I have been experiencing the most vivid dreams lately. I wake up and quickly clutch the journal I keep on my nightstand to record what I remember, to later revisit and contemplate the meaning behind, find new ideas within, or just look back at them for giggles. Oftentimes I replay dream sequences in my head without realizing where these images came from, thinking I am remembering a scene from a movie or show, to later remember that these are dreams my subconscious is trying to replay for me and remind me of the ideas I had and the inspiration I have found. Dreams, whether derived from our conscious or unconscious minds, are powerful and fascinating and it is no wonder why they are the subject of some of the most compelling pieces of art. MØL‘s latest release DREAMCRUSH is no exception.

Aptly named, the album explores the highs and hopefulness of having dreams which are sometimes followed by the lows and shattering weight of reality and the grief that follows. While this may sound dark, the music and message here are not depressing as they speak to the notion of seeking out new ideas and paths and finding the place in between where dreams and reality can meet in harmony to bring visions to life. When one dream is crushed, another is formed and eventually something new and beautiful can bloom and come into fruition. DREAMCRUSH moves through this cycle, opening with “DREAM”, which starts with meditative resounding tones before shifting into a very light and airy melody. Screamed vocals are heard before transitioning to clean singing, with lines punctuated with ringing notes adding to the whimsy of the track.

Kim Song Sternkopf’s vocals are at their peak on DREAMCRUSH. Switching between English and his native Danish, harsh and clean, exploring range and full of emotion, they amplify the album and add to the overall tone and themes. The passion behind them is clear. His vocals are especially impressive in “små forlis”, which features this array as well as some post rock influence. The pain and melancholy heard and felt are so strong that the brighter moments of hope offer catharsis and peace.

“A Former Blueprint” is my favorite song on the album, combining so many interesting elements including a more indie rock opening, a more shoegaze-heavy chorus, and a goosebump-inducing build to soaring guitars and almost death metal-sounding vocals. An atmospheric instrumental interlude brings the energy down right after, floating along for just under a minute before moving into the final three tracks of DREAMCRUSH. “Dissonance” continues this comforting feel—a lighter track with quick passages of harsh vocals and picked-up tempos—effortlessly moving between the two sounds. Some stellar guitar leads are also heard here, offering turns to keep listeners on their toes, never knowing what to expect next.

The album closes with “CRUSH,” a track that beautifully sums up the album with catchy guitar melodies; both screamed and clean vocals; airy interludes; and crashing drums. While it ends on the crushing part that sometimes happens when dreams cannot be brought into reality, it remains hopeful and joyous, ready for the cycle to begin again and encouraging us to keep dreaming.

DREAMCRUSH is MØL’s third album ( not including instrumental versions) and marks their return after five years. Their combination of shoegaze, black metal, and alt-rock is ever-present and glows brightly in this release. It is a very fun listen and true to the title—dreamy. Their sound is refined here and I feel as though each of the five band members have moments to shine and be appreciated throughout. My favorites include an amazing guitar solo in “Favour” that I could listen to on repeat, and “Mimic” has a crushing drum solo. Every track is memorable in this way—little pockets of wow laced between sonic melodies and epic rhythms, delicately flowing between two ends and keeping things interesting. Beyond these standout moments, it may be my favorite release from the band so far. Keep on dreaming, and keep on creating!

 -Angela

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DREAMCRUSH is available Jan 30 via Nuclear Blast Records.  For more information on MØL, visit their official Facebook page.