars colliding against an even bigger wall of “whoa” chants, is beautiful.

The sprightly "Did You Hear a Knock?" is charming British pop filled with bouncy energy and an instantly catchy hook. The guitar work of Darren Parkinson and Courtney Miner shine here, as their buttery riffs and clean chords weave together tastefully.

"Tambourine Love" is pure gloom-punk in the verses, bringing Alkaline Trio and AFI to mind. The jumpy track bursts into sunny pop during the chorus, providing another irresistible hook. The song is captivating, and the band proves they are just as adept at writing fast, infectious rock songs as they are at crafting smooth, elegant hooks. "It Looks Like Rain" returns to the mid-tempo British pop feel that dominates the EP, delivering another sing-along friendly chorus that you'll swear you've heard  on the radio.

EP closer "There For The Taking" casts a dark cloud over the listener as Smith lays his consistently memorable melodies over a desolate musical backdrop. The marriage is excellent, resulting in an irresistibly menacing chorus.

There's something extremely familiar sounding about Chapters, and that’s not a bad thing at all. The songs have a well-worn, radio ready feel and the band certainly has the potential to share the same spotlight as their more-established tour buddies AFI and Avenged Sevenfold. Not one chorus will go forgotten on this record. It’s a mark of true songwriting talent that will hopefully shine even brighter on their future releases.  

Rating: 7.5/10

Check Out: "Matter of Time," "Tambourine Love," "There for the Taking"

Recommended if You Like: The Cure, Alkaline Trio, AFI