I sort of figured that The Dream would be a bit more accessible. Given the talent level, Maria's rebellious sex appeal, and the ever increasing popularity of female fronted Rock and Metal bands on both radio and TV, any record company would push for something commercial. Undoubtedly, any band would do the same if the opportunity arose. Thus, almost non-existent, save for a few brief appearances, are Maria's awesome crispy shrieks. It takes the Metal out of it a bit, though there are some squarely Metal tunes like "Violet Skies," "Prayers," and "Mechanical Love."

Ultimately, The Dream is a success, proof that In This Moment may be one of the only Metalcore bands to outlive the trend. I don't want to slight the musicians, because they are solid, more than solid. However, there's been a ton of great bands that lacked only one thing, a charismatic and talented front man. Old schooler's Loudness and Grim Reaper come to mind. In This Moment's success lies completely upon the bosom of Maria Brink. "Forever" opens the album with a sexy double track vocal, a beginning to a wild emotive fray of vocally charged tunes which find Maria sounding like an even crazier Fiona Apple, an even more reflective Joan Armatrading, and more Metal than Cristina Scabbia (Lacuna Coil).

written by Alan Gilkeson

Playing time: 42:50